The UAE emphasizes the need to enhance efforts in implementing the GCC joint municipal action plan for 2024-2030

The 27th Meeting of the Committee of Ministers responsible for Municipal Affairs in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries was a resounding success, with Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, leading the charge for stronger collaboration and implementation of the GCC Joint Municipal Action Plan 2024-2030.

The meeting, held in Doha, Qatar and chaired by His Excellency Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah Al Attiya, Minister of Municipality of Qatar, brought together Ministers responsible for Municipal Affairs from various GCC countries to discuss and strategize on key issues related to municipal work.

Her Excellency Dr. Al Dahak emphasized the crucial role played by municipalities in the GCC countries across various domains and commended the Secretariat General of the Gulf Cooperation Council for facilitating collaborative efforts among member states. She expressed confidence in the ongoing cooperation and urged the implementation of initiatives outlined in the GCC Joint Municipal Action Plan 2024-2030 in the years to come.

Dr. Al Dahak highlighted the challenges faced by the world today and stressed the importance of practical solutions in municipal operations to enhance the wellbeing of communities and foster sustainable development. She emphasized the need for comprehensive, economically, socially, and environmentally integrated systems to achieve these goals.

In the UAE, all municipalities work closely together to synchronize collective efforts and streamline progress for successful execution of projects. This commitment aligns with the broader Gulf municipal framework aimed at fulfilling the aspirations of the people and communities in the region.

The meeting covered various topics related to municipal work, including developing legislation and municipal control mechanisms, with active participation from the UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. Discussions also revolved around implementing decisions made by the GCC Supreme Council regarding strategic urban planning, the Gulf Building Code, and monitoring the execution of prior decisions related to municipal affairs.

Several documents were endorsed during the meeting, including guides for the use of solar panels in buildings, procedures for towing and seizing abandoned vehicles, and requirements for public health pest control facilities in the GCC countries. These guides were prepared in collaboration with local-level municipalities and stakeholders from other GCC countries.

The meeting also confirmed dates for significant events such as the Gulf Municipal Week in Kuwait in 2025, the Gulf Municipal Works Conference in 2026, and the sixth session of the GCC Municipal Award 2025-2026, focusing on ‘Best Practices in Sustainable Urban Planting’.

Overall, the 27th Meeting of the Committee of Ministers responsible for Municipal Affairs in the GCC countries was a productive gathering that underscored the commitment of the GCC states to enhancing municipal operations and fostering sustainable communities for the betterment of all.