JCDecaux announced that H.E. Falah Al Ahbabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Urban Planning and Municipalities (DPM) signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Jean-Charles Decaux, Chairman of the Executive Board and Co-CEO of JCDecaux, in the presence of the French Ambassador to the UAE, H.E. Mr. Ludovic Pouille. The collaboration between DPM and JCDecaux focuses on Research and Development for the delivery of urban services that contribute towards a sustainable urban environment in Abu Dhabi to enhance the quality of life of citizens and residents alike. The MoU establishes a framework for DPM and JCDecaux to work closely together to enhance the urban landscape in Abu Dhabi applying innovative technology to design smart and sustainable street furniture that meets the needs of an ever-more connected and mobile population, while creating a strong visual identity for the city that reinforces its cultural value and heritage. The signing of the MoU echoes the recent announcement by UN-Habitat of Abu Dhabi hosting of the 10th edition of the World Urban Forum in February, the first edition of the WUF to be held in the Arab region. WUF operates as an open-ended think tank for the future of cities, providing a platform for multi-stakeholder dialogue, collaboration, and public-private collaboration. The agreement also feeds into the Emirate's effort to foster innovation by supporting and developing collaboration with the private sector and civil society in the scope of Public-Private-People Partnerships in line with the Government's vision for continuing to develop a sustainable and diversified economy.