Abu Dhabi: Masdar City, a hub for innovation and sustainability in Abu Dhabi, and the Department of Community Development (DCD), the regulatory body of the social sector in the emirate, today announced a first-of-its-kind partnership at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aims to improve community well-being and develop a sustainable and inclusive environment, with a focus on supporting social innovation. This agreement outlines a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for Abu Dhabi residents. Key initiatives include developing accessible and sustainable sports facilities for all ages and abilities, providing public spaces for non-profit organisations to host events like charity drives and awareness campaigns, and bolstering volunteerism and innovation to address social challenges through sustainable projects.
Masdar City Free Zone will support this partnership by providing an inclusive work environment and innovative incentives to attract start-ups and social initiatives. Mohammed Helal Al Balooshi, Executive Director of the Community Engagement and Sports Sector at the Department of Community Development, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, emphasizing its significance beyond a mere agreement. He highlighted the shared commitment to implementing sustainable projects that foster community engagement and support social innovation, with initiatives including sports amenities, workspaces for the Third Sector, community awareness programmes, and volunteering initiatives.
Mohammed Al Breiki, Executive Director of Sustainable Development at Masdar City, commented on the significance of the agreement signed during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, emphasizing Masdar City's commitment to innovative solutions that directly enhance the quality of life for Abu Dhabi residents. This partnership strengthens Masdar City's position as a global hub for social sustainability and innovation.
This collaboration supports Abu Dhabi's vision to strengthen cross-sector integration and achieve a balance between social and environmental sustainability. It also aligns with the UAE Net Zero 2050 Strategy, elevating Abu Dhabi's position as a global model in adopting sustainable practices.