Abu Dhabi summit to spotlight smart, sustainable infrastructure for a future-ready MENA The second edition of the Forbes Middle East Building the Future Summit 2026 will take place in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, June 23, and Wednesday, June 24, under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure. The summit will bring together approximately 3,000 decision-makers, business leaders, and experts to discuss the future of urban development and sustainable infrastructure across the Middle East and North Africa. Organised in partnership with One Development, the summit will showcase the latest trends and technologies shaping the future of infrastructure and urban development, with a particular focus on smart cities, sustainable planning, and emerging investment opportunities across the region. Get updated faster and for FREE: Download the Gulf News app now - simply click here. It will also highlight the role of infrastructure in supporting economic growth and sustainability, while exploring the integration of energy, mobility, housing, water, artificial intelligence, and data centers within a comprehensive ecosystem that supports long-term development. Summit sessions will address a wide range of topics related to the future of infrastructure, including project financing, smart technologies, futuristic architectural designs, and the development of inclusive, people-centered communities. Discussions will also focus on enhancing the UAE’s competitiveness and strengthening its global position in this vital sector, as well as fostering strategic collaboration between government entities and private-sector organizations to accelerate infrastructure development. Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, said: “The future of energy and infrastructure will be shaped by the integration of sustainability, innovation, and advanced technologies. The UAE continues to adopt a forward-looking approach that combines clean energy, digital transformation, and resilient infrastructure to support economic growth and enhance quality of life.” He added: “Through collaboration between