Today's Edition
AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI/WAM (ABU DHABI)
Participating in ADSW 2026, the Emirates Council for Balanced Development (ECBD) is showcasing its portfolio of national development programmes aimed at enhancing quality of life in Emirati villages and promoting inclusive, balanced growth in rural areas.
The Council’s pavilion highlights its economic, social, cultural and tourism initiatives, including rural development projects, support for small and medium-sized enterprises in villages, and the empowerment of local industries and rural products, alongside initiatives promoting sustainability and the responsible use of local resources.
Speaking to Aletihad, Abdulla Al Kaabi, Head of Media and Government Communications at the Council, said ADSW provides a key platform to demonstrate how sustainability can be aligned with progress in rural development. He added that preserving cultural heritage alongside modern transformation is another central focus of the pavilion.
ECBD seeks to transform rural areas into sustainable economic and tourism destinations by developing integrated facilities that generate new opportunities for residents. Its participation underscores the Council’s commitment to supporting the UAE’s sustainable development goals by improving community services and empowering rural families across all emirates.
Al Kaabi noted that the pavilion also showcases the “Emirates Villages” initiative and its support for productive families, in addition to featuring agricultural and cultural products that reflect the diversity of local heritage.
The pavilion offers an interactive experience through smart display platforms and interactive screens presenting live models of existing projects and future development plans. It also includes a balanced development map, successful examples of emerging producers and productive families, and projects with sustainable economic and social impact.
