Abu Dhabi unveiled LIVEX 2026 this Friday.
Senior government leaders gathered at the iconic Zayed National Museum for a launch press conference that introduced the emirate’s first Livability and Investment Exhibition. The event brought together senior officials from across Abu Dhabi to discuss a shift from investment‑led growth to livability‑led development. The launch was powered by the Department of Municipalities and Transport, underscoring the whole‑of‑government approach to livability.
His Excellency Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, delivered the keynote address. He outlined a strategic roadmap that links quality of life with economic strength and highlighted the role of integrated, people‑first urban planning in boosting long‑term competitiveness. Al Shorafa emphasized that decades of infrastructure investment have established Abu Dhabi as the most livable city in the Middle East and Africa, a claim he linked to the emirate’s ability to attract international capital.
Abu Dhabi was built on the belief that a city’s quality of life and economic strength must advance together. Decades of investment in infrastructure, services and communities across the emirate have made that belief a reality, establishing Abu Dhabi as the most livable city in the Middle East and Africa, and one of the world’s most sought after destinations for international capital.
— Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman, Department of Municipalities and Transport
LIVEX 2026 Exhibition Details
The three‑day exhibition runs from September 29 to October 1 at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. Organisers expect more than 20,000 attendees, drawing policymakers, institutional investors, urban planners, innovators and developers from over 50 countries. The event’s scale and international reach aim to showcase Abu Dhabi’s whole‑of‑government livability story to the world.
LIVEX 2026 will serve as a dedicated platform where livability, infrastructure and investment intersect. By showcasing projects and ideas that prioritize people‑centred design, the exhibition aims to influence where long‑term capital is deployed across the globe. By aligning livability with investment decisions, the platform seeks to guide future capital flows toward projects that enhance quality of life.
Government Vision for Livable Cities
Eight key Abu Dhabi government departments presented a track record that spans built and social infrastructure, covering sectors such as livability, economy, healthcare, education, culture and energy. The showcase underscored a model built around quality of life, planned progress and long‑term confidence. The presentation highlighted progress across health, education, culture and energy, reinforcing the emirate’s comprehensive approach to sustainable urban growth.
Two high‑level panel discussions followed the keynote. The first session, titled “People First: The Human Foundations of Abu Dhabi’s Livability,” featured His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak among other senior officials, exploring how culture, community, education, energy, belonging and wellbeing shape a livable city. The second panel examined the economic and infrastructure foundations that support the livability agenda, reinforcing the integrated strategy presented by the government.
Frequently asked questions
What is LIVEX 2026 in Abu Dhabi?
LIVEX 2026 is Abu Dhabi's inaugural livability and investment exhibition, running from September 29 to October 1 at ADNEC Centre, showcasing the emirate’s people‑first urban model.
Where is LIVEX 2026 being held?
LIVEX 2026 is being held at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi from September 29 to October 1.
How many countries are expected to attend LIVEX 2026?
Over 20,000 attendees from more than 50 countries are expected to take part in LIVEX 2026.
What is Abu Dhabi's ranking in livability in the Middle East and Africa?
According to His Excellency Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Abu Dhabi is considered the most livable city in the Middle East and Africa.
When is LIVEX 2026 taking place?
LIVEX 2026 takes place from September 29 to October 1.
