India's urban diversity presents sustainable development opportunities

Nadia Verjee, executive director of Expo City Dubai, highlighted the diversity of India's cities during the Raisina Dialogue in Delhi. She spoke about the potential for cooperation between India and the UAE in sustainable urban development. Verjee described Dubai's challenges such as population growth, affordable housing shortages, and air pollution. She emphasized Expo City Dubai as an “urban lab” for testing solutions, showcasing efforts made during and after the World Expo 2020. The Expo City project, which cost over $8 billion, aims to integrate into Dubai's fabric. Verjee noted that it will eventually host residents and is connected to major transport corridors. She stressed sustainability and community engagement as key strategies for achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. In terms of worker welfare, Dubai has raised standards to protect the rights of blue-collar workers. Verjee mentioned initiatives to ensure health and safety for workers who built Expo City. However, challenges remain, as some aspects fall under private sector control. Affordable housing is another issue. Although Expo City itself does not provide affordable housing, nearby developments are in place. Verjee acknowledged the commuting challenges faced by workers living outside Dubai. Verjee also compared Expo City to Saudi Arabia’s Neom project, noting that they are different in purpose and scale. She highlighted the need for best practices and frameworks as new cities develop. She concluded by urging that Indian cities have much to showcase globally, especially their urbanization and cultural diversity, which should be highlighted on international platforms.