With the aim of strengthening dialogue and cooperation among local governments and key stakeholders across the Middle East, West Asia, and North Africa, UCLG-MEWA participated in the 20th General Conference of the Arab Towns Organization (ATO), hosted by Dhofar Municipality on 7–8 September 2026. The two-day gathering brought together local government leaders, municipal representatives, and regional stakeholders, providing an important platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and sharing experiences and best practices.
The delegation of the United Cities and Local Governments Middle East and West Asia Section (UCLG-MEWA), comprised of Dr. Mehmet Duman, Secretary General; Mr. Mohamad Saadie, Honorary President; and Amir Lütfioğlu, Communications Officer,
First Day: Scientific Sessions on Cybersecurity and Smart Cities
On the first day of the program, the UCLG-MEWA delegation took part in the scientific sessions in Dhofar, which brought together local government representatives and experts to exchange knowledge and discuss key challenges and opportunities facing cities across the region.
The sessions highlighted the growing importance of strengthening cybersecurity systems within municipalities, particularly as cities accelerate their digital transformation. Discussions also emphasized the need to advance smart, sustainable, and resilient cities, with digital governance and cybersecurity becoming increasingly important components of effective local administration.
UCLG-MEWA’s participation reflected its continued commitment to supporting municipalities across the Middle East and West Asia through knowledge exchange, international cooperation, and practical approaches to digital transformation and urban development.
Second Day: 20th ATO General Conference
On the second day, the UCLG-MEWA delegation participated in the 20th General Conference of the Arab Towns Organization, hosted by Dhofar Municipality. The Assembly brought together local government leaders and representatives from the Middle East, West Asia, and North Africa, providing an important platform to strengthen regional cooperation and exchange experiences.
UCLG-MEWA’s participation aimed to further strengthen the relationship between UCLG-MEWA and the Arab Towns Organization, build stronger institutional bridges, bring initiatives together, and explore joint efforts that can provide greater support and benefit to cities across the region.
Third Day: Cooperation with Dhofar Municipality
UCLG-MEWA delegation also paid an official visit to Dhofar Municipality, where it was welcomed by Mr. Munir bin Awad Bukair Al-Jadyani, Director General of Health Affairs at the Municipality.
During the visit, the delegation toured the Municipality’s new building and discussed potential areas of collaboration between UCLG-MEWA and Dhofar Municipality, focusing on strengthening institutional cooperation and creating opportunities for future joint initiatives. Besides discussing the request of the Dhofar Municipality to host UCLG-MEWA’s Meeting in 2027.
The three-day program in Dhofar underscored the importance of regional solidarity, knowledge exchange, and stronger cooperation among local governments and city networks. UCLG-MEWA looks forward to building on these engagements and developing further partnerships that contribute to more inclusive, resilient, smart, sustainable, and prosperous cities across the region.
