Jack Dangermond, founder of Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI), visits DMA

Abu Dhabi, 21 November 2009: Department of Municipal Affairs (DMA) is exploring the world's best Geographic Information System (GIS) Software to create solutions for managing data structure within the organisation and across its projects.  Jack Dangermond, Founder and President of Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI), visited the DMA to meet with H.E. Engineer Ahmed Al-Shareef, Undersecretary of the Department of Municipal Affairs, DMA's executive directors and specialists in this field. He discussed with DMA the latest technologies of geographical data systems that can be useful for DMA to integrate all its data across the entire municipal system and its initiatives. 

The new technology, if adopted, will build the complete base of geographical data infrastructure, which includes all information related to developing the emirate's infrastructure. It can be applied to new and existing projects such as roads, buildings, tunnels, bridges, pipelines and electrical applications. 

Jack Dangermond presented the latest developments in the field of information systems in terms of technology and software applications and the benefits of these for the municipal system to the Under Secretary and Executive Directors of DMA. Focus was given on strategic and regional planning as well as urban and environmental development.

Expressing his admiration for DMA and Abu Dhabi, Jack Dangermond, comments, "It is great to see that Abu Dhabi and its leadership is progressive and understands the significance of information technology and geographic data systems technology in the development of the nation. The emirate's initiatives will bring Abu Dhabi to the forefront in this area both locally and globally."

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About Department of Municipal Affairs:
The Department of Municipal Affairs (DMA) commenced operations in May 2007, following the Abu Dhabi Executive Council's decision to integrate the Emirate's municipal system. As a new government entity, the Department of Municipal Affairs was created to lead, coordinate and oversee three municipalities in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the Western Region.  The DMA has a regulatory role while the service delivery and operations are at the municipality level.

On the 5th of May 2008, the Department of Municipal Affairs along with the Abu Dhabi Municipality, Al Ain Municipality and Western Region Municipality embarked upon a new municipal services journey, with the signing of the historic Municipal Charter which aligns the DMA and three municipalities towards greater collaboration and cooperation.

For further information, please contact:
Department of Municipal Affairs 
Mrs. Amal Al Jarwan
Tel: 971-2-4030311
Email: media@dma.abudhabi.ae

Impact Porter Novelli
Sarika Aidasani
Tel:  971-2-4030409
Email: s.aidasani@ipn.ae   

© Press Release 2009