Business leaders, politicians, experts set to gather in Future Capitals World Summit in Abu Dhabi

"Abu Dhabi is set to become one of the region's great future capitals," says Mounir Haidar, CEO of Sorouh, a strategic partner. "Sorouh's landmark developments such as Shams Abu Dhabi and Lulu Island, are planned in close co-operation with the government of Abu Dhabi and in-keeping with its vision for a sustainable future as laid out in Plan Abu Dhabi 2030. At Sorouh, we are committed to creating both a leading capital city, particularly communities in which people want to live."

With its economic and cultural growth, Abu Dhabi is both an appropriate location and a case study for Future Capitals. Plan Abu Dhabi 2030, developed by the Urban Planning Council, will ensure that the emirate's capital city will grow according to the following key principles: environmental and economic sustainability; transport planning; engaging public spaces; and the promotion of Emirati culture.

International delegates to the summit will include: government leaders and prominent city mayors; private sector and multinational chief executives; major investors; urban designers, real-estate developers and architects; cultural and academic stakeholders; energy and environmental experts. Special guests will take part in multimedia forums led by global experts in their fields. Interactive sessions will allow for wide participation and debate and CNBC will broadcast live from some key panel debates.

"The City of Rome is so excited to participate at the Summit because its agenda seeks to discover and share the qualities that will define tomorrow's Future Capitals - those cities that will attract more businesses, residents, visitors, philanthropists, and educational and cultural opportunities - and capital - than their counterparts," says H.E. Gianni Alemanno, Mayor of the City of Rome.

The Intercontinental Hotel in Abu Dhabi will provide a unique setting for the event which will take place from 13 to 15 January 2009.

Sam Hamdan, CEO of Global Leadership Team, says:

"Interaction will be key to the success of this important event. We want to bring participants together to share best practice and innovative ideas, and to create partnerships and collaborations. To that end, we are planning dynamic networking events, and an awards ceremony to honor the achievements of the most innovative professionals worldwide."

"Our goal is to deliver a practical outcome for participants: tangible solutions, as well as useful networks for Future Capital leaders. We hope that this Summit is one step along the road in building not just successful cities, but a better world in which to live," Hamdan adds.