Officials from 54 countries to meet in Dubai for OICC conference

This was announced on a press conference today.

Qassim Sultan, Director General of Dubai Municipality, said that the municipality is keen on hosting this key international event in the city, which is a prominent member of the OICC.

"We have been asked to host this significant conference given the reputation of Dubai in successfully conducting high-profile global events including conferences and exhibitions. Besides, the city's fame in rendering distinctive services in line with international standards was also taken into consideration."

Also attending the press conference was Obeid Salem Al Shamsi, Assistant Director General of Dubai Municipality for Administrative and General Services Affairs and chairman of the conference's organising committee, as well as members of the committee.

Sultan added that the OICC conference, which will be held at the Dubai International Convention Centre (DICC), will contribute in a big way in reinforcing the brotherly ties among the member cities and capitals.

"The conference seeks to get the members to work towards preserving the identity and heritage of the Islamic capitals and cities as well as introducing and developing the criteria, systems, and comprehensive urban plans that can serve their progress and prosperity and better their economical, social, cultural and environmental conditions. It will also find common grounds for economic and developmental cooperation," he said.

Dubai Municipality has earlier formed a preparatory committee for the conference to oversee the preparations of the event. Several sub-committees have also been formed to take care of different aspects of organising the conference. The municipality and the OICC Secretariate General have already finalised the conference programme as well as the papers to be presented. Dubai Municipality will present five papers on the city's experience in different fields.

"The organisation is headquartered in the holy city of Makkah and does not involve in any political matters. It has 161 capitals and cities of the 54 member countries of the OIC. It also includes eight observing members from six non-member countries," Mr Sultan said.

"The organisation is comprised of five bodies including the General Conference, the Administrative Board, the Secretariat General, the Organisation Award and the Co-operation Fund. The General Conference consists of the active members and is responsible for laying down the organisation's policy," he said.

Explaining the activities of the organisation Mr Sultan added: "The Administrative Board acts as the executive tool of the organisation and meets annually to follow up and enforce the organisation's recommendations. It consists of the permanent members representing Makkah, holy city of Madina and Jerusalem and 21 members elected by the General Conference every three years."

He noted that the Secretariat General undertakes the technical, financial and administrative matters, and is chaired by the Secretary-General who holds office for three years. The Secretary-General or his deputy represents the organisation before other international bodies.

An exhibition is also organised as part of the conference, showcasing projects of the organisation in the Islamic world as well as achievements of the municipalities of the member cities. It will also exhibit projects that has won the organisation's awards in various categories.