17 April 2026, the world marks a defining moment: the first-ever World Public Transport Day. Initiated by the International Association of Public Transport (UITP), this day is more than a symbolic entry on the calendar. It is a global recognition that the way we move shapes the way we live, work, and thrive.

As a global leader in shared mobility, Keolis Group embraces the spirit of “One Day. Millions of Journeys” to celebrate the vital role public transport plays in our daily lives. Operating across four continents, our expertise spans a diverse spectrum of modes, from cutting-edge automated metros, tramways and trains to essential sea shuttles, autonomous vehicles and healthcare transport. This extensive international footprint provides us with a unique vantage point: we see public transport as the true backbone of the sustainable city, where success is driven by a “Think Global, Act Local” philosophy.

At a time when urban populations are expanding at an unprecedented pace, mobility is no longer just about transit; it is about enabling economic opportunity and social equity. Youenn Dupuis, CEO Middle East and Eastern Asia at Keolis, notes:

“The inaugural World Public Transport Day highlights our collective responsibility to design mobility that serves people first. At Keolis, our international expertise allows us to take the best innovations from around the world and tailor them to the specific needs of the communities we serve. Our goal is to make every journey a seamless, human-centered experience.”

Innovation with Purpose

Innovation is the engine of our global operations. By leveraging data-driven platforms and smart mobility solutions across our networks worldwide, we enable real-time decision-making that improves reliability and enhances the passenger experience. However, at Keolis, innovation is never for its own sake. It is purposeful, designed to make journeys simpler, safer, and more accessible for everyone, from daily commuters to international visitors.

Equally critical is our commitment to the planet. By encouraging a shift away from private vehicles toward shared, green mobility, we are tackling the defining challenge of our time: climate change. Every shared journey on a Keolis-operated network is a tangible step toward reducing carbon footprints and improving urban air quality.

“Public transport is the most powerful tool we have to build the resilient, sustainable cities of tomorrow. As we mark the first World Public Transport Day, we reaffirm our commitment to leading the transition toward greener mobility. Every shared journey is a collective step toward reducing our environmental footprint and enhancing the livability of our urban spaces.” added Youenn Dupuis, CEO Middle East and Eastern Asia at Keolis.

The Human Element Behind the Network

While we pride ourselves on technological excellence, the heart of Keolis is our people. Behind every successful journey lies the expertise of thousands of professionals, drivers, engineers, technicians, and customer service teams, who ensure safety and efficiency around the clock. Their dedication is the invisible force that keeps the world’s most dynamic cities moving.

In the Middle East and beyond, our evolution reflects a broader commitment to building livable, resilient cities. This requires deep collaboration between public authorities and private operators, fueled by a shared passion for excellence.

The first World Public Transport Day is both a celebration and a call to action. It challenges us to rethink how we move and to recognize mobility as the foundation of our collective future. Investing in public transport is an investment in stronger communities and more resilient economies.

As the world continues to urbanize, Keolis remains dedicated to shaping that growth, not just by moving people, but by improving the quality of life for millions, one journey at a time.

• Field service optimization reducing travel distance by an average of 37%, delivering measurable efficiency gains and supporting emissions reduction efforts, according to IFS field service data
• AI-driven scheduling can support reductions in Scope 2 emissions by up to 47.6% by aligning production with periods of lower grid carbon intensity
• Predictive maintenance is extending asset life, reducing embodied carbon, and preventing energy waste from equipment failures

“We’re seeing Industrial AI fundamentally change how organizations approach sustainability,” said Sophie Graham, Chief Sustainability Officer at IFS. “Our customers are using AI to optimize everything from field service routes to production scheduling, and the results are tangible: less waste, lower emissions, and stronger operational performance. At IFS, we’re committed to deploying AI solutions that help our customers achieve their sustainability goals while building more resilient, competitive operations.”

“AI holds transformative potential for industrial and hard-to-abate sectors, guiding us towards net zero outcomes with innovative precision. However, as AI-driven solutions illuminate our path, we must also manage their energy demand responsibly. Harnessing this dual opportunity to lead with sustainability and efficiency will be at the forefront of industry evolution,” said Leigh Bates, Partner at PwC.

Three Pathways to Sustainability Impact
The report identifies three key ways industrial AI intersects with sustainability. First, it enables industrial organizations to “do more with less” by optimizing resource use and reducing waste across operations. Second, it allows companies to leverage data for insights, creating traceable, auditable information that verifies sustainability results and supports decision-making. Third, it delivers business model transformation by enabling outcome-based and circular economy models through digital twins and AI-driven decision analytics platforms that help organizations test long-term investment portfolios against climate scenarios.

Addressing the AI Energy Paradox
While acknowledging that AI adoption comes with increased energy demand, the report emphasizes the net positive impact when responsibly deployed. According to research from the Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment and Systemiq, advancements in AI in power, transport, and food consumption could reduce global greenhouse gas emissions by 3.2 to 5.4 billion tonnes of carbon-dioxide-equivalent annually by 2035.

The report calls for a balanced approach that includes renewable energy sourcing, carbon-aware scheduling, edge computing, and strong governance over data quality and validation to ensure AI’s energy use doesn’t erode the gains it delivers.

A critical finding highlighted in the report is Industrial AI’s unique role in creating traceable, auditable data across operations. This capability addresses the growing demand for measurable, verifiable decarbonization progress from regulators, investors, and customers seeking to decarbonize their value chains.

The report concludes that organizations must start with measurable use cases like predictive maintenance, scheduling optimization, and process control that deliver fast returns. Success requires investing in data readiness to ensure clean, connected data supports scalability, while embedding trust early through governance, secure infrastructure, and sustainable compute practices. Industrial AI is actively transforming operations today. The organizations embracing it first will lead the next era of sustainable industry.

The full report, “The Intelligence Behind Sustainability: Industrial AI’s Critical Role in Decarbonization,” is available for download here.

This year, WETEX is expanding its focus on investments in drones, smart grids and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the security and sustainability of energy and water, advance the process of digital transformation and develop resilient infrastructure.

“Belgium is honoured to be represented by six forward-thinking companies at WETEX, showcasing our shared commitment with the United Arab Emirates to advancing sustainability, innovation and smart city solutions. This presence reflects the strength of Belgian expertise in diverse key sectors such as green hydrogen, water management and medical waste treatment, and underscores our desire to foster closer co-operation in building a more sustainable future together,” said HE Antoine Delcourt, Ambassador of Belgium to the UAE.

HE Angelica Schempp, Consul General of Switzerland in Dubai, said: “Swiss companies present at WETEX 2025 reflect our country’s pioneering spirit and deep expertise in water management, energy efficiency, waste treatment and the circular economy. Their solutions have a successful track record in the Middle East and are built to last, making them a natural fit for the UAE’s long-term vision of sustainable development. WETEX provides an ideal platform for them to showcase their products and engage with Dubai’s leadership in digital transformation and AI. Together, our two countries can deliver impactful solutions that shape a more sustainable future.”

Helmut von Struve, CEO of Siemens in the UAE and the Middle East, said the best technologies make lives easier, production more efficient and operations more sustainable.

“Technologies like AI do exactly this, and when used in combination with existing digital technologies and infrastructures, AI can supercharge productivity and innovation, as well as accelerate sustainability transformation. We’re proud to be playing our part, working hand-in-hand with governments, businesses and communities to co-create the technologies and solutions that will drive economic and sustainable progress,” said von Struve.

Marwan Zeineddine, Managing Director of SAP UAE, said AI is a key enabler of sustainable innovation.

“At SAP, we are committed to supporting the UAE’s vision by helping organisations transform data into meaningful action. Through solutions such as SAP Business AI, SAP Business Data Cloud and SAP Sustainability Control Tower, we enable businesses to enhance efficiency, minimise environmental impact and deliver more intelligent services. These efforts support the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031,” said Zeineddine.

Ahmad Shafik, Senior Vice President at Hitachi Energy UAE, reaffirmed his company’s commitment to accelerating the energy transition through innovation, collaboration and sustainable solutions.

“At Hitachi Energy, we are proud to support the region’s vision for a greener future by enabling resilient and digital energy systems that empower communities and industries alike. WETEX presents a unique platform for our organisation to showcase our latest technologies – transformers, high-voltage grid automation and grid integration – from our different business units, with a focus on digitisation, decarbonisation and grid modernisation. WETEX has become a pivotal event in global dialogue for sustainability by bringing together experts, innovators and policymakers around the world. Our organisation is heavily investing in AI research and development to stay ahead of these trends and leverage all these technologies to enhance our sustainability efforts,” said Shafik.

Abdulkarim Al Maazmi, Acting CEO of Dragon Oil, said the UAE “is taking pioneering steps in the field of AI across various industries, and the energy sector is no exception”.

“At Dragon Oil, we are fully aligned with this national vision and are diligently working to enhance our capabilities in leveraging AI applications for energy production and sustainability. Our participation in this year’s edition of WETEX reflects our ongoing commitment to exploring innovative technologies, exchanging knowledge and expertise, and supporting the UAE’s smart transformation and sustainable development journey. As part of its digital transformation strategy, Dragon Oil has implemented a range of AI-powered initiatives across its operations in Turkmenistan, Iraq and Egypt,” said Al Maazmi.

“In Turkmenistan, advanced machine learning algorithms are being used to enhance offshore field productivity and provide real-time geological data analysis. In Iraq, AI models have significantly contributed to predicting equipment failures and minimising operational losses. Meanwhile, in Egypt, AI-driven analytics tools have been integrated to monitor environmental performance and emissions, ensuring full compliance with both local and international environmental standards. Through its presence at WETEX 2025, Dragon Oil aims to showcase its digital transformation efforts and smart solutions that enhance operational efficiency and reduce carbon footprint, in alignment with national sustainability goals,” Al Maazmi added.

DRONES AND ROBOTS

FEDS Group

UAE-based FEDS Group is showcasing advanced drone solutions that replace high-risk traditional methods, significantly reducing operational costs and enhancing safety. The company’s solutions proactively manage entire systems – from pipelines and power grids to renewable energy sites – optimising performance and longevity. Delivering critical aerial intelligence, FEDS turns complex data into clear, actionable intelligence, thereby enabling faster, smarter decisions across major infrastructure and energy projects.

“The single biggest risk to our sustainable future isn’t a lack of ambition; it’s a lack of certainty. Our drone solutions provide that certainty, giving decision makers the hard data needed to guarantee their green assets are performing at their peak,” said Rabih bou Rached, founder and CEO of the FEDS Group.

Liwal International

Liwal International, based in Dubai, will launch at WETEX its LP1 Robot Lift and Deployment Platform used to lift, transport and deploy Liwal Solar Cleaning Robot to the high installed solar panels up to 4 meters. LP1 is fully developed and made in Dubai by Liwal.

Engineer Khushal Khan Liwal, Business Development Director at Liwal International, said: “We are glad to launch our innovations and Made in Dubai platform at WETEX to highlight our latest technologies in front of thousands of specialised companies that support energy transition and the adaptation of state-of-the-art technologies to promote clean and renewable energy.”

SYNCRETISE

SYNCRETISE is unveiling PRIMUS, its advanced all-weather Passive Radar that enhances airspace and urban security by detecting drones and birds without emitting signals. This AI-enhanced, zero-emission system is ideal for populated areas and integrates easily with air traffic control. PRIMUS identifies even stealth drones, including those undetectable by RF systems, and fibre-optic controlled drones.

CYBER SECURITY, DATA AND AI APPLICATIONS SECURITY

Emerson

Emerson, a global leader in industrial automation, is showcasing solutions that leverage the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), digital twinning, edge computing and cloud technologies to drive digital transformation, enhance operations, strengthen cyber security and equip the workforce with the data and capabilities they need. Emerson’s innovations streamline the management of multiple field-installed valve actuators, eliminating the need to interact with each device individually. The company’s DCMlink software wirelessly connects Bettis electric and electro-hydraulic actuators to enterprise or plant-level systems, while its Controlinc Network Master Station enables centralised control of up to 250 valve actuators.

Fortinet

Fortinet showcases solutions that ensure maximum cyber security in real time against emerging threats, alongside its innovations that defend AI applications, systems and models. The company also offers solutions dedicated to preventing LLM data leaks related to machine learning and deep learning.

Nvitech Security Systems and Equipment Trading LLC

Nvitech is unveiling a broad range of commercial and industrial IT services, including building automation, data storage and management, network infrastructure, life safety and disaster recovery systems, IT project management and computer-aided facility management (CAFM).

SMART GRIDS

ZENNER Middle East

ZENNER Middle East is presenting its meter-based innovations under the Metering as a Service (MaaS) model that gives utilities and clients greater financial flexibility through an operating expenses model-driven approach. The company will also unveil its advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) connectivity solutions, supporting utilities with the planning, design, installation, management and operation of smart metering projects.

“WETEX gives us the perfect opportunity to demonstrate how our service-based models and connectivity solutions can redefine utility management in the Middle East,” said Hans Altmann, Managing Director of ZENNER Middle East.

Engelmann

Engelmann is offering its precision thermal energy solutions designed to optimise performance, reduce energy consumption and waste, and support sustainability and fair billing across the district cooling, HVAC and industrial sectors in the Middle East and Asia. The company is presenting an integrated range of high-accuracy BTU meters with diverse communication capabilities, including IoT-enabled monitoring and AMR/AMI systems. Engelmann will also highlight its smart thermal energy monitoring platform for real-time analytics and proactive energy management, alongside its end-to-end AMI Solutions for seamless integration with utility billing and automation platforms.

QEA Tech

QEA Tech will unveil its AI and drone software designed to decarbonise building envelopes, leading to energy savings of up to 40%.

Dicode

Dicode is exhibiting advanced solutions to support the digital transformation of gas utilities, ensuring a seamless experience for all stakeholders – from gas companies to building owners and residents. From smart meter deployment to real-time data and transparent billing, the company provides integrated services. Dicode is shining the spotlight on a secure platform that links meters to the cloud, turning raw usage data into actionable insights that support supply monitoring, leak detection and billing management through a digital dashboard.

Baylan

Baylan is showcasing smart electricity and water meters that rely on automated meter reading (AMR) remote reading systems for water, as well as mobile AMR systems that allow meters to be read via handheld or vehicle-based computer systems. The readings can be transferred and stored locally within the company or municipality, enhancing operational efficiency and data accessibility.  

Greenvironment Environmental Engineering Services LLC

Greenvironment is highlighting its technologies and devices that enhance round-the-clock freshwater, energy and air quality management – from source to consumption. The company is showcasing its real-time smart sensors, digital twin simulations for asset management, and machine learning/AI technologies.

Lansen Systems AB

Lansen Systems AB is showcasing its complete range of OMS-compatible wireless M-Bus devices that streamline data collection and boost the efficiency and sustainability of building management. The company is also highlighting advanced sub-meters that improve indoor air quality by enhancing ventilation and optimising control of carbon dioxide levels.

KALKI.IO

KALKI.IO will present its data acquisition hub that helps utilities to seamlessly connect with millions of field sensors, devices and controllers. The platform enables centralised monitoring, control, asset management and analytics by integrating with operational technology systems.

Apator Powogaz

Apator Powogaz will unveil its advanced devices and systems for managing electricity, water, heat and gas networks. Highlights include Ultrimis NEO, an eco-friendly ultrasonic water meter powered by W-Sonic Tech, offering secure data and temperature readings via wireless MBUS, long range wide area networks and near-field communications.  Apator Powogaz will also showcase its ultrasonic Ultrimis MBUS water meter, equipped with wired and wireless communication for enhanced readings.

Masibus Automation And Instrumentation

As an industrial automation solution provider, Masibus Automation And Instrumentation is shining the spotlight on its advanced solar solutions for the pharmaceutical, water, food and beverage, power plant, metal and oil & gas industries.

SenseMi

SenseMi is presenting its smart electricity, water and gas meters that can be easily integrated into advanced communication technologies to ensure efficient and accurate consumption monitoring.

Shanghai Panda Machinery (Group) Co, Ltd

Shanghai Panda Machinery is showcasing smart water meters, alongside a comprehensive range of products that span the entire operational lifecycle – from data collection to application. The company’s products on display include ultrasonic water meters, ultrasonic and electromagnetic flow meters, ultrasonic heat meters and open-channel flow meters.

Set between the Kalba Mountains, Nomad is conceived as a low-impact retreat that blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment, powered by a hybrid energy system that includes solar panels and high-quality natural materials It forms part of Shurooq’s wider strategy to expand Sharjah’s hospitality offering through destinations that safeguard biodiversity while creating authentic visitor experiences.

“Sharjah has placed sustainability at the heart of its tourism strategy, and Nomad reflects this vision by demonstrating how development and environmental preservation can coexist,” said a Ahmed  Ben Zaied, Sharjah Collection General Manager. “By embedding the project within the Sharjah Collection portfolio, we are reinforcing the emirate’s reputation as a destination where culture, nature, and innovation meet.”

For DAW, the mandate has gone beyond conventional infrastructure. The company has executed access roads designed for challenging terrain, developed water and sewerage networks, and delivered foundations and service systems tailored to the project’s long-term operational needs. Breakwater structures, water channels, and renewable-ready utilities have been implemented to ensure the site functions independently from conventional networks.

Central to this approach is the implementation of polymer resin concrete (PRC), an advanced material that delivers superior durability and reduced maintenance requirements while minimizing environmental impact. This innovation, together with photovoltaic-ready steel structures and advanced water and waste management systems, demonstrates DAW’s commitment to translating Shurooq’s vision into sustainable, high-performing infrastructure.

“Nomad presented unique geographic and environmental challenges, but also an opportunity to demonstrate how infrastructure can serve both sustainability and performance,” said Tarek Musbah Abdul Rahman, General Manager of DAW. “Our role was to ensure that every stage of delivery supports Shurooq’s eco-tourism standards while providing long-term durability and resilience in a sensitive natural setting.”

By aligning advanced engineering practices with Sharjah’s destination strategy, DAW is proud to contribute to one of the emirate’s most forward-looking tourism projects and to set a new benchmark for environmentally responsible infrastructure in the region.