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    Ummer Sahib

    City Planner and Smart City Technologist

    Professional Background

    Ummer Sahib is a highly respected City Planner and Technologist with an extensive background of over 30 years in geospatial technology and the development of innovative solutions for urban planning. His passion for integrating technology with urban development has positioned him as a leading figure in his field, where he has been instrumental in driving innovative city planning initiatives across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa. As the Executive Director at Informap Technology Center in Sharjah, Mr. Sahib focuses on future technologies and application development, particularly in GPS-enabled location services, showcasing his leadership in the industry.

    Mr. Sahib began his illustrious career in GIS software development with a project for the Department of Electronics, Government of India, where he honed his expertise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Open Source web mapping applications, navigation data production, and Geo-analytics. He has a notable specialization in perfecting a virtual addressing system known as the Geo Reference Locator (GRL) for the UAE, which highlights his innovative approach to urban planning solutions. His role as a technological innovator is further evidenced by his enthusiastic contributions to integrating the Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data, and cloud technologies into an Urban Operating System, aimed at realizing the vision of smart cities worldwide.

    Education and Achievements

    In 1985, Mr. Sahib earned his Master’s Degree in City Planning from the prestigious School of Planning and Architecture, CEPT University in Ahmedabad, India, graduating with first-class honors. His educational background laid a strong foundation for his subsequent career achievements, fostering a relentless pursuit of knowledge and professional excellence. For more than three decades, he has continuously contributed to the field of urban planning, earning memberships in esteemed organizations such as the Institute of Town Planners (ITPI) India, where he has been an Associate member since 1986, as well as being recognized as a Fellow of the Institute of Directors (IOD).

    Mr. Sahib is also a skilled author and has co-authored significant publications in the realm of E-Governance for Smart Cities, published by Springer in January 2015, and E-Democracy for Smart Cities in 2017. His work is influential in guiding discussions and advancements in smart urban governance solutions.

    His thought leadership has led him to present at numerous prestigious conferences, including being a panel member at the 4th GCC Municipalities & Smart Cities Conference and serving as a speaker at the GITEX 2014 Smart Cities Conference held in Dubai. Mr. Sahib's published research papers in various niches, such as GIS/LIS and accident management, underline his well-rounded expertise and commitment to advancing urban technology.

    Contributions to the Industry

    In addition to his numerous roles, Mr. Sahib has been pivotal in launching innovative solutions like izi.TRAVEL, the world's number one GPS-aided FREE audio guide application for tourists. This groundbreaking app has revolutionized the conventional audio tour guide niche by providing an open platform allowing tourist departments, agencies, museums, and tour guides to share their audio tours freely, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

    Currently, he leads a team dedicated to designing and developing mobile applications specifically geared towards enhancing the functionality and livability of smart cities. This focus on technology and user-centric design continues to solidify his reputation as a trailblazer in the realm of smart urban development.

    Achievements

    • Over 30 years of experience in city planning and geospatial technology.
    • Expertise in GIS, Open source web mapping applications, Geo-analytics, and navigation data production.
    • Developed the Geo Reference Locator (GRL) system for UAE.
    • Executive Director at Informap Technology Center in Sharjah.
    • Co-authored books on E-Governance and E-Democracy for Smart Cities.
    • Speaker at major industry conferences including GITEX 2014 and the GCC Municipalities & Smart Cities conference.
    • Designed and developed the izi.TRAVEL app, a leading audio guide platform for tourists.

    Related Questions

    How did Ummer Sahib's experience in GIS software development contribute to his role as Executive Director at Informap Technology Center?
    In what ways has Ummer Sahib integrated IoT and Big Data into urban planning projects?
    What inspired Ummer Sahib to develop the Geo Reference Locator (GRL) system for the UAE?
    How has Ummer Sahib's education at CEPT University influenced his approach to city planning and technology?
    What innovative solutions has Ummer Sahib contributed to the urban planning industry through his leadership?
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    Location

    United Arab Emirates