Actor and Wrexham AFC co-owner Ryan Reynolds appeared at the inaugural Livability and Investment Exhibition (LIVEX) 2026 in Abu Dhabi, taking part in a "Growth with Soul" conversation alongside Tyler Brûlé, Editorial Director of Monocle. The exhibition, running from September 29 to October 1 at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, focuses on quality of life and investment in growing cities.
Reynolds, who has served as Yas Island Abu Dhabi's Chief Island Officer since 2024, said cities that experienced exponential growth typically began by investing in universities. "Abu Dhabi is doing it very, very well," he said. "You're suddenly bringing that and you're creating eccentricity as well," he added, referring to the emirate's approach to blending education, art and culture into its growth strategy.
He also reflected on his experience co-owning Wrexham AFC, the Welsh football club he acquired in 2021, describing how the team's organic growth stemmed from listening closely to the local community and staying curious about its needs. "By just letting things happen organically, and being curious about things, the community started to grow, and they felt seen," he said.
Reynolds added that curiosity about people, even those who seem hard to reach, eventually breaks down barriers between communities and institutions. He argued that cities need universities, art and culture to develop authentic character, rather than chasing perfection alone.
His appearance at LIVEX, which has drawn international figures from urban planning, investment and culture, has renewed attention on Abu Dhabi's approach to cultural and educational development as part of its broader growth strategy.