Saudi Arabia showcases sustainable urban planning at Cairo forum, with a focus on green spaces, infrastructure innovation, and community-led development

The municipality in Riyadh is set to showcase its sustainable urban planning initiatives at the 12th World Urban Forum, hosted by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme in Cairo from 4–8 November. This event brings together urban planners, government officials, and sustainability experts from around the globe, providing a platform for Saudi Arabia to highlight the progress made under its Vision 2030 agenda in creating sustainable, resilient, and community-focused urban environments.

By participating in this year’s World Urban Forum, Riyadh is not only solidifying its regional influence but also aiming to play a leading role in the international movement towards sustainable urbanisation. Vision 2030, a transformative national strategy initiated by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, sets a course for diversifying Saudi Arabia’s economy while improving the quality of life for its citizens. One of the Kingdom’s pivotal objectives within this agenda is the development of environmentally conscious urban spaces that prioritise the health, well-being, and engagement of its communities.

Central to Riyadh’s presentation will be its emphasis on comprehensive urban planning, with a strong focus on sustainable transportation, waste management, and the creation of expansive green spaces. These initiatives are designed to address some of the core environmental challenges facing cities worldwide, such as pollution, traffic congestion, and resource management. Riyadh’s city planners are also concentrating on reducing visual pollution to enhance the aesthetic and environmental quality of urban areas. This effort not only aligns with Vision 2030’s sustainability goals but also resonates with the rising global demand for clean, liveable cities.

Beyond sustainability, the municipality of Riyadh is leveraging cutting-edge technology to improve the city’s infrastructure. Advanced systems such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and smart project management tools are transforming Riyadh into a future-ready city that meets the dynamic needs of its residents. The aim is to use these technologies to build resilient and adaptable urban spaces where community members can interact seamlessly with their environment. For instance, AI-driven solutions and data analysis play crucial roles in optimising waste management, public transportation, and traffic flow, ensuring that the city operates efficiently and sustainably.

Another core element of Riyadh’s showcase at the forum will be its focus on community engagement. Saudi Arabia recognises that creating sustainable urban spaces requires more than just innovative infrastructure—it also demands the active participation and commitment of the community. In line with this, Riyadh’s municipality has developed a range of programmes aimed at encouraging residents to take an active role in urban development and environmental stewardship. These efforts include initiatives to promote recycling, raise awareness about green energy, and foster a sense of shared responsibility for maintaining public spaces.

Participating in the World Urban Forum also allows Riyadh to reinforce its commitment to strengthening international partnerships. By collaborating with global experts and engaging in discussions about the future of urban development, Riyadh’s delegation aims to draw from the experiences of other cities while sharing its own insights and achievements. This collaborative approach aligns with Vision 2030’s broader goals of establishing Saudi Arabia as a global leader in innovation, sustainability, and economic diversification.

The forum provides an ideal platform for Riyadh to connect with other cities facing similar challenges and to explore new avenues for collaboration. By sharing best practices and discussing shared concerns, Riyadh and its partners can work together to address pressing global issues, such as climate change, urban sprawl, and economic resilience. Saudi Arabia’s participation in these dialogues underscores its commitment to building sustainable, inclusive, and forward-thinking cities that contribute to a healthier planet.

One of the key projects that Riyadh plans to highlight is its initiative to enhance green spaces across the city. Expanding public parks, gardens, and tree-lined walkways is not only intended to beautify the city but also to promote public health by providing residents with accessible recreational areas. These green spaces help mitigate urban heat, reduce air pollution, and support biodiversity. They are also essential in creating an environment where residents can lead active, healthy lifestyles and connect with nature.

The 12th World Urban Forum represents a significant moment for Saudi Arabia as it seeks to position itself at the forefront of global urban sustainability efforts. Through its Vision 2030 programme, the Kingdom is demonstrating that economic growth and environmental responsibility are not mutually exclusive. Instead, they are two sides of the same coin, with each enhancing the other. As the forum unfolds, Riyadh will share its unique perspective on how forward-thinking policies, community engagement, and advanced technology can come together to create cities that are vibrant, liveable, and sustainable.

Ultimately, Saudi Arabia’s presence at the World Urban Forum underscores its commitment to fostering sustainable urban environments that benefit both current and future generations. By showcasing its achievements in areas such as urban planning, green spaces, and digital innovation, Riyadh sustainable urban planning makes a clear statement: the Kingdom is ready to take its place as a leader in the global movement towards sustainable cities.