Al-Haqil at the World Urban Forum: One million families benefit from housing
On behalf of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, may God protect them, His Excellency the Minister of Municipalities and Housing, Mr. Majid bin Abdullah Al-Hogail, headed the delegation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia participating in the Presidential Meeting of the States participating in the 13th World Urban Forum, organized by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) in Baku. The event witnessed broad international participation from heads of state, officials, experts, and international organizations concerned with sustainable urban development.
Historical context and importance of the World Urban Forum
The World Urban Forum, established by the United Nations in 2001, is the leading global platform for discussing the challenges arising from rapid urbanization and its impact on societies, cities, and economies. The Kingdom's participation in this international forum stems from its longstanding commitment to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Goal 11, which aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. This participation represents a vital opportunity to exchange visions and innovative solutions with the international community.
A comprehensive urban transformation led by Vision 2030
During his speech, His Excellency Minister Al-Hogail affirmed that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is witnessing an unprecedented urban transformation, driven and guided by the objectives of “Saudi Vision 2030.” This ambitious vision has made quality of life and sustainability key pillars in all urban development plans, contributing to the building of more inclusive and human-centered cities. His Excellency explained that the Kingdom is not merely developing cities in terms of infrastructure, but is working to completely redefine the concept of the city by adopting modern urban models that create a delicate balance between economic development, environmental sustainability, and quality of life. He noted that this national transformation is redefining the relationship between people and place.
Achievements of the urban and housing sector
Al-Haqil explained that the Kingdom has achieved significant progress in the urban and housing sector, most notably the increase in homeownership among Saudi families to over 66%, nearing the Vision's targets. In addition, housing and development solutions and programs have been provided, benefiting more than one million families across various regions. These efforts included "developmental housing" programs, which have effectively contributed to enabling the most vulnerable families to own their homes, thus enhancing their social and economic stability and fostering social solidarity.
Humanizing cities and building smart cities of the future
His Excellency pointed out that the Kingdom has placed people at the heart of urban development by enhancing urban accessibility and redesigning cities to be more vibrant and safe. To preserve cultural heritage, 19 architectural styles have been launched that reflect Saudi urban identity and maintain the cultural character of cities alongside modern development. He affirmed that the Kingdom is moving forward in building the cities of the future by adopting smart city concepts and employing advanced technologies; more than eight Saudi cities have been included in the IMD Smart City Index, and 16 cities have joined the Global Healthy Cities Initiative, a step that reflects integrated efforts to improve quality of life.
Regional and international influence and strengthening partnerships
At the regional and international levels, Al-Hogail emphasized the importance of strengthening international partnerships and exchanging expertise to build cities capable of facing future challenges such as climate change and population growth. He affirmed that the Kingdom's experience today represents an advanced regional and global model based on human development, identity, and sustainability. This model not only has a positive impact on Saudi Arabia but also enhances the Kingdom's position as an influential force in shaping the future of urban development globally, and opens up broad horizons for attracting foreign investments that support the national economy and create new job opportunities.
