In a strategic move reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to developing its cities according to the highest international standards, the Riyadh Municipality, represented by Assistant Undersecretary Engineer Saleh Al-Saif, has been granted membership in the International Council on Urban Planning (ISOCARP) for a three-year term. This achievement came during an official visit by the Saudi delegation to The Hague, the capital of the Netherlands, at the invitation of the international organization, with the aim of strengthening the Saudi capital's presence in international planning networks and exchanging expertise in urban development.
This institutional step culminates the Saudi capital's growing efforts in urban development, which are closely linked to the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. Historically, Riyadh has witnessed rapid urban transformation over the past decades, evolving from a small city into one of the world's fastest-growing capitals. Today, Riyadh is leading a new phase focused on humanizing cities and environmental sustainability through mega-projects such as Green Riyadh and King Salman Park. Its membership in prestigious international organizations like the International Association of City and Regional Planners (IARP), founded in 1965 and comprising leading planners from around the world, is crucial for exchanging knowledge and implementing global best practices.
Leading urban development projects and knowledge exchange
The Saudi delegation's field visit to the Netherlands included intensive, specialized discussions with international experts. These sessions addressed modern urban transformation mechanisms and ways to exchange advanced planning knowledge among member states. The Riyadh Municipality explained that the delegation toured several leading urban development projects in Dutch cities to gain firsthand insight into successful international experiences in sustainable transportation, public space management, and eco-friendly city design, with the aim of adapting this knowledge to suit the specific needs of the Saudi capital.
Impact of joining at the local, regional and international levels
These moves demonstrate that Riyadh's active participation in the World Urban Planning Council solidifies its position as a key partner in shaping the cities of the future. Locally, this membership will positively impact the acceleration of development projects and improve the quality of life for residents. Regionally, this achievement reinforces Riyadh's standing as a leading model for sustainable urban planning in the Middle East. Internationally, it strengthens the Kingdom's influential presence on global platforms, enabling Riyadh to contribute to shaping global urban policies and addressing shared challenges such as climate change.
Achieving sustainable development and the vision of a prosperous Riyadh
Current indicators suggest that this membership represents an extension of the Riyadh Municipality's strategy towards achieving comprehensive sustainable development and building effective international partnerships that enhance the municipal and planning system. Official aspirations conclude that this knowledge and institutional integration will directly support the Municipality's vision of creating a thriving Riyadh that improves the quality of life and enhances the experience of both residents and visitors, ensuring the development of a resilient urban environment capable of efficiently and effectively meeting the needs of future generations.
