The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is set to participate in the twelfth session of the World Urban Forum, hosted by the United Nations Human Settlements Program (UN-Habitat) in Cairo, Egypt, from November 4 to 8, 2024. The forum will gather representatives from over 160 countries to discuss key issues and advancements in sustainable urban development, with Saudi Arabia playing a prominent role through a high-level delegation and a large national pavilion.
Context and Background
The World Urban Forum, established by UN-Habitat, is a premier global conference focused on urban challenges and sustainable development. The twelfth session convenes in Cairo amid growing international urgency to address rapid urbanization, climate resilience, and inclusive city planning. Saudi Arabia’s participation reflects its longstanding commitment to global dialogue on urban issues, as well as its own ambitious urban transformation plans under Vision 2030.
Key Details
Saudi Arabia’s delegation is led by Mayor of the Riyadh Region Prince Dr. Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf, who will engage in discussions on sustainable urban growth and the Kingdom’s role in global urban transformation. The Saudi pavilion, organized by the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing, will feature over 30 national governmental and private entities, highlighting the Kingdom’s pioneering contributions toward sustainable urbanization.
Spanning more than 3,000 square meters, the pavilion will include spaces for meetings, workshops, dialogue sessions, signing platforms, a VIP section, and individual displays for participating national entities. Over the course of the event, the pavilion will host more than 40 interactive activities with representation from 150 Saudi delegates.
Implications and Impact
This large-scale participation underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to creating inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities. By engaging with over 160 countries, the Kingdom is positioning itself as a key contributor to shaping regional and global urban agendas. The event also offers opportunities for knowledge exchange, partnerships, and showcasing Saudi innovations in urban planning, which can attract international investment and collaboration.
Vision 2030 Alignment
Saudi Arabia’s active role at the World Urban Forum directly supports Vision 2030 goals, including improving quality of life, enhancing urban sustainability, and building smart, resilient cities. The delegation’s activities align with the Kingdom’s broader strategy to diversify its economy and elevate its global standing as a hub for innovation and development. This participation reaffirms Saudi Arabia’s determination to lead by example in sustainable urbanization and to contribute meaningfully to the global effort to shape a better urban future.
20 Questions
Q1. What is the World Urban Forum?
A1. The World Urban Forum is a global conference convened by UN-Habitat to address urban challenges and promote sustainable urban development. It gathers representatives from governments, organizations, and experts from around the world.
Q2. When and where is the twelfth session being held?
A2. The twelfth session of the World Urban Forum is being held in Cairo, Egypt, from November 4 to 8, 2024. It brings together participants from over 160 countries.
Q3. Who is leading the Saudi delegation?
A3. The Saudi delegation is led by Mayor of the Riyadh Region Prince Dr. Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf. He will engage in discussions on sustainable urban growth and the Kingdom’s role in global urban transformation.
Q4. Which Saudi ministry organized the pavilion?
A4. The Saudi pavilion is organized by the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing. It features over 30 national governmental and private entities.
Q5. How large is the Saudi pavilion at the forum?
A5. The Saudi pavilion spans more than 3,000 square meters. It includes meeting spaces, workshops, dialogue sessions, a VIP section, and individual displays.
Q6. How many interactive activities will the Saudi pavilion host?
A6. The pavilion will host more than 40 interactive activities. These events are designed to showcase Saudi Arabia’s urban development achievements and foster dialogue.
Q7. How many Saudi delegates are participating?
A7. A total of 150 Saudi delegates are participating in the forum. They represent a wide range of governmental and private entities.
Q8. What is the main theme of the forum?
A8. The forum focuses on sustainable urban development. It addresses key issues such as urbanization, climate resilience, and inclusive city planning.
Q9. Why is Saudi Arabia’s participation significant?
A9. Saudi Arabia’s large-scale participation demonstrates its commitment to sustainable cities and global urban transformation. It also aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals.
Q10. How does this event support Vision 2030?
A10. The event supports Vision 2030 by promoting sustainable urbanization, quality of life improvements, and economic diversification. It showcases Saudi innovation and attracts international collaboration.
Q11. What is the role of UN-Habitat in the forum?
A11. UN-Habitat is the United Nations program responsible for sustainable urban development. It organizes the World Urban Forum to facilitate global dialogue and knowledge sharing.
Q12. Which countries are participating in the forum?
A12. Over 160 countries are participating in the forum. This wide representation highlights the global importance of urban development issues.
Q13. What activities are planned at the Saudi pavilion?
A13. The Saudi pavilion will host meetings, workshops, dialogue sessions, and signing platforms. It also includes a VIP section and individual displays for participating entities.
Q14. Will the forum include private sector participation from Saudi Arabia?
A14. Yes, over 30 national governmental and private entities are featured in the Saudi pavilion. This includes businesses and organizations involved in urban development.
Q15. What is the expected outcome of Saudi Arabia’s participation?
A15. Expected outcomes include knowledge exchange, new partnerships, and showcasing Saudi innovations. The participation strengthens Saudi Arabia’s role in global urban agendas.
Q16. How does the event benefit Cairo as the host city?
A16. Hosting the forum elevates Cairo’s profile as a regional hub for urban dialogue. It also fosters collaboration between Egypt and participating countries like Saudi Arabia.
Q17. What topics will be discussed at the forum?
A17. Topics include sustainable urbanization, climate resilience, inclusive cities, and urban innovation. Saudi Arabia will share its experiences and best practices in these areas.
Q18. Is this the first time Saudi Arabia participates?
A18. No, Saudi Arabia has participated in previous sessions of the World Urban Forum. This year’s participation is notably larger, reflecting the Kingdom’s growing commitment.
Q19. How does the forum align with global sustainability goals?
A19. The forum supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). Saudi Arabia’s contributions help advance these global targets.
Q20. What future urban initiatives might follow from this forum?
A20. The forum may lead to new joint projects and urban policies. Saudi Arabia will likely continue to play a leading role in shaping sustainable urban development regionally and globally.
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