The Housing Program, a key initiative under Saudi Vision 2030, is set to participate in the 12th World Urban Forum (WUF12) in Cairo, Egypt, from November 4 to 8, 2024. Organized by the United Nations Human Settlements Program (UN-Habitat), the forum provides a global platform for discussing sustainable urban development, and the Housing Program’s involvement underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to advancing inclusive housing strategies across the Arab region and beyond.
Context and Background
The World Urban Forum, convened biennially by UN-Habitat, is the premier global conference on urban issues, bringing together government officials, urban planners, and stakeholders to address challenges related to urbanization, housing, and sustainable development. The Housing Program, launched as part of Saudi Vision 2030, aims to increase homeownership rates and improve the quality of housing in the Kingdom, aligning with broader efforts to diversify the economy and enhance citizens’ well-being. Its participation in WUF12 reflects Saudi Arabia’s active role in shaping international housing policies and sharing best practices.
Key Details
The Housing Program will be represented by its CEO, Aiman Saleh, who will participate in a high-level dialogue session titled “Advancing Inclusive Efforts for Housing Strategies Across the Arab Region.” This session will examine outcomes and opportunities to strengthen housing strategies and expand access to affordable housing, featuring insights from key government agencies within the Saudi housing sector. Additionally, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s pavilion, spanning over 3,000 square meters, will host a range of activities, workshops, and dialogue sessions, with more than 40 interactive events planned. Over 150 representatives from Saudi entities will participate, showcasing the Kingdom’s advancements in sustainable urban planning and its role in shaping inclusive housing solutions.
Implications and Impact
The Housing Program’s engagement at WUF12 underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in global urban policy dialogues. By exchanging expertise with international partners, the Kingdom contributes to regional stability and development, particularly in the Arab world, where affordable housing remains a critical challenge. The event also highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, especially Goal 11 on sustainable cities and communities, reinforcing its leadership in the Middle East and North Africa region.
Vision 2030 Alignment
This participation directly supports Saudi Vision 2030 by fostering international collaboration in housing and urban development, a key pillar of the Kingdom’s transformation. By showcasing innovative housing solutions and engaging in global forums, the Housing Program helps position Saudi Arabia as a hub for sustainable urban innovation, contributing to the Vision’s goal of improving quality of life and achieving economic diversification. The insights gained from WUF12 will inform local policies, accelerating progress toward increasing homeownership to 70% by 2030.
20 Questions
Q1. What is the World Urban Forum?
A1. The World Urban Forum is a global conference organized by UN-Habitat to address urban challenges, promote sustainable development, and facilitate dialogue among governments, experts, and stakeholders.
Q2. When and where is WUF12 taking place?
A2. WUF12 is being held in Cairo, Egypt, from November 4 to 8, 2024, bringing together participants from around the world to discuss urban issues.
Q3. Who is representing the Housing Program at WUF12?
A3. The Housing Program is represented by its CEO, Aiman Saleh, who is participating in a high-level dialogue session on housing strategies in the Arab region.
Q4. What is the Housing Program?
A4. The Housing Program is a key initiative under Saudi Vision 2030 aimed at increasing homeownership rates and improving housing quality in the Kingdom.
Q5. What session is Aiman Saleh participating in?
A5. He is participating in a high-level dialogue session titled “Advancing Inclusive Efforts for Housing Strategies Across the Arab Region.”
Q6. What is the goal of the session on housing strategies?
A6. The session aims to explore outcomes and opportunities to strengthen housing strategies and expand access to affordable housing across the Arab region.
Q7. How large is the Saudi pavilion at WUF12?
A7. The Saudi pavilion spans over 3,000 square meters, hosting activities, workshops, and dialogue sessions.
Q8. How many interactive events are planned at the Saudi pavilion?
A8. More than 40 interactive events are planned at the Saudi pavilion during the forum.
Q9. How many Saudi representatives are participating?
A9. Over 150 representatives from Saudi entities are participating in WUF12.
Q10. What is the main theme of Saudi Arabia’s presentation at WUF12?
A10. The presentation focuses on showcasing advancements in sustainable urban planning and inclusive housing solutions.
Q11. Why is Saudi Arabia participating in WUF12?
A11. To share its expertise in housing and urban development, and to collaborate with international partners on sustainable urban solutions.
Q12. How does this participation align with Vision 2030?
A12. It supports Vision 2030 by fostering international collaboration and advancing housing goals to improve quality of life and economic diversification.
Q13. What is Vision 2030’s homeownership target?
A13. Vision 2030 aims to increase homeownership rates to 70% by 2030 through initiatives like the Housing Program.
Q14. What UN agency is organizing WUF12?
A14. The forum is organized by the United Nations Human Settlements Program (UN-Habitat).
Q15. What UN Sustainable Development Goal is relevant to this event?
A15. Goal 11, which focuses on sustainable cities and communities, is directly relevant to the discussions at WUF12.
Q16. How does WUF12 benefit the Arab region?
A16. It provides a platform for Arab countries to strengthen housing strategies and learn from best practices to address affordable housing challenges.
Q17. Is this the first time Saudi Arabia participates in WUF?
A17. No, Saudi Arabia has participated in previous editions, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to urban development dialogue.
Q18. What is the role of the Housing Program CEO at the forum?
A18. CEO Aiman Saleh is engaging in high-level discussions to share Saudi insights and learn from global experiences in housing.
Q19. How does Saudi Arabia’s participation impact global urban policy?
A19. Saudi Arabia contributes to shaping inclusive policies and promotes sustainable urban development through its leadership and expertise.
Q20. What are the expected outcomes of Saudi Arabia’s participation?
A20. The Kingdom aims to gain insights to enhance local housing strategies and strengthen partnerships for sustainable urban development.
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