The Steering Committee of the Arab-European Cities Dialogue Forum (AECD) convened in Madrid on July 20, 2026, to review preparations for the forum’s second edition, scheduled for January 2027. Chaired by Prince Dr. Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf, Mayor of Riyadh and President of the Arab Urban Development Institute, the meeting focused on strengthening urban cooperation between Arab and European cities.
Context and Background
The AECD Forum, a strategic initiative of the Arab Urban Development Institute, aims to foster collaboration between Arab and European municipalities. The inaugural edition, hosted by Riyadh in 2025, brought together over 300 mayors, urban leaders, and representatives from 100 cities and 45 international organizations under the theme ‘City Partnerships for a Better Future.’
Key Details
The Madrid meeting included Mayor of Madrid José Luis Martinez-Almeida, co-chair of the forum, along with Mayor of Rabat Fatiha El Moudni and Mayor of Athens Dr. Haris Doukas. The committee emphasized building on the success of the inaugural forum by expanding partnerships, exchanging expertise, and advancing innovative solutions to urban challenges.
Implications and Impact
The second edition of the AECD Forum will reinforce its role as a leading international platform for urban dialogue and cooperation. By fostering sustainable development and improving quality of life, the forum aligns with global urban development goals and strengthens ties between Arab and European cities.
Vision 2030 Alignment
The AECD Forum supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by promoting international collaboration and knowledge exchange in urban development. This initiative underscores Saudi Arabia’s leadership in fostering global partnerships and advancing sustainable urban futures.
20 Questions
Q1. What is the AECD Forum?
A1. The AECD Forum is a platform for dialogue and cooperation between Arab and European cities, focusing on urban development and sustainable solutions.
Q2. Who chairs the AECD Steering Committee?
A2. The committee is chaired by Prince Dr. Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf, Mayor of Riyadh and President of the Arab Urban Development Institute.
Q3. Where will the second edition of the forum be held?
A3. The second edition will be held in Madrid, Spain, in January 2027.
Q4. Who attended the Madrid meeting?
A4. Attendees included Mayor of Madrid José Luis Martinez-Almeida, Mayor of Rabat Fatiha El Moudni, and Mayor of Athens Dr. Haris Doukas.
Q5. What was the theme of the inaugural forum?
A5. The inaugural forum, hosted by Riyadh, focused on ‘City Partnerships for a Better Future.’
Q6. How many cities participated in the first forum?
A6. Representatives from over 100 Arab and European cities attended the inaugural forum.
Q7. What is the Arab Urban Development Institute?
A7. The Arab Urban Development Institute is a Saudi-based organization promoting urban development and cooperation across Arab cities.
Q8. What are the goals of the AECD Forum?
A8. The forum aims to strengthen urban partnerships, exchange expertise, and advance sustainable urban solutions.
Q9. How does the forum support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030?
A9. The forum aligns with Vision 2030 by fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange in urban development.
Q10. What challenges does the forum address?
A10. The forum focuses on shared urban challenges, including sustainability, innovation, and quality of life.
Q11. What role does Riyadh play in the AECD Forum?
A11. Riyadh hosted the inaugural forum and continues to lead through its representation in the Steering Committee.
Q12. How does the forum benefit European cities?
A12. The forum enables European cities to exchange expertise and collaborate with Arab counterparts on urban development projects.
Q13. What is the significance of Madrid hosting the second edition?
A13. Madrid’s hosting highlights the forum’s international reach and strengthens ties between Arab and European cities.
Q14. What topics will the 2027 forum cover?
A14. The forum will focus on key urban themes, including innovation, sustainability, and partnerships.
Q15. How many mayors attended the inaugural forum?
A15. Over 300 mayors and urban leaders participated in the first forum.
Q16. What organizations are involved in the forum?
A16. Representatives from 45 international organizations attended the inaugural edition.
Q17. How does the forum promote sustainable development?
A17. The forum encourages the exchange of innovative solutions and best practices for sustainable urban growth.
Q18. What is the role of the Steering Committee?
A18. The Steering Committee oversees the forum’s organization, themes, and strategic direction.
Q19. How does the forum improve quality of life?
A19. By addressing urban challenges and fostering partnerships, the forum enhances urban living standards.
Q20. What is the long-term impact of the AECD Forum?
A20. The forum aims to establish lasting urban partnerships and contribute to global sustainable development goals.
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