Architecture And Design Commission Engages At WUF12 In Cairo To Promote Sustainable Urban Development

The Architecture and Design Commission will join the Saudi Pavilion at the World Urban Forum's twelfth edition. This event is scheduled from November 4 to 8, 2024, at Cairo's Egypt International Exhibition Center. The forum, initiated by the United Nations in 2001, is a major global gathering focused on sustainable urbanization and addressing critical urban challenges worldwide.

The commission aims to delve into current trends in urban development and sustainable cities through its participation. It plans to share insights with officials and experts while highlighting its contributions in these areas. The theme for this year's forum is "It All Starts at Home: Local Actions for Sustainable Cities and Communities," attracting a wide range of participants globally to discuss urgent urban issues.

The commission will present several initiatives, including the King Salman Charter for Architecture and Urbanism, the Urban Transformation Initiative, and the Architecture and Design Sector Report. Dr. Sumayah Al-Solaiman, CEO of the commission, will engage in two high-level panel discussions titled "The Heartbeat of the City" and "Shaping Urban Identities: Strategies for Enhancing the Visual Image of Cities."

Additionally, there will be panel discussions on topics like the King Salman Charter for Architecture and Urbanism and an overview of Saudi Arabia's Architecture and Design Sector. These discussions aim to provide insights into ongoing efforts to enhance urban environments within the Kingdom.

The commission plans to conduct workshops focusing on implementing its Urban Transformation Guide for Cities. This guide offers strategies for planning and executing projects that create inclusive social spaces within Saudi cities. It covers six aspects of public spaces: sports venues, public squares, indoor public spaces, streets and walkways, as well as natural open spaces like parks and gardens.

This participation highlights the commission's dedication to engaging with global communities. It seeks to participate in significant regional and international events while strengthening strategic partnerships worldwide. These efforts aim to bring best practices and expertise to advance Saudi Arabia's architecture and design sector.

Previous Engagements

This marks the commission's second appearance at the World Urban Forum. They previously attended a forum organized by UN-Habitat in Katowice, Poland, from June 26 to 30, 2022. Their continued involvement underscores their commitment to fostering international collaboration in urban development.

The Architecture and Design Commission’s engagement at this forum reflects its ongoing commitment to enhancing global community interactions. By participating in key events like this one, they aim to integrate international best practices into their work within Saudi Arabia.

With inputs from SPA