Riyadh Hosts The 61st ISOCARP World Planning Congress: Focus On Urban Resilience And Quality Of Life In December 2025

Under the auspices of Prince Dr. Faisal bin Ayyaf, Mayor of Riyadh Region, a formal signing event took place in Riyadh. This event marked an agreement between Riyadh Region Municipality and the International Society of City and Regional Planners (ISOCARP). The agreement designates Riyadh as the host city for the 61st World Planning Congress, scheduled from December 1 to 4, 2025.

ISOCARP is a global network of urban planning professionals with members from over 90 countries. The organisation focuses on promoting sustainable and innovative urban development. The Congress will highlight Riyadh's urban transformation efforts and its ambition to become a leader in smart and sustainable development.

The Congress will serve as a platform to explore new pathways for urban planning amid today’s complex challenges. ISOCARP invites "Cities & Regions in Action" to discuss strategies that enhance citizens' quality of life. This is crucial given the current climate of volatility and uncertainty affecting urban areas worldwide.

Deputy Mayor Eng. Hussain Al-Sudairi highlighted that hosting this Congress aligns with Saudi Vision 2030. It aims to strengthen global partnerships, empower local talent, and leverage international expertise. These efforts are part of Riyadh's broader goal to emerge as a sustainable global city.

The Congress presents an opportunity to showcase Riyadh's progress as a regional model for managing population growth through innovative solutions. It also aims to elevate Riyadh’s standing by engaging international investors and highlighting forward-looking urban projects.

ISOCARP has been organising this annual event since 1965 in cities known for advanced urban practices like Toronto, Brussels, Doha, Jakarta, Rotterdam, Durban, Portland (USA), and Norway. Recent editions were held in Siena, Italy, and New Clark City, Philippines.

Engagement with Global Experts

The Congress will include various enrichment events such as the Young Planning Professionals (YPP) Program and Masterclasses. Participants can also attend awards ceremonies, workshops, and site visits to key urban projects in Riyadh.

Urban planners, academics, practitioners, and public officials are encouraged to join this gathering. They will have the chance to share strategies for building sustainable urban futures while exploring how digital technologies can be integrated into planning practices.

Strategic Partnerships for Urban Innovation

ISOCARP welcomes strategic partnerships from Middle Eastern stakeholders to advance shared goals for innovative urban development. The organisation focuses on trends like revitalising neglected spaces and enhancing sustainable density while connecting heritage with modern development.

This prestigious event aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 by transforming Riyadh into a sustainable global city. It reflects the municipality’s commitment to knowledge exchange and promoting Riyadh’s journey as an inspiring regional model.

The Congress provides a strategic platform for learning from leading urban planning practices globally. It offers opportunities to address pressing challenges such as rapid expansion and climate change while fostering resilient growth.

With inputs from SPA