Saudi Arabia Showcases City Development Expertise And Livability Initiatives At World Urban Forum

Prince Dr. Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf led the Saudi delegation at the 12th World Urban Forum in Cairo, highlighting Saudi Arabia's extensive experience in urban development and quality of life improvements. Since 2016, the nation has pursued a comprehensive vision for 2030, focusing on enhancing city livability alongside economic, environmental, and social aspects.

Seventeen municipalities are actively implementing initiatives aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 to benefit residents and visitors. Prince Faisal praised significant projects like King Salman Park, Sports Boulevard, and Diriyah, as well as environmental efforts such as the Saudi Green Initiative. These projects reflect the Kingdom's commitment to impactful urban development.

The housing sector has seen notable progress, with over 63% of Saudi households owning homes by the end of 2023. The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has also made strides in urban technology by developing a sustainable digital system. This advancement underscores the Kingdom's dedication to innovation in urban living.

Saudi Arabia achieved a historic milestone by ranking fourth globally in the Online Service Index (OSI) in the United Nations’ E-Government Survey 2024. It also secured second place among G20 countries and first regionally. Riyadh ranked third globally in the Local Online Service Index (LOSI), showcasing its digital service excellence.

Prince Faisal emphasized Saudi Arabia's efforts to foster global partnerships and share expertise with other capitals worldwide. This collaboration aims to realize Vision 2030, promoting mutual benefits for societal advancement. The Kingdom's initiatives have yielded significant successes across various sectors.

The E-Government Development Index (EGDI) placed Saudi Arabia sixth globally, reflecting its commitment to digital governance. These achievements highlight the nation's progress in integrating technology into public services, enhancing accessibility and efficiency for its citizens.

The Kingdom's strategic focus on urban development is evident through its ambitious projects and international collaborations. By prioritizing sustainability and innovation, Saudi Arabia continues to enhance livability for its residents while contributing to global urban development discourse.

With inputs from SPA