Riyadh: The Riyadh Municipality, in cooperation with the International Society of City and Regional Planners (ISOCARP), has announced an extension of the deadline for abstract submissions for the 61st ISOCARP World Planning Congress. The new deadline is set for July 7, with the congress scheduled to take place in Riyadh from December 1 to 4.

According to Saudi Press Agency, the deadline extension is a response to increased international interest and aims to facilitate broader participation from experts and specialists worldwide. This year's congress coincides with ISOCARP's Diamond Jubilee and will highlight emerging research, modern planning practices, and transformative ideas. The event seeks to contribute to the development of a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable urban future by bringing together academics, urban planners, practitioners, and policymakers globally.

The congress is set to explore five key themes: Sustainable Urban Growth in a World of Multiple Crises; Urban Economy and the Digital Age: 24-hour City and Artificial Intelligence (AI); Adapting Dynamic Cities to Extreme Climatic Conditions; Culture, Identity, and Inclusive Urban Transformation; and Governing and Managing the Co-created Agile City.

Hosting the ISOCARP World Planning Congress aligns with Riyadh Municipality's efforts to establish the city as a global hub for urban planning and knowledge exchange. This initiative is in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and underscores the commitment to sustainable urban development that enhances the quality of life.