Riyadh: Riyadh Municipality will host the 61st World Planning Congress of the International Society of City and Regional Planners (ISOCARP) in the capital on Monday, in partnership with ISOCARP. The 61st ISOCARP World Planning Congress runs from December 1 to 4, 2025, under the theme: 'Cities and Regions in Action: Planning Pathways to Resilience and Quality of Life.'
According to Saudi Press Agency, the municipality's hosting of this global event reflects the capital's growing urban profile and its rising role as an international platform for dialogue on the future of cities. It also highlights Riyadh's position as an open laboratory for innovative urban practices, in line with Saudi Vision 2030 goals to build efficient, thriving cities capable of keeping pace with rapid urban transformation.
The congress offers an opportunity to strengthen international partnerships among experts, planners, and city leaders, while highlighting Riyadh's efforts to develop modern urban environments that enhance quality of life, improve infrastructure efficiency, and rely on data and advanced technologies in resource management and development.
This year, the congress will address a wide range of urban issues, including climate resilience, digital transformation, integrated governance, urban equity, and quality of life. It will also examine challenges related to population growth, natural resource management, and the development of critical infrastructure, while promoting innovative data- and artificial intelligence-driven planning models and exploring more sustainable pathways for urban development.
The congress program includes plenary sessions with ministers, mayors, and leaders of international organizations, as well as interactive workshops that bring together senior planners, engineers, and global experts. It also features specialized sessions and field visits to urban sites in Riyadh, showcasing the major transformations taking place in the capital in urban design, population growth management, public space development, housing, transportation, and infrastructure.
Additionally, the congress will witness the launch of key initiatives, most notably the Young Planning Professionals initiative, which allows the next generation to shape their visions for the future of cities and regions. High-level political meetings will bring together city leaders and decision-makers to chart new directions for sustainable urban development.