AUDI launches first Episode of “Mayor Talks” Podcast Series

The Arab Urban Development Institute (AUDI) has launched, today, “Mayor Talks” podcast series, an innovative knowledge platform that features firsthand insights from mayors across Arab cities. The podcast aims to preserve the memory and identity of cities while highlighting exemplary practices in municipal and urban development.

The podcast series brings together mayors from Arab cities to explore the pressing challenges and opportunities in urban development. By sharing isnpiring experiences and innovative practices, it seeks to spark meaningful urban dialogue, promote the exchange of expertise across the region, and advance sustainable development in Arab cities.

In its debut episode, the podcast welcomed H.E. Mr. Saleh bin Ali Al-Turki, Mayor of Jeddah, who discussed critical themes shaping the city’s future. Topics included Jeddah’s urban identity, environmental sustainability, digital transformation and smart city initiatives, governance and financial sustainability, quality of life, urban humanization, and the development of informal neighborhoods.

Al-Turki also highlighted Jeddah as a model for ambitious Arab cities aiming to strengthen their regional and international presence. The city achieves this by investing in infrastructure and enhancing municipal services, while carefully balancing the preservation of its historical identity with the adoption of innovative solutions and modern technologies.

It is worth noting that the launch of this podcast series marks a significant step for AUDI in broadening its knowledge base and leveraging modern media platforms to advance the development of Arab cities. AUDI envisions “Mayor Talks” podcast as a key reference and source of inspiration for decision-makers, researchers, and those who are interested in municipal and urban affairs across the Arab world.