Message from the Director General

In light of the changes taking place in our cities, the Arab Urban Development Institute (AUDI) aims to establish its role as a leading institution that supports cities in the Arab world in addressing their urban development challenges. We seek to accomplish this by contributing to progressive ideas and innovative practices, spearheading capacity development initiatives for institutions and municipalities, and positioning AUDI as the primary platform for networking and knowledge sharing between cities, municipalities, universities, and regional and international organizations within the domain of urban development.

To realize our aspirations, we have taken several principal steps towards a holistic and systematic transformation, based on an institutional strategic plan, the AUDI Strategy 2025. This Strategy is based on a comprehensive understanding of the various challenges and opportunities faced by Arab cities and municipalities today. It responds to their needs, as well as to their aspirations of modernization and prosperity. The strategic plan presents a diverse set of programs and activities, targeted at the multi-faceted needs of our partners as well as of the member cities of the Arab Towns Organization (ATO). Furthermore, the strategy stresses the need for strengthening the identity of AUDI, enhancing its digital presence through a revitalized online platform in the form of the AUDI website and social media channels, developing communication channels with partners, and building partnerships at the regional and international levels for effective implementation of its programs.

At the organizational level, we have streamlined the operational structure of the institute with the aim of enhancing efficiency in the workplace, informed by key performance indicators that are regularly monitored and evaluated by the management. Moreover, the institute’s human resources have been strengthened with qualified professionals in the field of urban development, who drive the implementation of AUDIs three programs and their respective activities. These changes are accompanied by the modernization of AUDI’s workspace; a vibrant experience within the existing AUDI premises, fostering collaboration and creativity within the team, in a building enveloped by natural lighting and a variety of flora.

The AUDI website serves as one of the main communication channels between the institute and its partners, that is, government institutions, non-profit organizations, universities, individual experts, and the general public. The content in the website is structured to ensure clarity and presents the diversity of our programs to its readers. All updates related to our activities, including our publications and events, will be disseminated through our website. We also invite everyone to contribute in shaping the future of Arab cities, by engaging with us as affiliates or members, and participating in our activities.

I wish you an informative and enjoyable experience as you navigate this website, and we look forward to your support and participation in the work we aim to accomplish.

Thank you,
Dr. Anas Almughairy