AUDI Holds its 22nd Webinar on "Adopting an approach that moves beyond material solutions toward sustainable urban transformation"

As part of its ongoing commitment to promoting inclusive urban planning across the Arab Region, the Arab Urban Development Institute (AUDI) held, today, the 22nd session of its “Cities in Action" series on "Adopting an approach that moves beyond material solutions toward sustainable urban transformation", bringing together a wide range of specialists and professionals in urban development.

Dr. Abdullah Difallah, the webinar moderator and professor of urban planning, opened the session, welcomed the attendees and highlighted the importance of addressing informal settlements as a complex issue with interconnected theoretical and practical dimensions in urban planning. He emphasized the need for a deeper understanding of the problem’s various dimensions and contexts.

Dr. Waleed Alzamil, professor at the Department of Urban Planning, King Saud University, and specialist in urban planning, housing, and human settlements, delivered a presentation on the concept of informal settlements. He emphasized the importance of distinguishing between informal settlements and deteriorated urban areas, while highlighting the links between informal housing, tenure security, and regulatory and legislative frameworks. 

Dr. Alzamil discussed the factors behind the emergence of informal settlements, linking them to gaps in housing policies and programs that fail to provide suitable options for low-income groups. He stressed that effective responses must consider residents’ lifestyles, livelihoods, and social networks, rather than relying solely on physical interventions or the provision of housing units.

Drawing on field experiences and observations, he highlighted the need for context-specific approaches, including upgrading and development, resettlement, or demolition and redevelopment. He emphasized that such interventions should be accompanied by appropriate and sustainable housing and economic alternatives for affected residents.

Dr. Alzamil further underscored that sustainable policies for informal settlements require a balance between economic, social, and environmental considerations. This includes developing policies and legislation that protect low-income groups and promote equitable cities, while ensuring that real estate investment does not become the sole driver of urban development.

Following the presentation, Dr. Abdullah Dhifallah, together with Dr. Ziad Alameddine, Director of Urban Policy Research Program at AUDI, moderated a discussion on the causes of informal settlements and approaches to their development. The discussion examined the balance between investment feasibility and social considerations, while addressing audience questions on appropriate solutions for informal settlements across different contexts.

In closing, Dr. Abdullah Dhifallah thanked Dr. Waleed Alzamil for his valuable presentation and insights into addressing informal settlements. He also expressed appreciation to Dr. Ziad Alameddine for his participation and to the audience for their active engagement, which contributed to a richer discussion on developing sustainable urban policies that integrate urban, economic, and social considerations.