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The Arab Urban Development Institute concludes its participation in the World Urban Forum (WUF12) by signing three agreements

04 Nov 2024

The Arab Urban Development Institute (AUDI) successfully concluded its participation in the 12th World Urban Forum (WUF12), held in Cairo, Egypt, from November 4th to 8th, 2024. The five-day event, organized by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), brought together representatives from over 180 countries and 115 local and international organizations. His Royal Highness Prince Dr. Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf, Mayor of Riyadh Region and President of AUDI, led the Kingdom’s delegation.

Under the patronage of His Highness the Mayor of Riyadh Region, AUDI, represented by the Director General Dr. Anas Almughairy, witnessed the signing of three agreements in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s pavilion. These agreements included the following:
  • a.A cooperation agreement was signed to launch the Arab European Cities Dialogue Forum with the pan-European coalition of towns and regions (Platforma) and the International Agency of the Association of Netherlands Municipalities (CILG-VNGI). Riyadh will host the first edition of the forum in May 2025.
  • b.A cooperation agreement was signed in the presence of the Egyptian Minister of Housing, Utilities, and Urban Communities, Eng. Sherif El-Sherbiny, and the Urban Training and Studies Institute, represented by its Chairman, Eng. Mohamed Al-Saadawi. The agreement entails exchanging expertise, consultations, sustainable urban studies, and organizing several local, regional, and international conferences.
  • c.A cooperation agreement was signed with the World Association of Major Metropolises (Metropolis), represented by Secretary General Mr. Jordi Vaquer. The agreement entails exchanging expertise in building institutional capacities for cities, implementing urban development policy programs, and enhancing the international presence of Arab cities.

Additionally, AUDI participated in the WUF12 by organizing three main sessions. The first was titled “Cities in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Pioneering Urban Applications,” the second, “A Better Urban Future: Cognitive and Applied Integration in City Management,” and the third, “For More Effective Urban Development: Knowledge Exchange Platforms Between Cities.” Furthermore, AUDI’s lead specialists participated in three dialogue sessions with researchers and specialized experts from around the world. More than 35 meetings and private sessions were held with representatives of participating international organizations and government agencies.

AUDI’s pavilion attracted significant international attention during the forum, welcoming over 1,500 visitors, including experts, representatives of international and regional organizations, universities, research institutions, and specialized associations worldwide. It also showcased a range of projects and programs to promote sustainable urban development in Arab cities, as well as innovative solutions to address the challenges of urban growth. As part of AUDI’s commitment to offering a renewed vision for the development of Arab cities and promoting sustainable urban planning, this participation aims to contribute to a global dialogue that underscores AUDI’s leadership in supporting city development goals and strengthening partnerships among cities.