The Quality of Life Program, one of Vision 2030 programs, is taking part in the twelfth session of World Urban Forum (WUF12) in Cairo, Egypt, as part of Saudi Arabia’s delegation, led by the Mayor of the Riyadh Region, Prince Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf, reported the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
The United Nations Human Settlements Program (UN-Habitat) organizes the WUF12 in Cairo, from November 4-8, 2024, under the theme “It All Starts at Home: Local Actions for Sustainable Cities and Communities.”
Exploring Urban Development
The participation of the Quality of Life Program aims to showcase the notable urban transformations in the Kingdom under Vision 2030, which prioritizes the residents’ quality of life as a key component of urban development. It also aims to highlight efforts made towards environmental sustainability and digital transformation in the urban design sector.
Furthermore, the Quality of Life Program will take part in a dialogue titled “Putting People First in a Digital Age,” where participants will discuss ways to develop smart cities that prioritize humans.
They will also explore ways to capitalize on practical strategies, applicable visions, and innovative thinking to enhance sustainable and inclusive development in the digital transformation of cities. The dialogue will also encourage cooperation among stakeholders, highlighting ways to make urban digital transformation inclusive and beneficial for all.
Significance of WUF12
On the sidelines of the WUF12, the Urban Exhibition will feature various panel discussions and workshops that aim to exchange expertise, build capacities, foster communication, and explore practical solutions to address urban challenges related to housing, transportation, energy, climate change and more.
On this occasion, the CEO of the Quality of Life Program, Khalid Abdullah Al-Bakr, said: “We are pleased to share our local experience in achieving comprehensive urban transformation. People are at the heart of our efforts as we work to build sustainable and resilient cities that contribute to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.”
Moreover, he stressed the importance of international cooperation in realizing urban development. “We believe that international cooperation is key to achieving sustainable urban development. Our participation in the forum allows us to strengthen collaboration with other countries and exchange experiences and knowledge, contributing to a better future for cities,” he added.
Quality of Life Program
Through more than 43 initiatives, the Quality of Life Program contributes to improving the urban landscape of Saudi Arabia’s cities. It also participates in developing the infrastructure by using the advanced techniques of smart cities and incorporating aesthetic elements in line with the Saudi Regions’ identities.
This serves as a key element that fosters the local urban identity in order to achieve sustainable urban development and provide residents with the essential services.
