Cities are at the frontline of response to multiple crises that the contemporary world faces, which, if managed well, could open up tremendous possible futures for the way we plan, manage, and govern cities. As a home for already more than half of the world’s population, centers of innovation, magnets of talent, and locus of economic productivity, cities are uniquely placed to reflect on the quality of life, address well-being, and prototype solutions to global problems, capturing advances in Artificial Intelligence for the benefit of all people. At the same time, cities are called to lead the response to the climate crisis through localizing global frames of reference towards urban resilience.
At the 2025 World Planning Congress, ISOCARP calls on "Cities & Regions in Action: Planning Pathways to Resilience and Quality of Life," to analyze, discuss, and search for better pathways for urban and regional planning aiming at improving the quality of life of citizens beyond the current time of volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity of crisis convergence and building resilience. The Congress also presents an opportunity to explore the possibilities of urban development for dynamic cities, reflect on alternative ways of planning yet at the same time think collectively on scalable solutions to the similar challenges that all cities and regions around the globe are called to face.
 Prof Greg ClarkSenior Advisor on Cities, Regions, and Urban Futures Cities, Regions, and Urban Futures Urban Futures Cities, Regions, a n |  Managing Director, Geografia Pty Ltd Managing Director, Geografia Pty Ltd Ltd Ltd Ltd |  Lead of Sustainable Urban Development Portfolio, United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (UNESCWA) |  Bartlett Professor of Cities and Regions, Centre for Advanced Spatial Analysis, University College London (UNESCWA) |  Professor Emeritus in the Department of City and Regional Planning at Yıldız Technical University, Türkiye University, Türkiye University, Türkiye |
We are pleased to invite you to register for the 61st ISOCARP World Planning Congress in Riyadh. Join leading urban professionals, researchers, and policymakers from around the world as we shape inclusive, sustainable, and resilient cities together. We look forward to welcoming you to Riyadh in 2025!
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Participants can expect a dynamic program, featuring a variety of research paper sessions, workshops, special sessions, and keynote presentations. These will delve into five key thematic tracks: sustainable urban growth in a world of crises, the impact of the digital age on urban economies, adaptation to extreme climatic conditions, cultural identity and inclusive urban transformation, and the governance of agile cities. The congress will also highlight innovative approaches to planning and governance, with a focus on enhancing the quality of life and resilience in cities and regions worldwide.
In addition to the technical sessions, the congress will provide a unique opportunity for site visits in Riyadh, offering firsthand insights into the city's transformative urban initiatives. Special sessions will cover topics like AI in planning, cities in action, and the role of Riyadh in shaping future urban development. Attendees will also engage with key thought leaders in urban planning through a series of plenary sessions and networking events, including the opening reception and gala dinner.
The Congress offers a rich program that not only offers cutting-edge insights into urban planning but also fosters collaboration and knowledge-sharing among global experts.
**This is a tentative Congress Programme and not the final version.
Thank you for your submissions!
The Call for Contributions for the 61st ISOCARP World Planning Congress in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is now closed. We thank all urbanists, researchers, practitioners, and policymakers from around the world who submitted their abstracts and proposals.
Submissions are currently under review by our Congress Team. Applicants will be notified of the outcomes within the timeframe listed in the Important Dates section. In the meantime, stay connected with us and explore more about the Congress Tracks, Programme, and Registration Information.
