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.
In partnership with King Saud University and with the generous financial support of the Riyadh Region Municipality, ISOCARP is pleased to announce the launch of its first-ever Student Twinning Program, a milestone initiative in the organization's history. The Student Twinning Program of the 61st ISOCARP World Planning Congress (WPC61) invites undergraduate students (2nd or 3rd year and above) and master's students in planning and related fields, including architecture, landscape architecture, and urban design, to apply for a unique international learning experience held alongside the Congress in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from 1–4 December 2025. The Student Twinning Program covers congress fees, travels and accommodations. As part of ISOCARP's strong commitment to cultivating the next generation of planners, this program is a core component of the Congress youth track. It reflects the Society's dedication to bringing students and young planners into the heart of the planning profession, helping them build the skills, perspectives, and global connections needed to shape the cities of the future. Application Form for Student Twinning Program→ |  |
The Twinning Program promotes cross-cultural learning, collaboration, and shared exploration of urban futures. Students from Saudi Arabia will be paired with international peers to learn from one another, engage in guided activities, and co-create reflections on the challenges and opportunities shaping tomorrow's urban environments.
The ISOCARP Scholarship aims to empower undergraduate and graduate students, as well as young planning professionals, to engage directly with the global planning community at WPC61. It offers a unique opportunity for emerging planners to share their perspectives, learn from leading experts, and participate in shaping the future of cities.
Through this program, scholars will gain exposure to innovative practices, connect with peers from around the world, and contribute to discussions on how planning can respond to global challenges such as urbanization, climate change, technology, and social equity.
Scholarship Coverage
Applicants should submit the following materials in one PDF file:
Deadline: 19 November 2025 |  |
