Cairo, November 6, 2024 – Al Baha Municipality participated in the 12th annual World Urban Forum (WUF12), organized by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) in Cairo, Egypt. The forum, which brings together urban stakeholders from around the globe to discuss the future of cities, provided a prominent platform for Saudi Arabia to highlight its commitment to sustainable urban development. Al Baha Municipality’s engagement at the event underscored the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's leading role in shaping the future of urban environments, aligning with the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
During its participation, the municipality showcased the strides made by Saudi Arabia in transforming urban landscapes, focusing on a variety of initiatives designed to foster sustainable development across the Kingdom. Dr. Ali bin Mohammad Al-Sawat, Mayor of Al Baha Region, emphasized that the municipality’s presentation highlighted the Kingdom’s pioneering urban development experiences, particularly those unique to the Al Baha region. This included key initiatives designed to meet the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in areas such as urban planning, transportation, environmental sustainability, and community well-being.
The municipality’s focus during WUF12 also covered essential aspects of urban life that are central to the Kingdom’s development vision, including comprehensive urban planning, sustainable transportation networks, community engagement, waste management and recycling programs, green spaces, and innovative strategies to address environmental challenges. These elements reflect the Kingdom’s broader efforts to create vibrant, sustainable urban environments that contribute to improved quality of life for residents while reducing the environmental footprint.
Moreover, Al Baha Municipality used the event to spotlight Saudi Arabia’s transformation of its cities into adaptable, sustainable communities that are both forward-thinking and resilient to future challenges. The municipality’s showcase included innovations and localized solutions aimed at enhancing urban living standards, preserving natural resources, and promoting environmental stewardship.
Dr. Al-Sawat also reiterated that Al Baha’s participation in WUF12 is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the region’s international presence and expand its influence in the fields of urban development, innovation, and sustainability. By sharing its progress at the forum, the municipality is positioning itself as a key player in the global conversation around sustainable urbanization, while also reinforcing its commitment to transforming Al Baha into a model of modern, sustainable urban living.
In line with Saudi Arabia’s broader strategic vision, Al Baha Municipality is particularly focused on integrating cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions into urban infrastructure, project management, and data analysis. These efforts are intended to deliver optimal outcomes for residents and communities, ensuring that urban development is not only efficient and modern but also sustainable and inclusive. The municipality is committed to delivering a sustainable urban model that not only addresses current needs but also anticipates and adapts to future demands, ensuring long-term prosperity for its citizens and the environment.
The municipality's participation at WUF12 further strengthens its role as a key player in the global push for sustainable urban development, showcasing the Kingdom’s ambition to be at the forefront of innovations in urban design, sustainability, and quality of life for all.
