The Kingdom’s participation underlines its determination to modernise urban areas and deliver tangible improvements for citizens and visitors alike. Key pillars of its overarching development plan include enhancing infrastructure, boosting public services and promoting vibrant city-life. This direction aligns with broader national aims to diversify the economic base away from oil and support future growth.
Major projects illustrate the scale and ambition of the drive. In Riyadh and elsewhere the mixed-use development known as New Murabba is under construction; the project is expected to contribute significantly to non-oil gross domestic product and generate hundreds of thousands of jobs by 2030. In parallel the Jeddah Central initiative, covering more than 5.7 km², aims to deliver cultural landmarks, residential units and hospitality venues, while tapping into the tourism potential of the Red Sea coastal city.
A fresh dimension to the urban narrative emerged with two Saudi cities gaining elevation in the global cultural network. Madinah was recognised as a centre of gastronomy and Riyadh as a hub of design by the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, underscoring the country’s push to embed creativity in urban transformation.
While government-backed programmes and international support reinforce the commitment, analysts caution the Kingdom faces complex challenges. Urban-planning experts observe that scaling infrastructure, ensuring fair community relocation and maintaining sustainability standards require consistent oversight. Past international engagement via the United Nations Human Settlements Programme helped align urban development efforts with global sustainable-development goals, specifically on inclusivity and resilience.
Public-service upgrades are already visible in mobility, digital governance and waste-management systems. For example, a study detailing a smart waste-management system in one Saudi city highlighted how Internet of Things sensors help monitor container levels and alert authorities when needed, reducing environmental impact and aligning with smart-city ideals.
The emphasis on people-centred design is clear from official statements. Urban officials highlight that walkability, green spaces and community-oriented services must underpin future cities, not just skyscrapers or headline projects. In the practical realm that means expanding public transport, strengthening basic services, and protecting heritage while promoting growth.
Critics nonetheless point to the pace and scale of projects as raising questions about feasibility. Some independent observers argue that the formidable cost and long-term horizon of mega-developments generate risk, and that ensuring equitable outcomes for local populations remains key. Careful coordination among municipalities, developers and civil society will determine whether the lofty goals translate into urban environments that everyday residents experience positively.
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Saudi Arabia