In this episode of the podcast, vital topics related to the design and urban planning of Saudi cities were discussed, highlighting the challenges facing these fields. Abdul Rahman Abu Malh talked with his guest Dhi Al-Dhuwyan, head of the Center for Design and Urban Planning Development for Saudi cities, about how city design in the Kingdom has become increasingly disconnected from human needs and fundamentally linked to cars. In Al-Dhuwyan’s view, Saudi cities represent isolated islands reflecting a decline in community spirit, discussing how urban planning should focus on enhancing quality of life and increasing livability.
The episode also covered the importance of specialized centers in urban planning and the role of the Ministry of Municipalities in enacting positive changes. The discussion included the role of regulations and legislation in improving the urban fabric and emphasized the necessity of collaboration among various agencies and ministries to achieve a comprehensive and effective vision. Dhi Al-Dhuwyan expressed optimism about the possibility of enhancing Saudi cities and restoring cultural and heritage identity, stressing the importance of inclusivity in urban design and community interaction with their environment.
The episode highlights the need for radical changes in how cities are designed and for reviewing existing laws and regulations to ensure the provision of suitable living spaces that align with human needs, emphasizing the role of urban design in building more humane cities that elevate the quality of life in the Kingdom.
Transformations in Urban Design in Saudi Cities
The transformations occurring in the urban design of Saudi cities represent a central topic worthy of in-depth study, as these transformations reflect fundamental changes in understanding community needs and the impact of the built environment on individuals’ quality of life. Over the decades, Saudi cities have adapted to demographic and economic changes, resulting in the design of urban spaces primarily focused on vehicles rather than pedestrians. This shift has rendered many areas isolated islands, negatively affecting social interaction and human relationships. Recently, efforts have begun to make these cities more livable by redesigning public spaces and achieving a balance between vehicle needs and people’s needs.
Unfortunately, urban design is often treated as a purely technical process, overlooking social and cultural aspects. Thus, a return to the idea of urban design that enhances community connectivity and restores the cultural identity of cities is required. By integrating arts and culture into the design process, it is possible to revive the human aspects that were lost in previous designs. For instance, public spaces can be transformed into interactive areas that encourage social gatherings and cultural activities, thereby enhancing community spirit and bringing life back to the streets.
These transformations require a comprehensive vision that includes all stakeholders, including the government, civil society, and citizens. There should be open dialogues to exchange ideas and concerns about how to better design cities. It is essential to listen to diverse perspectives to ensure that new designs meet the needs of all community segments, including children, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Moreover, this dialogue can help raise community awareness about the importance of public spaces and how to use them effectively.
Challenges and Opportunities in Improving Urban Life
Improving urban life in Saudi cities faces several challenges that require serious attention. One of the most significant challenges is the lack of appropriate infrastructure for pedestrians. Streets designed primarily to facilitate vehicle movement often lack sidewalks, making walking dangerous and uncomfortable. Furthermore, the lack of green spaces and recreational areas is a barrier to improving quality of life. This necessitates a rethinking of urban planning to include the creation of green spaces and public parks, thus promoting a healthier lifestyle.
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These challenges come with significant opportunities. The increasing awareness of the importance of sustainable urban design may drive governments and local communities to reconsider planning strategies. For example, new projects can serve as opportunities to enhance the harmony between buildings and their surrounding environment. Some government and private initiatives aim to improve public spaces by designing them in a way that accommodates various activities, encouraging greater use of these spaces and enhancing social interaction.
Moreover, urban development plans must consider climate change and its impact on urban life. Smart designs, such as the use of sustainable technologies in construction, can help reduce environmental impact and increase energy efficiency. This requires investing time and resources in education and training to qualify designers and urban engineers in the Kingdom, ensuring they have the necessary knowledge to create cities capable of facing future challenges.
Successful Experiences from Around the World
Many new ideas about urban design are based on successful experiences from cities around the world. For instance, Copenhagen in Denmark is considered a model for how to integrate walking and cycling into urban planning. The city has worked on improving infrastructure for cycling and walking, leading to increased daily use of public spaces. This has also contributed to reducing traffic congestion and air pollution, making the city a more livable place.
Similarly, Barcelona in Spain represents another example of how to transform public spaces. By creating “15-minute city” zones, where people can access all their daily needs within a 15-minute walk or bike ride, the city has succeeded in enhancing social communication and reducing reliance on cars.
These experiences demonstrate the importance of proactive planning that considers community needs and future trends. In parallel, cities should invest in education and awareness about the benefits of using public spaces, contributing to enhanced community participation. By involving residents in the design process, better outcomes that reflect their values and needs can be achieved, thereby enhancing quality of life.
Government Initiatives and the Shift Toward Sustainability
The Saudi government aims to achieve the goals of Vision 2030 through several initiatives aimed at improving urban life and promoting sustainability. These initiatives include developing integrated infrastructure that supports sustainable mobility, such as public transport projects and expanding the road network. A significant part of these efforts focuses on improving the quality of life in cities by enhancing public spaces and creating more pedestrian-friendly environments.
Through collaboration between various government entities, these initiatives can have a positive impact on the community. These projects require coordination among different ministries and agencies to ensure that plans are comprehensive and reflect local needs. Additionally, the government must promote transparency and community participation at all stages of planning and implementation.
It is important for these initiatives to recognize the need for a balance between economic development and environmental conservation. If a city succeeds in achieving this, it can become a model for other cities. Improving urban design alongside promoting sustainability will increase the attractiveness of cities and make them preferred destinations for living and working, contributing to an improved quality of life for their residents and enhancing their long-term sustainability.
This episode was summarized using artificial intelligence ezycontent
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