COP16 Riyadh: A Milestone for Land Restoration
Sheher Saaz’s Weekly Newsletter / Edition: 2 / December 5, 2024
The 16th session of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (COP16) is taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from December 2-13, 2024. This critical summit is focused on tackling desertification, land degradation, and drought resilience, key issues for the region. COP16Riyadh aims to accelerate global efforts to restore land and boost drought resilience, marking a renewed commitment to environmental action.Source: UNCCD
World Investment Conference: New Horizons for Urban Development
The World Investment Conference held in Riyadh this December has showcased cutting-edge opportunities in sustainable urban development. Investors and policymakers discussed strategies for integrating climate action into major infrastructure projects, with a focus on sustainable investments that align with global climate goals.Source: Gulf News
Riyadh Metro Inauguration: A Leap Towards Sustainability
The grand inauguration of the Riyadh Metro on November 27, 2024, represents a monumental step in sustainable urban mobility. The metro system, part of the kingdom’s Saudi Vision 2030 , aims to reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and connect key urban centers across Riyadh.Source: Arab News
Industry Trends
The Rise of Smart Infrastructure: AI and Data in Urban Planning
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data is transforming the way cities are designed and managed. Recent studies indicate that AI is being used to optimize urban services such as traffic flow, waste management, and energy use. Cities like Singapore and Barcelona are leading the charge in implementing AI-driven solutions to create more efficient, livable spaces. According to a report from QuantumBlack, AI by McKinsey , AI’s role is pivotal in reducing urban carbon footprints by enhancing energy efficiency and transportation networks.Source: McKinsey & Company, Source: Smart Cities Dive.
Sustainability through Smart Mobility: The Future of Transportation
With increasing urbanization, cities are shifting towards sustainable mobility systems to reduce congestion and improve air quality. The concept of “smart mobility,” which integrates electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous transportation, and multimodal transport networks, is gaining significant attention. According to a recent article by the World Economic Forum , cities like Amsterdam and Copenhagen are setting examples by embracing smart mobility strategies, which help reduce the environmental impact while improving connectivity. These innovative approaches are critical for creating cities that are both sustainable and adaptable.Source: World Economic Forum, Source: Cities Today.
Sheher Saaz News & Insights
Expanding Horizons: Mr. Khurram Farid’s KSA Business Tour
Mr. Khurram Farid Bargatt , Managing Director of Sheher Saaz , has completed a successful business tour’s first phase in Saudi Arabia, aimed at enhancing Sheher Saaz Private Limited’s presence and operations in the region. The tour focused on building new partnerships with key stakeholders, aligning with the Saudi Vision 2030 objectives of urban development and sustainability. This step is crucial for strengthening Sheher Saaz’s foothold in the Middle East market.
Celebrating Excellence: Mr. Umair Haris’s Birthday
On November 29, Sheher Saaz Private Limited all teams celebrated the birthday of Mr. Umair Haris, a key member of our team, whose contributions to sustainable urban development continue to inspire us. His work on various regional projects has been pivotal in shaping our company’s future.
World Wildlife Conservation Day: A Commitment to Nature
On December 4, Sheher Saaz joined the global community in observing World Wildlife Conservation Day. This day serves as a reminder of our responsibility to protect biodiversity and natural habitats. Our ongoing projects reflect this commitment to sustainability, focusing on eco-friendly designs that safeguard the environment.
Middle East Focus
COP29: Azerbaijan’s Role in Climate Action
As COP29 Azerbaijan approaches, Azerbaijan is positioning itself as a key player in global climate discussions. With its unique geography and commitment to sustainability, Azerbaijan is focusing on land restoration, water management, and energy transitions. This sets a powerful example for countries in the region to follow suit.Source: UNFCCC
Saudi Arabia’s Green Commitment: The Next Step
Saudi Arabia continues to invest heavily in renewable energy as part of its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060. This includes major projects like the Al-Faisaliah solar park, which is set to become one of the largest in the Middle East. Such investments align with the nation’s sustainability agenda under Vision 2030.Source: Saudi Green Initiative
Pakistan’s Urban Challenges
Karachi’s Smart City Initiative: Moving Towards a Sustainable Future
Karachi is embracing smart technologies to combat its urban challenges. Recent initiatives include expanding the city’s public transport network and implementing green infrastructure solutions to improve air quality. Urban planners are optimistic about the potential for these initiatives to drive sustainable development.Source: The News
Academia
Innovative Urban Design Research at MIT and Harvard
Leading universities such as Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University are continuously advancing research on urban sustainability, with MIT focusing on how AI can optimize urban design and Harvard exploring the integration of green spaces in densely populated cities. These academic discussions offer fresh perspectives on climate resilience and urban regeneration.Learn more: MIT Urban Planning Research, Harvard Urban Design Program.
Sustainable Cities Graduate Programs in the Middle East
In a new move to align with Saudi Vision 2030, universities across the Middle East, including the KAUST (King Abdullah University of Science and Technology), are launching specialized graduate programs focused on sustainable urban development. These programs are designed to equip students with the skills necessary to lead future climate-conscious cities.Learn more: KAUST Sustainability Program.
