Riyadh Municipality, in collaboration with the International Society of City and Regional Planners (ISOCARP), has announced an extension of the deadline for submitting scientific abstracts for the 61st ISOCARP World Planning Council scheduled to be held in the capital from December 1 to 4, 2025 until July 7, 2025. This decision comes in response to the high level of international interest and aims to provide more opportunities for participation from experts and specialists around the world.

The Council, coinciding with the diamond jubilee of ISOCARP’s founding, will showcase emerging research, modern planning practices, and transformative ideas that contribute to building resilient, inclusive, and sustainable urban futures. Participants will include academics, urban planners, practitioners, and policymakers from various countries.

The Council will focus on five main themes:

• Sustainable Urban Growth in the Face of Multiple Crises.
• Urban Economy and Artificial Intelligence.
• Climate Adaptation for Dynamic Cities.
• Culture and Identity in Urban Transformation.
• Agile Urban Governance.

Hosting the World Planning Council in Riyadh aligns with the municipality’s efforts to strengthen the capital’s position as a global hub for urban planning and knowledge exchange. It also reflects the commitment of the Riyadh Municipality to achieving sustainable urban development that enhances quality of life, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.