The Middle East has seen the fastest growing urban populations in the world for the past 50 years and longer – with growth consistently higher than in China or Africa. As a result, over 70% of people live in urban areas across the region, bringing it to the level of Europe. The Gulf Countries is one of the most highly urbanized parts of the world with 85% of the population living in cities today, expected to rise to 90% by 2050.

The future of urbanization & urban planning in ME is subject to political stability in the region, especially in countries facing conflicts and wars (Libya, Yemen, Syria, Iraq, Palestine, etc.). Urbanization & urban planning in other stable countries  like (Jordan, Egypt, Iran, Turkey, S. Arabia, and Gulf countries) will continue to develop according to their development plans and planning vision.

Cities in group of ME countries (e.g. Gulf countries) will continue to become global cities in terms of being sustainable and smart cities. The Gulf region has the capacity to attract a greater number of global citizens, foreign investors, and global corporations. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha are all in a good position to become global corporate hubs.

Conference Title

The “Belt and Road” Industrialization, Urbanization, and Spatial Planning Training Workshop (Phase I Online)

Conference Country

China

Conference Date

Oct. 16, 2021 - Oct. 16, 2021

Conference Sponsor

Southeast University, Nanjing, China