Three Days of Dialogue, Partnerships, and Shared Urban Ambition
The AECD 2025 closing session concluded three days of dialogue, partnership, and shared ambition. Dr. Anas Almughairy, AUDI Director General, reflected on the forum’s impact, highlighting the launch of AECD’s flagship report on city-to-city cooperation and the 110+ bilateral meetings that reinforced its role in municipal diplomacy. The new governance framework was recognized as a […]
Launching “Bridging Cities” Report
The AECD 2025 also saw the launch of the joint BCG–AUDI report, “Bridging Cities: Exploring Solutions for Shared Challenges”. The discussion highlighted how digital transformation, climate risks, and fiscal pressures are converging—and explored how Arab and European cities can address these challenges together.
Insights from Funding Institutions
Financial institutions prioritize urban projects that are well-prepared, scalable, and strategically aligned. Cities should start with a solid needs assessment rooted in citizen priorities and service gaps. Integrating safety, inclusion, and sustainability from the outset strengthens funding prospects and long-term impact. Public–private partnerships succeed where governance is strong, legal frameworks are clear, and fiscal discipline […]
City-to-City Networking
A high-energy networking experience brought together 65 city delegations under the theme “One City, One Image, One Story.” Designed as a fast-paced and interactive format, the session enabled cities to present their unique urban narratives, exchange experiences, and identify opportunities for collaboration – laying the groundwork for future city-to-city partnerships and scalable urban solutions.
Beyond Borders
A strategic dialogue on how cross-regional collaboration can accelerate urban innovation, resilience, and inclusive growth. Panel Speakers: H.E. Dr. Yousef Shawarbeh, Mayor of Amman. H.E. Fathia El Moudni, Mayor of Rabat and President of Metropolis. Mr. José Luis Martínez-Almeida, Mayor of Madrid. Ms. Emilia Saiz, Secretary General, United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG). Moderator: Dr. […]
In Conversation
An exclusive conversation with CEOs and industry leaders exploring Riyadh’s transformation journey, lessons learned, and opportunities for public–private collaboration. Panel Speakers: Mr. Jerry Inzerillo, Group Chief Executive Officer of Diriyah Company. Ms. Jayne McGivern, Chief Executive Officer of the Sports Boulevard Foundation. Mr. George Tanasijevich, Chief Executive Officer of the King Salman Park Foundation. Moderator: […]
City-Led Project Pitches
The second session of the Urban Financing Forum featured live investment pitches by city leaders presenting urban infrastructure, resilience, and mobility initiatives. Eight cities—Nice, Djibouti, Ramallah, Chișinău, Madrid, Dammam, Erbil, and Nouakchott—showcased projects ranging from large-scale regeneration to community-based climate adaptation. Institutional representatives from the UN Road Safety Fund, Saudi Fund for Development, African Finance […]