WUF13 in Baku: What comes next for global urban development?

The World Urban Forum 13 in Baku brought together global urban leaders to discuss how cities are adapting to climate pressures, digital transformation and inequality. While the discussions were ambitious, the real test remains whether these ideas will translate into practical urban change.

Abdelrahman Ghalib Alzou’bi, an urban planner speaking to AnewZ, said urban resilience is now central to global development discussions.
“WUF is really targeting one of the main themes, which is housing and how it is connected to urban resilience and climate,” he noted.

Housing affordability and inclusive urban growth were also key themes, with a focus on balancing modernisation with social equity. Alzou’bi stressed that cities must function as inclusive spaces for all communities.

Smart cities and digital transformation

Digital transformation and smart city systems emerged as key themes of the forum. Experts discussed how AI, digital governance, and smart mobility are reshaping urban management and public services.

The analyst said digital transformation has become unavoidable in modern city planning.
“It is now shaping the dialogue in urban development agendas across institutions and municipalities,” he said.

Inclusive and affordable cities

Housing affordability and inclusive urban growth were also central topics, with emphasis on balancing modernisation with social equity.

Alzou’bi also highlighted the importance of inclusion in urban design when he said, “Cities must be blending spaces where all communities come together,”.

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Sustainable transport was another key focus, with discussions on integrated public systems and low-emission mobility networks. Participants stressed the importance of efficient connectivity in modern cities.

Regional cooperation and global partnerships

The forum also emphasised the importance of international collaboration in solving urban challenges. However, experts underlined the need to localise global discussions.

Alzou’bi explained that initiatives like the Arab European and Arab Asian cities dialogues aim to strengthen regional cooperation.
“We want to bring the dialogue closer to local priorities and connect cities, mayors, and development actors in a more targeted way,” he said.

Urban financing and future development

Financing and public-private partnerships were identified as critical tools for future urban development.

Alzou’bi said future cities will depend on more collaborative funding models involving governments and international partners.

As WUF13 concluded in Baku, participants emphasised that its success will ultimately depend on implementation, particularly as the world approaches the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

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World Urban Forum Urban Planning Sustainable Cities Climate Resilience