The Impact of Recent Policies on the Transformation of Local Participatory Urban Planning in Saudi Arabia

Journal Article (2025)
Author(s)

Fouad Alasiri (TU Delft - Spatial Planning and Strategy)

M.M. Dąbrowski (TU Delft - Spatial Planning and Strategy)

R. Rocco de Campos Pereira (TU Delft - Spatial Planning and Strategy)

C. Forgaci (TU Delft - Urban Design)

Research Group
Spatial Planning and Strategy
DOI related publication
https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9030069
More Info
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Publication Year
2025
Language
English
Research Group
Spatial Planning and Strategy
Issue number
3
Volume number
9
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Abstract

This paper examines the impact of recent policies on the transformation of local participatory urban planning in Saudi Arabia since the implementation of Vision 2030 in 2016, highlighting both its potential and challenges. It analyzes the shift from centralized to localized planning at the municipal level and its effects, including increased opportunities for public participation through workshops and digital platforms, as well as the persistence of challenges such as limited public influence on final decisions and inadequate transparency in planning processes. Using a comprehensive literature review, policy document analysis, semi-structured interviews with 20 Saudi urban planners, and a survey of 453 participants, this study reveals significant governance changes. These changes include increased municipal autonomy and the establishment of regional development authorities, which have provided opportunities for local participatory planning. However, the findings also highlight concerns regarding the exclusion of marginalized communities, displacement caused by mega projects, and limited transparency in decision-making processes. While initiatives such as ‘Your Voice Is Heard’, including ‘Balady’ and ‘Istitlaa’, have facilitated a modest degree of public participation, bureaucratic barriers, regulatory complexities, and centralized control continue to hinder the full realization of local participatory planning goals. This study concludes that although policies have improved inclusivity, sustainability, and efficiency, addressing broader ethical concerns and governance challenges is essential for the transformative potential of Vision 2030 to be fully realized in reshaping urban governance in Saudi Arabia.