Doha: Under the patronage of HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, Qatar inaugurated the 6th Arab Ministerial Forum on Housing and Sustainable Urban Development 2025. The event, opened by HE Minister of Social Development and Family Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr Al Nuaimi, is held under the slogan "urban sustainability... for the future of generations."
According to Qatar News Agency, Minister Al Nuaimi emphasized Qatar's dedication to enhancing urban environments, improving quality of life, and promoting citizen well-being through modernized urban policies, upgraded community services, and sustainable infrastructure. She highlighted Qatar's focus on enhancing urban resilience, providing diverse housing options, and aligning urban planning with smart cities and digital transformation.
Al Nuaimi addressed the broader regional challenges, noting that the Arab world faces growing urban populations, expanding housing needs, infrastructure issues, and environmental sustainability challenges. She stressed the necessity of long-term urban planning that integrates social, economic, and environmental dimensions and relies on cooperation among governments, the private sector, and civil society.
The minister underscored the importance of investing in city rehabilitation, enhancing service efficiency, updating urban legislation, and creating attractive urban environments. She expressed hope that the forum discussions on urban planning and sustainability would help shape actionable strategies for Arab cities. Al Nuaimi also emphasized the need for flexible policies, innovative solutions, and strengthened Arab cooperation.
HE Assistant Secretary-General of the Arab League, Ambassador Dr. Ali bin Ibrahim Al Malki, affirmed Qatar's commitment to supporting housing and sustainable urban development in the Arab region. He emphasized the forum's role in addressing challenges such as urbanization and climate change, and the importance of developing smart, efficient housing solutions.
Ambassador Al Malki highlighted the forum's context, addressing the situation in Gaza and the importance of humanitarian aid. He explained the need to localize the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to suit regional needs, emphasizing resilience and sustainability in reconstruction efforts.
Regional Director of UN-Habitat for the Arab States, Rania Hedaya, expressed the office's commitment to supporting Arab efforts in sustainable urban development. She noted the forum's importance amid demographic shifts and urban challenges, underscoring the significance of adequate housing as a social right.
The three-day forum includes sessions on housing policies, urban planning, regional cooperation, and innovations in housing. It features workshops on smart cities, reconstruction strategies, and sustainable urban environments. The event concludes with joint recommendations and an Arab roadmap for sustainable urban development.
The forum also includes an exhibition showcasing innovative urban projects and national initiatives. Qatar's hosting of the forum reflects its commitment to advancing urban development, strengthening Arab cooperation, and showcasing its pioneering experience in social and urban development.