Welcome Message to the 61st ISOCARP World Planning Congress –
Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Dear Colleagues and Partners,
It is my distinct honor and privilege to welcome you to the 61st ISOCARP World Planning Congress (WPC61), to be held in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from 1–4 December 2025, under the inspiring theme: "Cities and Regions in Action: Planning Pathways to Resilience and Quality of Life."
As one of ISOCARP's flagship initiatives, the World Planning Congress serves as a premier global platform for the exchange of ideas and practices and for knowledge sharing and creation among a diverse and distinguished community of policymakers, urban and regional planners, academics, practitioners, students, and thought leaders. Each year, the Congress facilitates vital conversations that shape the trajectory of planning for cities and regions worldwide, advancing inclusive, sustainable, and forward-thinking development strategies.
This year's theme underscores the urgent need for proactive, integrated planning approaches that strengthen resilience and enhance quality of life. It invites us to explore how urban and regional planning can become a powerful instrument of transformation-building communities that are not only adaptive to emerging challenges, but also inclusive, equitable, and thriving.
We are especially proud to host WPC61 in Riyadh, a city undergoing a remarkable transformation driven by strategic vision, innovation, and cultural depth. Riyadh's leadership in urban development offers a compelling context for dialogue, collaboration, and learning, and positions the Middle East as a pivotal region in the global planning discourse.
On behalf of ISOCARP, I warmly invite members and non-members alike to join us in Riyadh for this important occasion. Your presence and contributions will enrich the Congress and help shape its impact on global urban and regional planning.
I would like to extend our deepest appreciation to our host, the Riyadh Region Municipality, under the visionary leadership of His Highness Prince Faisal bin Abdul Aziz bin Ayyaf, for their unwavering support and partnership.
A special note of thanks also goes to ISOCARP President, Ms. Elisabeth Belpaire, for her continued leadership, and to the Congress organizing team for their exceptional dedication and professionalism.
We look forward to welcoming you to Riyadh for an engaging, thought-provoking, and impactful Congress.
 | Warm regards, Dr. Wafa Al-Daily Executive Board Member | Board Director of Congresses and Events |