Can rapid urbanization be sustainable? The case of Saudi Arabian cities

Abstract

This paper inquires: can sustainable urbanization be realized in Saudi Arabian cities? It addresses this question by (i) analyzing the relationship between sustainable development and urbanization in the Global South, (ii) examining the urbanization–urban planning collision in Saudi Arabian cities, and (iii) assessing the situational impediments to and enablers of sustainable urbanization in Saudi Arabia. Using critical literature review, findings show that rapid urbanization, amidst urban planning inadequacy, fundamentally remains a threat to sustainable urbanization in Global South countries. In addition, urbanization in Saudi Arabian cities is characterized by socio-spatial, land use planning and environmental vulnerabilities, producing more costs than benefits. A key contribution from this paper relates to the embeddedness of socio-spatial factors and land use planning systems in the production of environmental vulnerabilities. The paper deeply engaged with sustainable urbanization from an urban planning perspective in the Arabian context to demonstrate the limited framing of sustainable development. Recommendations to strengthen resilience, inclusiveness, and sustainable development are proffered.