Cities across the Middle East are growing at remarkable speed. Yet the approaches that once guided urban planning and development are no longer enough to meet the demands of today’s interconnected, fast-changing world.

To explore what the next decade of urban life in the region could look like, Al-Futtaim brought together voices from government, the private sector, regional think tanks, and non-governmental organisations for an industry roundtable. The discussion focused on how these groups can work together to build cities that are more liveable, inclusive, and resilient.

A clear message emerged: meaningful progress will depend on genuine collaboration between public and private sectors. Governments can shape the long-term vision and set clear priorities, while creating space for innovation through flexible regulations, pilot programmes, and practical support.

The private sector, in turn, must look beyond short-term profits and focus on creating shared value that benefits communities and the environment alike.

Participants also emphasised the importance of aligning policies and regulations across the region. Consistent and balanced frameworks are needed to encourage investment and make it easier to integrate emerging mobility solutions. Delivering change will require both short-term actions, such as improving public transport links and walkable infrastructure. Meanwhile, longer-term reforms are needed to guide shifts in culture and behaviour towards more sustainable travel choices.

Better access to reliable data was another key theme that emerged at the roundtable. Participants proposed creating a shared “decision support hub” that would allow open data exchange between public and private players. This would help fill critical gaps in planning and ensure decisions are based on evidence and real community needs, not just high-end market trends.

Finally, mobility must be treated as a central part of city-making, not an afterthought. That means developers, policymakers, and businesses working hand in hand to design neighbourhoods where transport, affordable housing, and daily life are seamlessly connected. By doing so, they can help people choose sustainable options naturally, not by obligation.

With its strong track record in innovation and investment, the GCC has an opportunity to set an example for the world, showing how modern cities can grow while staying people-focused, connected, and sustainable for generations to come.

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