October is the month when the world comes together to celebrate, reflect, and mobilize around the future of our cities. Through a series of milestones – World Habitat Day (4 October), World Metropolitan Day (7 October) and World Cities Day (31 October) – we are reminded that cities are at the heart of humanity’s most pressing challenges and greatest opportunities.

This year’s World Cities Day theme, “Financing sustainable urban future for all”, aligns strongly with ISOCARP’s mission to advance knowledge, innovation, and collaboration in planning and urban development. Financing resilient, inclusive, and sustainable cities is not only a technical challenge but also a question of political will, partnerships, and global solidarity.

Local and regional leaders are essential in this process. They need greater empowerment, direct access to climate and development finance, and integrated metropolitan and territorial planning frameworks that connect local action with global impact. Stronger institutions, inclusive governance, and adequate resources are crucial for turning visionary plans into tangible outcomes for people and communities.

Urban October highlights how local leadership, planning, and innovation are central to shaping equitable, resilient, and sustainable urban futures.

Call to Action: Join Us in Riyadh

Looking ahead, ISOCARP will convene its 61st World Planning Congress in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (1–4 December 2025) under the theme “Cities and Regions in Action: Planning Pathways to Resilience and Quality of Life.” The Congress will be a unique moment to build on the momentum of Urban October, translating dialogue into action and partnerships.

We invite all planners, city leaders, and partners to:

  • Engage in our online Pre-Congress starting 8 November, coinciding with World Town Planning Day.
  • Join us in Riyadh in December for a global exchange on how planning can bridge climate action, urban resilience, housing, and inclusive development.

Together, let us use Urban October as a springboard for collective impact and reaffirm our commitment to sustainable urban futures.