At the 2025 World Planning Congress, ISOCARP calls on 'Cities & Regions in Action', to analyze, discuss, and search for better pathways for urban and regional planning aiming at improving the quality of life of citizens beyond the current time of volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity of crisis convergence and building resilience. The Congress also presents an opportunity to explore the possibilities of urban development for dynamic cities, reflect on alternative ways of planning yet at the same time think collectively on scalable solutions to the similar challenges that all cities and regions around the globe are called to face.

Artificial Intelligence is transforming how we plan, design, and manage cities, but in urban planning, the challenge is to move beyond the buzzwords and apply AI meaningfully to real contexts. Organised together with the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia (IAAC), this two-day programme (exclusively for registered Congress participants) held just before the 61st ISOCARP World Planning Congress offers a practical, hands-on introduction to applying no-code AI skills in urban contexts. Designed for planners, architects, researchers, and policy professionals, the programme explores AI’s role in tackling key challenges such as zero-carbon mobility, urban regeneration, evaluating public space, and climate-adaptive city simulations. Participants will gain the skills to turn AI insights into actionable planning strategies that bridge technology, policy, and design.

As part of the 61st ISOCARP World Planning Congress (WPC61), the 2025 YPP Workshop will bring together emerging planners and urbanists in Riyadh under the theme “Designing for Walkability & Liveability: Multi-Scalar Public Space Strategies.” Over five immersive days, participants will collaborate with experts Dr. Luisa Bravo, Luca De Stefano, MSc, and Mohamed Hassan, MSc to explore key urban sites—from the historic Al Batha area to the civic core and the dynamic Irqah District. Through fieldwork, analysis, and design, they will develop actionable strategies that enhance mobility, climate comfort, and quality of life while reinforcing Riyadh’s cultural identity, culminating in presentations to city leaders and the global planning community.