TOMORROW.BUILDING

Decades of government and philanthropic policies have facilitated economically stagnant zones where people measure their success by how far they get away. This talent-extraction paradigm makes them far more vulnerable to real estate speculation and displacement, and removes individuals with spending power, day to day examples of success, and the investment and financial acumen needed to build local economies.

To enhance citizens’ well-being, we need to put citizens’ needs in front. And we need to focus on softer technology prioritizing flexibility, adaptability, and people-first approaches. How can digital engagement platforms help foster strong, inclusive communities and how can we better leverage emotional intelligence as a crucial foundation for decision-making and design?

By drawing on examples from a number of cities across the continent, this presentation will explore the extent to which place and space matter, in the age of platforms, social media and digital tools, and essentially offers an alternative conception of smart cities. Rather than seeing the smart city as an ideal to be achieved and yet to be implemented, the argument here is that technology infused livelihoods and everyday innovations are what define the digital age. The smart city exists, in the urban everyday, and is continuously being reinvented.

How are the latest technological advances transforming the way we build and inhabit our cities? The impact of technologies like Digital Twins, IoT, AI, and advanced construction techniques on the urban environment is undeniable. These innovations are revolutionizing urban planning, construction, and infrastructure usage, enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and resilience. It is vital to harness these technologies to make cities more sustainable, inclusive, and tech-forward.

This session will feature the participation of our global partners Dassault Systèmes

How can urban planning prioritize community well-being, cater to the diverse needs of residents, and enhance the overall city-living experience? This roundtable focuses on the power of urban planning and landscaping in promoting sustainable, equitable, and resilient cities. Discussions will analyze innovative trends in city planning and strategies to address current challenges, providing a platform for urban innovators to share experiences related to building inclusive and resilient cities.

This session will feature the participation of our global partners NOVA IMS

What does it take to build the cities of the future? Understanding the transformative power of the innovations that are shaping modern urban landscapes is crucial. By showcasing cutting-edge novelties in construction, infrastructure, and urban planning, this session provides insights into the strategies implemented to create resilient, sustainable, and inclusive urban environments.

This session will feature the participation of our global partners ROSHN, Saudi Aramco

How are advancements in construction techniques reshaping the built environment? The path to resilient and eco-friendly urban development lies in smart construction. This session will explore the pivotal role of new construction methods and mindsets in achieving sustainable, efficient, and resilient cities. It will delve into innovative approaches to new technologies in building techniques, and design innovations contributing to the urban centers of the future.

This session will feature the participation of our global partners Dassault Systèmes and Bentley Systems.

This dialogue discusses the role of smart city infrastructure in revolutionizing urban environments for the World Cup 2026 and beyond. By harnessing innovation now, cities pave the way for sustainable development that emphasizes community engagement, improved quality of life and inclusivity.

Strategic urban design and sustainable event planning are vital to preparing cities for hosting global events and tourism. This session will explore innovative building solutions and cutting-edge urban planning, highlighting smart tourism and internationalization in alignment with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Can cities leverage innovative infrastructure and smart technologies to prepare for hosting major international events and enhance smart tourism while ensuring long-term benefits for their citizens?

Urban transformation often faces hurdles in gaining community buy-in and navigating political landscapes. A way to bridge the gap between aspirations for change and the reality of implementation remains in communicating well about the co-benefits of the urban design changes. In this session, C40 will delve into the critical question of garnering support from both residents and political decision-makers to create green and thriving neighborhoods.

‘Ciudad y Territorio Digital’ from the Observatorio 2030 integrates the digitalization of the built environment at all levels, from rural areas to cities, focusing on the technological impact to improve mobility, the definition of public spaces, and universal accessibility. It addresses the optimization of energy, water, and waste and the possibilities that digitalization offers to the construction process of our cities and towns.

Cities and the private sector must join forces to develop a zero-carbon, resilient, and inclusive urban regeneration model. What are the strategies that cities can uptake? What is the private sector’s role? This session will showcase best practices and flagship urban regeneration projects including Reinventing Cities - a powerful initiative involving 30 global cities and over 3500 businesses to date.

Following the examples of Barcelona and Munich, we will discuss how cities are leading the development of local digital twins to support urban decision-making and citizen engagement. Why cities should have a digital twin? What are the challenges of implementing these technologies at the local level?

Urban design is being revolutionized by cutting-edge advancements, enabling the creation of advanced and sustainable cities. This session covers the high-tech tools that make it possible to design the world's most advanced cities. What are the implications of these technologies for city living, and their impact on urban environments and residents' quality of life? How are digital tools shaping the design process for buildings, infrastructures, and entire cities?

This session will feature the participation of our global partners SDAIA

Dive into the ambitious journey of Sunderland UK, as it sets new standards in urban planning, digital infrastructure and smart city development. Highlighting the city's advancements in prioritising community wellbeing, creating vibrant and resilient communities and enhancing the safety and sustainability of the city’s environment. Shaping a more inclusive and connected urban future – a blueprint for innovation and long-term growth.

What emerging trends and technological advancements are influencing property management and utilization? This session explores the latest innovations in real estate, covering asset management, housing, and collaborative tools. Gain insights into how these technologies are reshaping lifestyles and work environments, providing a comprehensive look at the future of real estate in a technology-driven world.

This session will feature the participation of our global partners ROSHN

The European region Baden-Wuerttemberg – THE LÄND is home to innovative and international key players in science and economy that are continuously developing and testing smart city solutions for energy-efficient building and construction. This session explores the critical role of replication in the context of smart city projects, focusing on the successful transfer of innovations from pilot initiatives to widespread urban application.

How is the building sector adapting to city sustainability initiatives? How can the built environment help mitigate urban climate change impacts? This session delves into new construction practices that align with city-level sustainability goals. Discussions will explore the challenges and opportunities for the building sector in supporting urban sustainability objectives, particularly in combating climate change and achieving decarbonization targets.

Cities are where the impacts of extreme heat events are felt hardest. Extreme heat events have been identified as the most lethal of climate-related disasters, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations including the elderly, economically and socially disadvantaged, and those with disabilities. This session shares lessons from C40 cities on how they act to cool neighborhoods and buildings and protect their residents.

The Ukraine Facility is the European Union’s main investment instrument for Ukraine up to 2027, worth EUR 50 billion, whose key aim is to foster partnerships between Ukrainian and European businesses. One of the main pillars of the Facility is the 'Ukraine Investment Framework' (UIF), designed to attract and mobilise public and private investments for Ukraine's recovery and reconstruction. It is therefore of critical strategic importance that companies both in Ukraine and the European Union can make the best of the opportunities available under the UIF; to learn precisely how they can avail of these instruments to drive Ukraine’s reconstruction and recovery

Melike Altınışık’s presentation explores the captivating synergy that emerges when nature, architecture, and technology intersect. She emphasizes the power of cross-disciplinary collaboration in driving innovation, highlighting notable achievements from MAA’s diverse portfolio. From the futuristic 369-meter Çamlıca Tower in Istanbul to the groundbreaking Robot and AI Museum in Seoul, Altınışık illustrates how blending natural inspiration with technological expertise creates architectural spaces that harmoniously integrate with their surroundings.

Giuseppe Masanotti, as a member of the design team, will illustrate the visionary project for the Levi-Montalcini Foundation's new headquarters. This is, out of doubt, a pioneering, eco-sustainable project, integrating innovative and experimental solutions. Designed by Giancarlo Zema Design Group, the building will feature biochar-infused concrete, 3D-printed eco-cement structures, a vertiport for electric passengers drone and a photovoltaic roof, setting new standards for sustainable architecture.

How can smart infrastructures be designed to adapt to evolving city dynamics? This session highlights cutting-edge advancements in smart building technology and their influence on construction practices and architectural design. Discussions will examine the integration of IoT, automation, and technology to boost energy efficiency, optimize space usage, and enhance occupant comfort and safety. The focus will be on how to create resilient and sustainable urban infrastructures equipped to meet future challenges.

This session will feature the participation of our global partners Veloia Spain

What are some innovative solutions and strategies for a more sustainable urban development? From advancements in building energy efficiency, enhancing indoor environmental quality to sustainable construction practices and pioneering leadership in infrastructure projects, the speakers of this session will share the latest solutions that integrate technology, data analysis and decarbonization for successfully shaping the cities of the future.

How have successful retrofit projects implemented smart building and sustainable solutions to transform existing infrastructure? This session delves into strategies and technologies for retrofitting existing buildings and infrastructure, focusing on enhancing energy efficiency, sustainability, and digital integration. From energy-efficient upgrades and renewable energy integration to deploying IoT devices and smart building technologies, the session aims to showcase the benefits of retrofitting through successful projects and innovative solutions.

This session will feature the participation of our global partners Aramco