The Heartbeat of Future Cities: A Q&A with Rachel Sturgess

As part of BuiltWorlds’ partnership with Cityscape Global, a premier real estate event based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia that brings together stakeholders from across the global real estate, development, and AEC industries, we recently had a chance to sit down with Rachel Sturgess, group director of Tahaluf (a strategic alliance between Informa PLC, the Saudi Federation for Cyber Security and Programming, and the Events Investment Fund) and a spokesperson for the event, to learn a little bit more about the region, the show and its programming, and how buildings and infrastructure professionals can benefit from attending.

Cityscape Global attracts real estate professionals, developers, and AEC stakeholders from around the world. What is it about the show that brings so many different professional groups together?

Cityscape Global 2024 is attracting over 400 world-class exhibitors along with global city experts to Riyadh by offering an unparalleled platform that explores the future of urban development, real estate, and infrastructure. As the world experiences its largest wave of urbanization, with cities growing rapidly, the challenges are becoming more complex ranging from infrastructure demands and shifting demographics to sustainability concerns.

This edition, taking place from 11-14 November, addresses these challenges head-on by providing a space for innovation, collaboration, and forward-thinking solutions. It goes beyond traditional networking by offering focused B2B connections and investment opportunities. With seven specialized conferences, attendees can delve into key themes shaping the future of urban living, from smart infrastructure and sustainable urban solutions to groundbreaking projects like Saudi Arabia’s preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2034 and the 2029 Asian Winter Games in NEOM.

Why is Saudi Arabia and Riyadh in particular a good spot to host such an event?

Saudi Arabia’s strategic location and its rapidly growing status as a global hub make it an ideal host for Cityscape Global. Riyadh offers a unique gateway for industry leaders to connect with global stakeholders. Cityscape Global 2024 not only benefits from the Kingdom’s pivotal location but also contributes to the long-term development of sustainable, future-proof cities in line with Vision 2030. This year’s theme, “The Future of Living,” captures the Kingdom’s ambitions for creating sustainable, vibrant urban landscapes. By showcasing eco-friendly projects and initiatives, the event highlights the importance of green building practices and energy efficiency. Cityscape Global is an important platform for sustainability goals, by fostering international collaboration on sustainable urban development, showcasing innovative real estate projects that incorporate green building technologies, and promoting smart city solutions.

What are expected to be the hot topics of this year’s show, and why those topics?

The event’s extensive knowledge program, featuring seven conferences and over 500 speakers, will delve into a variety of topics relevant to the future of living. Attendees can expect insights into smart cities, sustainable construction, urban planning, real estate investment, and emerging technologies. Renowned experts from around the world will share their expertise and discuss the latest trends and innovations shaping the industry.

Cityscape Global is set to hear from a host of international industry heavyweights, including Dan Epstein, the former Director of Legacy and Sustainability for the London Olympics; Navid Hanif, who is assistant secretary general of the United Nations; Enrique Peñalosa, the former Mayor of Bogotá and one of the world’s 100 most influential urbanists; James Ehrlich, the Director of Compassionate Sustainability at Stanford University; and Amira Ayoub, the World Green Building Council’s Head of MENA.

Where and how do technology solution providers fit into Cityscape Global?

Technology is a huge part of the event, showcasing advancements in smart city solutions and technology-driven urban planning. The show has multiple features aimed at technology solutions, including the Tech Zone where solution providers are exhibiting, and dedicated Tech Stage focused on Proptech and Construction technology. The Start Up Zone features 60+ start-ups and 3 dedicated start-up competitions focused on the latest innovations. Finally, the Smart Cities Conference will highlight the latest developments in intelligent infrastructure, data-driven planning, and sustainable technologies.

The overarching theme of “The Future of Living” will contribute to the event’s goal of demonstrating how smart city solutions and technology can contribute to creating more efficient, sustainable, and livable urban environments. By addressing areas such as transportation systems, waste management, public safety, and access to services, Cityscape Global 2024 aims to foster a dialogue on the transformative potential of technology in shaping the cities of tomorrow.

How can buildings and infrastructure construction professionals get involved in the show if they want to?

As the largest property event globally, Cityscape Global offers access to C-Level executives from major projects, not only in Saudi but around the world, with over 60 international developers exhibiting at the event.

The Kingdom is one of the largest construction markets in the world, and experiencing a boom in infrastructure projects and investment, providing a vast array of opportunities for both domestic and international firms looking to capitalize on large-scale projects.

The combination of scale, government backing, sustainability focus, and market potential makes Saudi Arabia an attractive destination for construction professionals.

Any professionals who would like to find out more information about the event or register for a free visitor pass can do so via our website – www.cityscapeglobal.com.