The Relationship between Urban Governance and Physical Urban Expansion in Riyadh

Abstract

This dissertation explores the complex issue of urban sprawl in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, emphasising the limited efficiency of institutions for governance and planning to rein in this uncontrolled growth. Urban sprawl, frequently associated with unplanned and unsustainable development, has become a significant problem in Riyadh and is creating social, economic, and environmental issues. This study aims to clarify the intricate interactions between variables that contribute to this phenomenon, emphasising the function of legislative frameworks. This paper explores the underlying reasons behind Riyadh's failure to control urban expansion through a thorough analysis of past urban planning techniques, governance frameworks, and legal frameworks. The dissertation intends to shed light on the causes of urban sprawl in Riyadh by using a literature review methodology through archival analysis, scientific paper results, meta-analysis paper reviews, some policy evaluations, and books written by experts on the topic. Due to the paper’s emphasis on the role of governance towards urban sprawl, some essential literature analysis is based on documents that have been concerned with the issue, whether wholly or partially: The National Spatial Strategy 2030 (UN-Development Programme, 2021), the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Report on the Implementation of the New Urban Agenda 2022 (MoMRAH), Riyadh's strategic plan (MEDSTAR, 2021), Saudi Arabia’s National Report for Habitat III (MoMRA, 2016) and The Saudi Cities Report (MoMRA, 2019). According to the report, prioritising greenfield development and decentralised decision-making procedures has historically unintentionally encouraged suburban growth. Governance institutions have discovered it challenging to address the spatial fragmentation brought on by this strategy because they lack thorough master planning and mixed-use zoning plans. The complexity of urban growth in Riyadh is highlighted in this dissertation, but it also emphasises the essential for a paradigm shift in urban governance and planning. This research provides insights into how legislative structures might be re-calibrated to match sustainable and controlled urban growth by looking at the various legislative motivations that have sustained urban sprawl. The results of this study add to the larger conversation about issues facing urban growth and can guide policy initiatives to promote more cohesive, livable, and resilient communities. The research aims to lay the groundwork for future urban planning initiatives focusing on balanced and sustainable growth, thereby reducing the adverse effects of uncontrolled urban expansion in Riyadh and elsewhere.