As part of its Technical Assistance Programme with Riyadh Amanah, UNDP, in collaboration with the IE School of Architecture and Design, recently delivered a five-day executive training in Madrid focused on urban landscape enhancement. The initiative, Urban Landscape Improvement Experiences, explored how cities can evolve into adaptive living systems that address today’s climate, social, and economic challenges.

Rooted in the belief that urban landscapes are not merely aesthetic features but essential infrastructure, the programme positioned landscape innovation as a lever for sustainable urban development. Expert-led sessions examined how nature-based solutions can help cities mitigate climate risks, reduce pollution, enhance biodiversity, and foster inclusive growth.

Participants engaged with real-world case studies such as Madrid Río and Plaza de España, witnessing how bold urban regeneration can restore ecological balance, improve mobility, and reforge human connections with nature. These flagship projects demonstrated how public space design can play a pivotal role in shaping healthier and more cohesive urban environments.

Beyond the classroom, interactive workshops encouraged critical reflection on how global best practices can be adapted to local realities particularly in rapidly evolving cities like Riyadh, where demand for resilient urban solutions is accelerating.

Through this knowledge exchange, UNDP continues to support local governments in building institutional capacities that enable long-term sustainability. By investing in visionary leadership and practical tools, initiatives like this empower cities to navigate the complexities of urban growth while delivering greener, more inclusive futures.

UNDP’s commitment to advancing resilience-based planning reflects a broader shift toward integrated urban systems where design, nature, and policy converge to serve both people and the planet.