Investments in urban infrastructure aimed at implementing “new visions for cities” will reach US$375 billion by 2030, according to global technology intelligence firm ABI Research.  The research focuses on new greenfield and brownfield urban developments that adopt one or more new design principles, including pedestrianisation, 20-minute neighbourhoods and fresh approaches to  green infrastructure, utilities, transportation, and carbon-neutral buildings.

In January, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman unveiled plans to build a car-free, pedestrianised city – within the larger NEOM development – called ‘THE LINE‘, which aims to have all residents’ needs catered for within a five-minute walk. The proposed city will extend over 170 kilometres and have the capacity to house one million residents, according to the Prince, with construction expected to commence in the first quarter of this year.

“We need to transform the concept of a conventional city into that of a futuristic one,” Prince Mohammed said, adding that the city will serve as a “blueprint for how people and planet can co-exist in harmony”.

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