As part of its Technical Assistance Programme with Riyadh Amanah, the United Nations Development Programme, in collaboration with the IE School of Architecture and Design, delivered a five-day executive training in Madrid focused on urban landscape enhancement. The programme, titled Urban Landscape Improvement Experiences, examined how cities can function as adaptive living systems capable of responding to contemporary climate, social and economic challenges.
The training was grounded in the idea that urban landscapes are not merely aesthetic elements but a form of essential infrastructure. Landscape innovation was presented as a key driver of sustainable urban development, with expert-led sessions highlighting the role of nature-based solutions in reducing climate risks, cutting pollution, supporting biodiversity and promoting inclusive urban growth.
Participants explored practical applications through real-world case studies, including Madrid Río and Plaza de España. These projects illustrated how ambitious urban regeneration can restore ecological balance, improve mobility and strengthen human connections with nature, while demonstrating the impact of well-designed public spaces on urban health and social cohesion.
Interactive workshops complemented the site-based learning, encouraging participants to critically assess how global best practices could be adapted to local contexts. Particular attention was given to fast-growing cities such as Riyadh, where the demand for resilient and future-ready urban solutions is increasing.
Through this exchange of knowledge and experience, UNDP continues to support local governments in strengthening institutional capacity for long-term sustainability. By investing in leadership development and practical planning tools, the initiative empowers cities to manage urban growth more effectively while advancing greener and more inclusive development pathways.
