“Comprehensive Plan for Makkah, Madinah and Mashaer,” Urban Development Strategy for Ancient Holy Sites in Saudi Arabia, 2009

Abstract

In 2009, I2UD submitted a development strategy, “Comprehensive Plan for Makkah, Madinah and Mashaer,” to promote the preservation and integrated urban development in Saudi Arabia for the Holy Cities of Mecca (Makkah al-Mukarramah) and Medina (Al Madinah Al Munawwarah), and the holy sites area of Mashaer in Mecca. The project included a series of 6 workshops, led by Dr. François Vigier, supported by Moriyama & Teshima Architects & Planning, the Development Commission of Makkah Al Mukarramah, Al Munawwarah and Al Mashaaer Al Mugaddassah (OCOMMM), the Commission of The Development of Makka Almukarama, Almadina Almunawara and The Holy Sites, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

The development plan involved seven main steps: 1) To buy land and compensate for lost development rights; 2) To build world class developments; 3) To facilitate informal area improvements; 4) To improve mobility around Makkah; 5) To beautify and improve the quality of space within the city and create peaceful places; 6) To integrate Al Mashaer as a critical part of the city; and 7) To support strategic infrastructure management.

Documents various component reports of the plan, documents from six workshops, including outlines and reports, and notes and reviews authored by Dr. François Vigier.

See related I2UD projects below

Project Year:	2009-2010
Project Type:	Development Strategy
Geographic Regions:	^{Makkah, Madinah, and the Mashaer district (Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat), Saudi Arabia}
Reports:	Project Documents (July 2009) Makkah Holy Sites (Scope of Work) Population and Employment Plan (August 2009) Population and Employment Plan (September 2009) Development and Growth Strategy (September 2009) Structure Plan (September 2009) Workshops: Workshop 1: Annex A, Terms of Reference Workshop 2: Terms of Reference (June 2009) Workshop 2: (Comments, François Vigier, June 2009) Workshop 3: International Experts Report (August 2009) Workshop 4: Comprehensive Plan Update (October 2009) Workshop 5: Madinah (Comment Matrix) Workshop 5: Makkah (Comment Matrix) Workshop 5: (Comments, François Vigier, March 2010) Workshop 6: (Draft, June 2010) Workshop 6: (Report, François Vigier, July 2010) Reports & Plans: Economic Investment and Development Report (January 2010) Housing Plan (Draft, January 2010) Housing Plan (January 2010) Review of MMM Deliverables (François Vigier, April 2010) Execution Plan (Draft, May 2010) Seven Big Moves (Presentation, June 2010)
Authors:	^{François Vigier; Institute for International Urban Development (I2UD)}
Sponsors:	^{Moriyama and Teshima Architects and Planners; Development Commission of Makkah Al Mukarramah, Al Munawwarah and Al Mashaaer Al Mugaddassah (OCOMMM); United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)}
Categories:	Historic Districts

ID:	2009_04_001

Related I2UD Projects

Related by – MENA International Programs

“World Migration Report,” Background Papers on Displacement, Migration and Resettlement in MENA (Middle East and North Africa), International Organization for Migration, 2014

“The Development and Morphology of Informal Housing,” Research Paper, Published with Aga Khan Award for Architecture Seminar Proceedings, Dr. Mona Serageldin, 1988.

Design Studio 1984: “The Revitalization of a Traditional Urban Quarter” for the Medieval Darb al Ahmar District, Cairo, Egypt, Seminar Curriculum

“Best Practices and Local Leadership Programme,” Review of International Urban Development Projects, for the United Nations Centre for Human Settlements (UN-Habitat), 1995

Habitat III Regional Report for the Arab Region: Papers on “Inclusive cities,” “Migration and Refugees in Urban Areas,” and “Land Structure, Process, and Outcome,” for UN-Habitat (ROAS) and United Nations (ESCWA), 2015-2016

World Bank MNA Urban Action Plan – Policy and Strategy Papers: “The Evolving Regional Urban Agenda: Key Challenges and Opportunities,” & “From Spring to Renaissance: Repositioning the Arab Cities,” 2013

“Comprehensive Plan for Makkah, Madinah and Mashaer,” Urban Development Strategy for Ancient Holy Sites in Saudi Arabia, 2009

State of Arab Cities 2012 UN-Habitat Report & Conference – “Challenges of Urban Transition: Municipal Management and Urban Development Conference For Sustainability in Arab States,” Kuwait, May 2012

“Basic Services for an Urbanizing World,” Third Global Report on Local Democracy and Decentralization (GOLD III, UCLG). Chapter on “Middle East and West Asia” by Mona Serageldin, I2UD, 2013

UN-HABITAT Spatial Regional Plan and Assessment for the Kurdistan-Iraq Region Housing Program, 2014

Keynote for City Debates 2015, American University of Beirut: “The Dynamics of Neighborhood Transformation: Long Term Trends and Immediate Responses to Turmoil and Civil Unrest,” Dr. Mona Serageldin

“Inclusive Cities and Access to Land, Housing, and Services in Developing Countries,” Urban Development Series: Knowledge Papers, February 2016, No. 22. World Bank’s Social, Urban, Rural & Resilience Global Practice, 2016

Related by – Historic District Preservation

Design Studio 1981: “Housing Design in Islamic Cultures” in Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Iraq, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Indonesia, Seminar Curriculum

“Economy of Historic Preservation” in Erbil, Kurdistan, Report for Strengthening Urban & Regional Planning (SURP), UN-HABITAT, 2014

“Comprehensive Plan for Makkah, Madinah and Mashaer,” Urban Development Strategy for Ancient Holy Sites in Saudi Arabia, 2009

“Sustainable Development Based on Valorizing the Historic Urban Fabric,” Paper by Dr. Mona Serageldin, 9th World Congress of the Organization of World Heritage Cities in Kazan, Tatarstan, Russia, 2007

“Integrated Area Management Action Plan,” Urban Management Plan for the Ancient Walled City Icheri Sheher, Baku, Azerbaijan, 2006

“Revitalization of Kars Historic Center” & “Strategies for Sustainable Development,” Technical Assistance and Capacity-Building for Kars, Turkey, 2004-2008

“Cooperation and Capacity Building for Promoting Cultural, Natural and Built Heritage in Transylvania,” Technical Assistance Report for Brașov, Sibiu, Sighișoara and Târgu Mureș, Romania, 2004

“Continuity and Change” by Dr. Mona Serageldin, Topic Paper for 48th World Congress, International Federation for Housing and Planning (IFHP), 2004

“Historic Center of Mexico City” Diagnostic Summary, Technical Assistance for Mexico City, Mexico, 2003

“Master Plan for the Revitalization of the Older Urban Fabric,” Preservation in the Old City of Al Qusair, Egypt, 2000

“St. Petersburg Center City Rehabilitation Project,” Urban Planning Network for St. Petersburg, Russia, 2000

“Preserving the Historic Urban Fabric in a Context of Fast Paced Change,” Research Essay by Dr. Mona Serageldin, 1998

“Lublin Local Initiatives Program” & “Lublin Old Town Rehabilitation Project,” Technical Assistance for Urban Upgrading in Lublin, Poland, 1994-2000

“Samarkand, Uzbekistan: Revitalization and Rehabilitation of the Historic District,” Technical Assistance for the City of Samarkand, Uzbekistan, 1994

“Upgrading and Conservation of the Walled City of Lahore,” Regional Report on the Preservation of Historic Lahore, Pakistan, 1988

Related by – Migration

“World Migration Report,” Background Papers on Displacement, Migration and Resettlement in MENA (Middle East and North Africa), International Organization for Migration, 2014

“Migration, Remittances and Housing in Sub-Saharan Africa,” Study on Senegal, Kenya, and South Africa, with the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), 2007-2008

“Migration, Remittances and the Empowerment of Women in Central America and the Andean Region,” for PROMESHA, Lund University, 2007-2008

“Habitat III Regional Report for the Arab Region,” for UN-Habitat (ROAS) and United Nations (ESCWA), 2015-2016

“National Urban Strategy for Governorates in Iraq,” Development Strategy for Phase II of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Iraq Ministry of Planning Local Area Development Programme (LADP II), 2014-2018

“National Urban Policies in Arab States,” Regional Assessment and Case Studies on NUPs in Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Saudi Arabia and Sudan, 2014

UN-HABITAT Spatial Regional Plan and Assessment for the Kurdistan-Iraq Region Housing Program, 2014

“Inclusive Cities and Access to Land, Housing, and Services in Developing Countries,” Urban Development Series: Knowledge Papers, February 2016, No. 22. World Bank’s Social, Urban, Rural & Resilience Global Practice, 2016

“Basic Services for an Urbanizing World,” Third Global Report on Local Democracy and Decentralization (GOLD III, UCLG). Chapter on “Middle East and West Asia” by Mona Serageldin, I2UD, 2013

World Bank MNA Urban Action Plan – Policy and Strategy Papers: “The Evolving Regional Urban Agenda: Key Challenges and Opportunities,” & “From Spring to Renaissance: Repositioning the Arab Cities,” 2013

“GCC Regional Spatial Strategy – Elements and Considerations,” Urban Development Plan, UN-Habitat Gulf States Regional Office Workshops, 2013

State of Arab Cities 2012 UN-Habitat Report & Conference – “Challenges of Urban Transition: Municipal Management and Urban Development Conference For Sustainability in Arab States,” Kuwait, May 2012

“Comprehensive Plan for Makkah, Madinah and Mashaer,” Urban Development Strategy for Ancient Holy Sites in Saudi Arabia, 2009

Executive Training Course 2006: “Strategic Planning for Sustainable Infrastructure Development,” Workshop Curriculum with Case Studies, Pretoria, South Africa, 2006

“Development Corridors and Urban Development Strategies” and “Slum Improvement Strategies and Social Inclusion,” Presentations by Dr. Mona Serageldin, 11th United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, São Paulo, Brazil, 2004

“Migratory Flows, Poverty and Social Inclusion in Latin America,” Research Report by Dr. Mona Serageldin with Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA), 2004

“Community-Based Urbanization and Favelas Rehabilitation Processes,” Case Study in Academy Editions, “The Architecture of Empowerment: People, Shelter and Livable Cities,” for Fortaleza, Brazil, 1997

“Review of Ongoing USAID Shelter Sector Activities in Morocco,” Report by Dr. Mona Serageldin with ICMA, TSS Inc. for USAID/Morocco Office of Housing and Urban Programs, 1992-1998

Design Studio 1989: “Rabat’s Urban Fringe,” Urbanization Analysis of Rabat, Morocco – Seminar Curriculum

Design Studio 1988: “Urban Infrastructure Planning and Programing in Developing Countries,” Chapters 1-7, Seminar Curriculum

Related by – Regional Assessments

“Comprehensive Plan for Makkah, Madinah and Mashaer,” Urban Development Strategy for Ancient Holy Sites in Saudi Arabia, 2009

“The Unplanned Areas Upgrading and Employment Enhancing Programme in Egypt,” Needs Assessment and Activity Design Study for Informal Settlements in Cairo, Giza Governorates, Egypt, 2011-2016

“GCC Regional Spatial Strategy – Elements and Considerations,” Urban Development Plan, UN-Habitat Gulf States Regional Office Workshops, 2013

“National Urban Policies in Arab States,” Regional Assessment and Case Studies on NUPs in Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Saudi Arabia and Sudan, 2014

UN-HABITAT Spatial Regional Plan and Assessment for the Kurdistan-Iraq Region Housing Program, 2014

Tags

August 2000April 2025

“Decentralization and Urban Infrastructure Management Capacity,” Research Paper for UN-Habitat’s Third Global Report on Human Settlements, 2000

A CUDS research paper from 2000 provided an overview of decentralization and infrastructure policy in the USA since the 1990. The study stressed the expanding scope for private sector involvement and the growing role of non-governmental organizations and civil society in the delivery of infrastructure services for urban slums – properly termed informal settlements. The paper served as a background paper for UN-Habitat’s Third Global Report on Human Settlements.

[Excerpt: Background Paper, August 2000]

1.0 Overview: This background paper is based on an extensive review of infrastructure initiatives implemented since the early 1990s in different economic, social and cultural settings. Recent trends are assessed and creative approaches presented. In each case, the challenges faced and the context within which infrastructure problems have to be addressed determined the range of options and the choice of strategies. The remarkable results achieved by Best Practices are highlighted with a special focus on the ingredients underlying their success.”

[Excerpt: Table of Contents, Background Paper, August 2000, p. 2 of 31]

Project Year:	2000
Project Type:	Research Paper
Geographic Regions:	Global / None Specified
Reports:	Decentralization and Urban Infrastructure Management Capacity: (Background Paper, August 2000)
Authors:	^{Suzanne Kim; Mona Serageldin; Sameh Wahba}
Sponsors:	UN-Habitat
Categories:	Informal Settlements and Urban Upgrading

ID:	2000_08_003

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January 1997April 2025

Design Studio 1997: “Strategic Planning and Local Development,” Seminar Curriculum

Abstract

The GSD (Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design) Design Studio from Spring 1997, “Strategic Planning and Local Development” was led by Professor Mona Serageldin and Mr. John Driscoll. The studio focused on strategies for urban and regional development for less developed nations, within the context of a globalized economy with cities being the engines of growth.

Documents include a workshop overview with objectives and schedule, a reserved materials list, and a bibliography.

Excerpt

[Excerpt: Syllabus Introduction, ‘Strategic Planning and Local Development,’ Spring 1997]

“The seminar will examine strategies for urban and regional development within the context of a globalized economy where cities are the engines of growth. Fierce competition, unavoidable interdependence, fast paced technological change, widening income disparities and environmental degradation are creating new challenges that urban development strategies must address.”

“Concepts and methods of strategic planning as a framework for participation, decision making and resource allocation will be examined focusing on the complementary roles of public and private actors in planning, financing and managing urban development activities in different economic, institutional and cultural settings. Case studies will illustrate proactive strategies to promote urban development, regenerate functionally obsolete areas and revitalized marginalized neighborhoods.

The seminar will examine the expanding scope of public/private partnerships and discuss the changing role of public agencies, private investors, NGOs and community based organizations in the rehabilitation of the built environment and the provision of housing and urban services. Case studies will illustrate sustainable initiatives focusing on the structure of the interface between city, community and the local business sector. The case studies will also highlight critical roles for urban planners and designers in leading and nurturing initiatives relying on empowerment.”

See related I2UD projects below

Project Year:	1997
Project Type:	Urban Design Studio
Geographic Regions:	Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA (Seminar Location) / Cairo Metropolitan Area, Egypt
Reports:	1997 Design Studio: Strategic Planning and Local Development (Syllabus) 1997 Design Studio: Strategic Planning and Local Development (Greater Cairo Region, Case Material) 1997 Design Studio: Strategic Planning and Local Development (Reserved List) 1997 Design Studio: Strategic Planning and Local Development (Bibliography)
Authors:	^{Mona Serageldin; John Driscoll;}
Sponsors:	^{The Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture at Harvard University;}
Categories:	Design Studios; Education;

ID:	1997_01_001

Related I2UD Projects

Related by – Design Studio Seminars, 1981-2003

Related I2UD Photography Galleries

Galleries 6-7 – Egypt: Cairo and Helwan, 1986, 1990

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July 1994April 2025

ITP 1994: “Revitalization in Older Urban Spaces,” Upham’s Corner, Dorchester, Boston, South Boston, and New Haven (US); Montpellier (France); and Cork (Ireland) with Case Studies, International Education Programs, 1994

Abstract

Curriculum components from the 1994 ITP, “Revitalization of Older Urban Spaces,” including case studies for developments in Science Park, in New Haven, Connecticut, Dorchester Bay Enterprise Park, Cork’s Historic Center, Montpellier’s Eurocite Technopolis, the Boston Megaplex, South Boston’s Electric Vehicle Manufacturing Facility and the Upham’s Corner Commercial Revitalization Projects.

See related I2UD projects below

Project Year:	1994
Project Type:	ITP; Education
Geographic Regions:	^{Boston, Massachusetts, US (South Boston and Upham’s Corner, Dorchester) / New Haven, Connecticut, US / Cork, Ireland / Montpellier, France}
Reports:	ITP 1994: Science Park (New Haven, CT, USA Case Study) ITP 1994: Overview for Science Park (New Haven, CT, USA, Case Study) ITP 1994: Cork Regeneration of the Historic Center (Ireland, Case Study) ITP 1994: Dorchester Bay Enterprise Park (Boston, MA, USA, Case Study) ITP 1994: Dorchester Bay Economic Development Corporation (Boston, MA, USA Case Study) ITP 1994: Montpellier Eurocite and National Economic and Urban Development Policy (France, Case Study) ITP 1994: Montpellier Eurocite The Technopolis (France, Case Study) ITP 1994: Montpellier Technopolis (France, Charts)
Authors:	^{Barry Shaw; David Knowles; Bob Haas;}
Sponsors:	^{Unit for Housing and Urbanization of the Harvard University Graduate School of Design}
Categories:	International Training Program; Education;

ID:	1994_07_001

Related I2UD Projects

A History of ITP and IEP Seminars

The International Training Programs (ITP) began in 1982, as 2-4 week long summer seminars held by the Unit for Housing and Urbanization (Harvard University) in Cambridge, MA. ITP curriculums were designed to strengthen the decision-making skills of senior professionals in public and private agencies responsible for urban development.

The I2UD Digital Library holds curriculum materials for ITPs from 1988, 1991, 1994, 1995, 1997 and 1998:

The tradition of ITPs continued after 2000, when CUDS (a re-organization of the Unit) continued training seminars as “International Education Programs” (IEP) from 2000-2004:

Programs included inter-linked modules, lectures, case studies, interactive computer simulation models, site visits to urban projects, discussion groups and networking with professional counterparts from international metropolitan regions. Sessions had a modular format and structured team teaching, taught by a team of senior faculty and guest lecturers. Programs ended with a synthesis presented through a project evaluation exercise. Participants used case projects to examine strategies from the viewpoint of both public and private partners — to assess the feasibility and potential impacts of policies and projects on the community and the city. Presentations by guest speakers representing U.S. and international agencies, NGOs, and community groups were also integrated within the pedagogic framework of each module.

Related by – City or Community Case Studies

“Planning for Climate Adaptation Program” for Four Dominican Republic Municipalities: Santo Domingo National District, Santiago de los Caballeros, San Pedro de Macoris, and Las Terrenas, 2015

“National Urban Policies in Arab States,” Regional Assessment and Case Studies on NUPs in Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Saudi Arabia and Sudan, 2014

“Arusha Urbanization Strategy and Urban Development Plan,” Development Strategy for Arusha Municipality, Tanzania, 2009-2012

ICLRD: Urban Reconciliation Case Studies for Public Housing Estates in Ireland and Northern Ireland, with Study Profile on the Basel Metropolitan Area, 2010-2012

Executive Training Course 2006: “Strategic Planning for Sustainable Infrastructure Development,” Workshop Curriculum with Case Studies, Pretoria, South Africa, 2006

IEP 2003: “Infrastructure and Partnerships for Local Economic Development” in Pretoria and Bloemfontein, South Africa, International Education Programs, 2003

IEP 2002: “Strategic Planning for Local Development & Urban Revitalization,” Program Overview, International Education Programs, 2002

Workshops on “Strategic Planning and Management of Municipal Infrastructure Programs,” from Review of Grant-Funded MIPs in South Africa, May-June 1999

“Housing Microfinance Initiatives,” Case Study for USAID Microenterprise Best Practices Initiative, 1999-2000

ITP 1998: “The Role of Public/Private Partnerships in Urban Improvements,” with Case Studies on Kreuzberg, Berlin (Germany), GIS Mapping on Cape Cod (US) and the Maarouf Quarter of Cairo (Egypt), 1998

“City of Szczecin Capital Improvement Program,” Case Studies for Technical Assistance Program, Szczecin, Poland, 1996

ITP 1994: “Revitalization in Older Urban Spaces,” Upham’s Corner, Dorchester, Boston, South Boston, and New Haven (US); Montpellier (France); and Cork (Ireland) with Case Studies, International Education Programs, 1994

“Introduction to Local Finances,” Teaching Monographs and Case Studies on Finance Management, by Visiting Lecturer David C. Jones, 1994-1999

Related by – Work in Boston, Massachusetts

ITP 1994: “Revitalization in Older Urban Spaces,” Upham’s Corner, Dorchester, Boston, South Boston, and New Haven (US); Montpellier (France); and Cork (Ireland) with Case Studies, International Education Programs, 1994

Reuse Plans for Boston’s Navy Yards and Military Bases: “Balanced Growth Reuse Strategies for Military Base Conversions,” Boston, USA, 1993-1996

City of Boston’s “Neighborhood Partnership Initiative” & “Main Street Program,” Urban Revitalization for Roslindale and West Roxbury, Boston, United States, 1997

ITP 1997: “South Boston Metropolitan Area Community Housing,” Case Studies from Boston, Massachusetts, International Training Programs, 1997

IEP August 2000: “Boston, Massachusetts: Strategic Plans and Community Participation,” International Education Programs, 2000

Seminar on “Partnerships and Urban Development in Older Neighborhoods in Paris and Boston,” with Centre de Recherches sur l’Habitat (CRH), April 2004

ITP 1982-2000: Survey of Modules for International Training Program Seminars

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January 1992April 2025

“Strategy for Technical Assistance and Training: Housing and Land Management in Poland,” Technical Assistance Report by Dr. Mona Serageldin, for Gdańsk, Gdynia, Kraków, Lublin, Poznań and Szczecin, Poland, 1992

Abstract

The paper “Strategy for Technical Assistance and Training: Housing and Land Management, Poland” was prepared in 1993 by Dr. Mona Serageldin, in her capacity as consultant to the International City Management Association (ICMA).

Serageldin’s report was based on interviews and meetings with urban infrastructure officials in 6 Polish cities from 1992 (Gdańsk, Gdynia, Kraków, Lublin, Poznań and Szczecin). The report covers issues relating to housing and land management, strategic planning, infrastructure finance, real estate development, privatization, and the promotion of private sector participation in urban development in Poland. The analysis concluded with a framework for structuring effective local relations to address major municipal finance concerns.

Excerpt

[Excerpt: Preface, page 6; List of Photographs and Illustrations]

See related I2UD projects below

Project Year:	1992
Project Type:	Technical Assistance Report
Geographic Regions:	^{Gdańsk, Poland / Gdynia, Poland / Kraków, Poland / Lublin, Poland / Poznań, Poland / Szczecin, Poland}
Reports:	Strategy for Technical Assistance and Training: Housing and Land Management, Poland (Mona Serageldin, January 1993)
Authors:	^{Mona Serageldin}
Sponsors:	^{USAID Regional Housing and Urban Development Office}
Categories:	Urban Planning

ID:	1992_00_001

Related I2UD Projects

Related by – Work in Lublin, Poland

“Strategy for Technical Assistance and Training: Housing and Land Management in Poland,” Report by Dr. Mona Serageldin, 1992

Design Studio 1995: “Urban Regeneration and Housing in a Transitional Economy,” Lublin, Poland, Spring 1994

Habitat II Conference: “Leadership and Best Practices,” Dr. Mona Serageldin, Istanbul, Turkey, June 1996

International Education Program (IEP) 2000, Lublin Local Initiative Program (Case Study)

International Education Program (IEP) 2000, Szczecin Local Partnership Program (Case Study)

“Lublin Local Initiatives Program” & “Lublin Old Town Rehabilitation Project,” Urban Upgrading in Lublin, Poland, 1994-2000

Related by – City or Community Case Studies

Tags

January 1992April 2025

“Review of Ongoing USAID Shelter Sector Activities in Morocco,” Report by Dr. Mona Serageldin with ICMA, TSS Inc. for USAID/Morocco Office of Housing and Urban Programs, 1992-1998

Abstract

In 1992, Dr. Mona Serageldin and Samir Kanoun (TSS Inc.) contributed to an USAID/Morocco urban planning report, “Review of Ongoing USAID Shelter Sector Activities in Morocco” to address the challenges of rapid urbanization in Morocco. These materials present a rich regional profile of public housing and land use in Morocco circa 1991-1992.

The Unit’s contributions from June 1992 presented an economic analysis with financial metrics on urban shelter programs by measuring the impact of two Moroccan agencies: the ANHI Low Income Housing Program, and the Tetouan Urban Development Program. Authors stressed the increased demand for basic services in Morocco’s cities, like water supply and shelter, in connection to major unemployment and underemployment for urban poor. Workshop elements outlined problems and objectives for future urban infrastructure programs, noting where public officials must make decisions to compromise the needs of urban communities with government economic priorities.

Primarily, the report featured strategic planning matrixes and urban financial analyses — which makes it a strong-study model. It provided a financial cost analysis, municipal profiles, and discussion on government policy — with graphics of planning metrics, service inequities and delivery of urban services by region in Morocco’s urban areas.

Documents include the Final Report (June 1992), with a Draft Summary by Dr. Mona Serageldin. Also included are a Phase I Report (January 1998, completed with TSS), fulfilling the Unit’s contract to “organize a strategic planning workshop with the aim of defining a strategic approach and a set of operational strategies to ensure the effectiveness and financial viability of ANHI’s programs.” Within the Phase I Report are Strategic Planning Annexes, including a Synthesis in French, “Matrice stratégique de I’ANHI.” Finally, see accompanying Documentation, References and Appendices.

Excerpt

[Excerpt]: 1.1 Background – “Review of Ongoing USAID Shelter Sector Activities in Morocco” June 1992

“The ongoing USAID shelter sector activities in Morocco were conceptualized in 1985 within a context of accelerating urbanization and massive rural urban migration. The urban programs initiated by USAID focused on priority areas:

— Rationalizing the land delivery process and regularizing informal land development.
— Institutionalizing sound administrative and fiscal practices in infrastructure management and finance and the delivery of urban services.
— Widening the scope of private participation in the shelter sector by increasing the production of affordable building plots and expanding the role of private developers of low cost housing.
— Reinforcing decentralization by strengthening local managerial capabilities and enhancing local revenues.”

[Excerpt]: 1.0 Background – Phase I Report: “Strategic Planning Workshop” January 1998

“ANHI is a state enterprise in charge of providing access to safe and sanitary housing for lower income families in Morocco. Its activities include the purchase of land, its subdivision and servicing to resettle squatters and to market affordable housing plots, as well as the upgrading of infrastructure in under-serviced and unserviced informal settlements. ANHI operates under the Ministry of Housing umbrella. It is headquartered in Rabat, Morocco and has nine regional offices throughout the country. Since its creation in 1984, ANHI has produced an average of 10,000 plots per year. ANHI’s land purchases and other investment cost are financed with beneficiary advances, foreign and local borrowing, and auto financing. It has benefited from US AID support through HG loans and grants, including the currently active HG loan of $100 million which allowed ANHI to increase production to 15,000 serviced plots in 1994 and 1995.”

Figure 6-4 City of Taza, Al-Qods 1 Project “Residential Plots, Commercial Lots, Community Facilities, Green Areas”

See related I2UD projects below

Project Year:	1992
Project Type:	Report
Geographic Regions:	Morocco
Reports:	“Review of Ongoing USAID Shelter Sector Activities in Morocco, (Final Report, June 1992) “Review of Ongoing USAID Shelter Sector Activities in Morocco,” (Summary of Final Report, June 1992) “Phase I Report: Strategic Planning Workshop,” ANHI Strategic Plan Development Study for TSS Inc. (Mona Serageldin, Samir Kanoun, January 1998) Documentation, References, and Appendices
Authors:	^{Samir Kanoun (TSS); Mona Serageldin;}
Sponsors:	^{USAID Office of Housing and Urban Programs; ICMA}
Categories:	Informal Settlements and Urban Upgrading

ID:	1992_00_004

Related I2UD Projects

Related by – Migration

“World Migration Report,” Background Papers on Displacement, Migration and Resettlement in MENA (Middle East and North Africa), International Organization for Migration, 2014

“Migration, Remittances and Housing in Sub-Saharan Africa,” Study on Senegal, Kenya, and South Africa, with the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), 2007-2008

“Migration, Remittances and the Empowerment of Women in Central America and the Andean Region,” for PROMESHA, Lund University, 2007-2008

“Habitat III Regional Report for the Arab Region,” for UN-Habitat (ROAS) and United Nations (ESCWA), 2015-2016

“National Urban Policies in Arab States,” Regional Assessment and Case Studies on NUPs in Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Saudi Arabia and Sudan, 2014

UN-HABITAT Spatial Regional Plan and Assessment for the Kurdistan-Iraq Region Housing Program, 2014

“GCC Regional Spatial Strategy – Elements and Considerations,” Urban Development Plan, UN-Habitat Gulf States Regional Office Workshops, 2013

“Comprehensive Plan for Makkah, Madinah and Mashaer,” Urban Development Strategy for Ancient Holy Sites in Saudi Arabia, 2009

Executive Training Course 2006: “Strategic Planning for Sustainable Infrastructure Development,” Workshop Curriculum with Case Studies, Pretoria, South Africa, 2006

“Migratory Flows, Poverty and Social Inclusion in Latin America,” Research Report by Dr. Mona Serageldin with Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA), 2004

“Review of Ongoing USAID Shelter Sector Activities in Morocco,” Report by Dr. Mona Serageldin with ICMA, TSS Inc. for USAID/Morocco Office of Housing and Urban Programs, 1992-1998

Design Studio 1989: “Rabat’s Urban Fringe,” Urbanization Analysis of Rabat, Morocco – Seminar Curriculum

Design Studio 1988: “Urban Infrastructure Planning and Programing in Developing Countries,” Chapters 1-7, Seminar Curriculum

Tags

September 1990April 2025

“The Abidjan Experience”- Four Research Reports on Community-Based Urban Development in Adjamé, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, 1990-1995

Abstract

Between 1990 and 1995, the Unit for Housing and Urban Development (later CUDS) prepared four research reports on the commune district of Adjamé in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast). As a collection, these materials present a detailed analysis of urban housing trends in Côte d’Ivoire from the 1990s, covering economic, historical, architectural, financial and socio-geographical elements.

First, in September 1990 the Unit produced a major research endeavor, “Urban Infrastructure on Municipal Revenues and the Integration of Informal Sector Activities: The Abidjan Experience.” The report was produced for the Office of Housing and Urban Programs, U.S. Agency for International Development, in Washington D.C.

Second, in January 1994 Drs. Mona Serageldin and Francois Vigier wrote “Designing for Urban Growth, Abidjan Ivory Coast,” covering the socio-geography of Abidjan/Côte d’Ivoire in 5 detailed sections on National Context, Landscape, The Urban Landscape, Housing Typologies, and a detailed condition analysis of the Commune of Adjamé.

Third, in September 1994 the Unit presented “Community Based Development Lessons from Experience Across Cities” for a forum on “Enabling Sustainable Community Development” at the 2nd World Bank Conference. The presentation built on the Unit’s previous research on Adjamé among other cities, sponsored by the USAID,’s Office of Environment and Urban Programs.

Fourth, in October 1995 Dr. Mona Serageldin and CUDS wrote a Working Paper: “Successful Institutionalization of Community Based Development of Adjamé, Abidjan.” The paper built off all previous research on Abidjan, covering six international case studies from Abidjan, Boston, Cairo, Lima, Lublin and Tunis, selected because of their innovative character. (See footnote 1 on cover page).

Excerpt

[Excerpt: “Community Based Development: Lessons from Experience Across Cities,” for the 2nd World Bank Conference, September 1994, Introduction, by Mona Serageldin for the Unit, 09/1994]/

“The ESD Conference, just completed yesterday, saw a remarkable unnamity on two points of relevance, to a discussion of cross-cutting lessons.

First, that community involvement is paramount for any meaningful action to reduce poverty and improve the urban environment; and Second, that there is no single formula to do it. The diversity of cities and their local context entail that concepts be adapted to the particularities of the local context.

Yet, there is a lot to be learned from the sharing of experiences. In spite of the diversity, there are common threads. The issue of empowerment was eloquently discussed this morning. Other issues have been discussed by the previous speakers. My presentation will highlight principles which structure interfaces between communities and municipalities in order to foster community based development approaches.”

Project Year:	1990-1995
Project Type:	Urban Development Research
Geographic Regions:	^{Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire / Boston, United States / Cairo, Egypt / Lima, Perú / Lublin, Poland / Tunis, Tunisia}
Reports:	“The Impact of Investments in Urban Infrastructure on Municipal Revenues and the Integration of Informal Sector Activities: The Abidjan Experience,” Full Report (September 1990) “Designing for Urban Growth, Abidjan, Ivory Coast,” Mona Serageldin, Francois C.D, Vigier (January 1994) “Community Based Development: Lessons from Experience Across Cities,” Forum on “Enabling Sustainable Community Development,” 2nd World Bank Conference (September 1994) Working Paper on “Successful Institutionalization of Community Based Development in the Commune of Adjamé,” from Community-Based Development: Experiences Across Cities. Working Paper Series, Office of Environment and Urban Programs, Center for Environment, USAID, pp. 18-31, September 1994. PN-ABU-443 (October 1995)
Authors:	^{Samir Abdulac; Mona Serageldin; Howard Trett; François Vigier; Wafaa Abdalla; Jeanine Anderson; Nader El Bizri; Janne Corneil; John Driscoll; Denis Lesage; Sherif Lotfi; David Neilson; Tarek Sweilim}
Sponsors:	^{Unit for Housing and Urbanization at the Harvard Graduate School of Design; World Bank Conference, USAID Office of Environment and Urban Programs}
Categories:	Urban Planning

ID:	1990_09_001

Related I2UD Projects

Related I2UD Photography Galleries

Gallery 2 – Côte d’Ivoire: Adjamé, Abidjan, 1990-1995

Galleries 6-7 – Egypt: Cairo and Helwan, 1986, 1990

Gallery 12 – Poland: Gdansk and Lublin, 1994–1995

Gallery 13 – Tunisia: Tunis, 1978-1990

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July 1989April 2025

“Environmental Health Factors in Housing,” Design Study for the Rapid Urbanization of Low-Income Settlements in Urban-Fringe Districts, 1989

Abstract

“Environmental Health Factors in Housing” was a study from 1989 by the Unit for Housing and Urbanization — addressing the link between rapid urbanization and rapid densification of low-income housing settlements in economically struggling cities — called the “Third World” in 1980s-era economic terminology.

The report addressed the environmental hazards, poverty, disease and slum housing conditions emerging in areas around housing developments built recently but lacking adequate infrastructure for socio-economic longevity and community health. The Unit presented their aim to form a model for affordable, practical design criteria that paid attention to both economic and social factors for urban-fringe districts.

Documents include working reports from April, July and August 1989, a Study Summary, and a Research Strategy and Methodological Guidelines by Rafique H. Keshavjee (Ph.D. Orville Solon, Ph.D.) from December 1989.

Excerpt

[Excerpt: Study Summary, I. Overview, July 1989, p. 2]

“Most urban settlements in lower-income countries, whether they are new settlements built by the government, established informal communities or new squatter areas, are subject to tremendous pressures of population growth and economic and physical change. The greater the pressure for development, the more rapid the transformations brought about by this maturation process. This continuous growth and change can rapidly transform their original physical forms beyond recognition and alter the community’s social and economic functions. The process is further intensified when governments introduce improvements such as water, sewerage, basic services and housing. For example, carefully planned housing projects designed according to standards which assume a segregation of commercial and residential activities will find that, overtime, these activities will occur simultaneously in the same area.

The need of low-income families to generate additional income and living space results in the construction of new rooms and apartments which were often not anticipated in the original design of the site or its infrastructure. In such cities as Karachi, Dhakka and Cairo, where housing shortages are high, additions to structures can reach over six stories in less than five years, raising densities from under 400 to over 1,000 persons per hectare. The most dynamic aspect of transformation within a community affects housing, small scale commercial establishments and the disappearance or overuse of communal open
spaces.”

…..

[Excerpt: Study Summary, III. STUDY DESIGN, July 1989, p. 7]

“The purpose of the Study is to develop practical, affordable design criteria which are responsive to the social and economic dynamics of low-income settlements. It will focus on aspects of housing and community design which have received little attention in the past. Most notably, the long-term impact of rapid growth in low-income urban settlements and the effect of the resulting transformation of housing and environmental conditions on the health of the residents. The definition of this linkage and the development of appropriate environmental design criteria, will allow decision makers to choose physical improvements that will maintain their positive impacts as a community matures.“

Project Year:	1989
Project Type:	Environmental Climate Research Paper
Geographic Regions:	Global / None Specified
Reports:	Environmental Health Factors in Housing: (April 1989) Environmental Health Factors in Housing: (August 1989) Environmental Health Factors in Housing: (July 1989) Environmental Health Factors in Housing: (Summary, July 1989) Environmental Health Factors in Housing: Research Strategy and Methodological Guidelines (December 1989)
Authors:	^{Rafique H. Keshavjee, Ph.D.; Mona Serageldin; François Vigier;}
Sponsors:	^{World Health Organization; Ford Foundation;}
Categories:	Climate Change and Resilience Building

ID:	1989_07_001