Manama:The Urban Planning and Development Authority (UPDA) has entered into a contract with the international consultancy firm Skidmore, Owings and Merrill LLP (SOM) to develop the Bahrain National Strategic Structure Plan 2050. The signing took place at the Social Housing Innovation Conference and Exhibition 2026.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the contract was signed by Ahmed Abdulaziz Al Khayyat, UPDA Chief Executive Officer, and Thomas Behr, representing SOM, with Douglas Voigt also present for the consultancy firm. This collaboration is part of efforts to enhance Bahrain's urban planning and development framework, addressing both current and future needs of the Kingdom.
Al Khayyat stated that the project is crucial in updating the National Strategic Structure Plan 2030. It aims to draw on specialized planning expertise to develop an integrated urban vision that meets diverse development needs, improves spatial planning efficiency, and promotes optimal land use.
He emphasized that the UPDA is committed to advancing Bahrain's planning framework based on sustainable principles, enhancing the urban environment, and supporting development across the Kingdom to meet changing and future demands.
SOM expressed pride in partnering with UPDA and is dedicated to applying its expertise in urban planning to help achieve the project's goals. The event underscored the significance of integrating urban planning with modern development approaches and innovative solutions to support sustainable urban development in Bahrain.