What are the trends shaping the future of urban planning?
According to The World Bank, 70% of the world’s population will be living in urban spaces by 2050, and further research and estimates have equated this figure to close to 7 billion people. It’s clear more people around the world are living in urban spaces, which could be for several reasons, including more job opportunities, easier access to health care systems and exposure to different cultures. As a result, there will be a greater need for improved infrastructure, green spaces and transportation.
AtkinsRéalis offers engineering, procurement and construction services to a range of companies in various industries. With the increasing population, urban planning will play a huge role in sustainable development. Urban planning increases people's well-being and sense of belonging and reduces carbon emissions. Below, we explore the key urban planning trends that are set to have a huge impact on the way cities are managed and developed in the future.
Mobility
Mobility and urban planning have always been
interconnected. As cities have grown, urban planners have had to respond to the
demands in travel, as well as create suitable infrastructure for new modes of
transport, such as autonomous vehicles and electric vehicles. When urban
transport systems are poorly designed, this can lead to a range of threats,
such as air pollution, road traffic injuries and further dangers to human
health. That’s why there’s now a lot of investment in mobility choices to
compensate for all the different ways people like to travel in urban areas. For
example, as electric vehicles have been on the rise, there has been an increase
in EV charging infrastructure. According to research, there will be
1.3 million public charging stations by 2025, and then a further 2.9 million by
2030. Above all, mobility and planning are continuously evolving to support the needs of commuters.
Green planning
One of the most prominent trends in urban planning is green infrastructure – otherwise known as green planning – which is the strategic design of multi-functional spaces that deliver environmental
benefits and a great quality of life. Today’s urban spaces are now facing pressure from climate change, growing populations and a lack of natural space that creates a healthy and sustainable environment. Urban planners are increasingly focused on green building applications and
sustainable development. Therefore, eco-friendly districts and neighbourhoods are starting to gain momentum throughout the world. They support
healthier lifestyles and water conversion and ensure more aesthetic environments. As many cities look to decarbonise, the importance of green spaces will no doubt have a huge impact on the future of urban development and planning.
Data-driven urban spaces
With the rise of smart cities, urban planning will likely be much more data-focused in the future. Through data and analysis, urban planners can gather accurate information about a city’s resources and the type of infrastructures that will be required to improve living arrangements. Predictive analytics, for example, allow urban planners to create virtual models of infrastructure and transport networks to gain new insights, which help them to design the best systems to reduce traffic and pollution. Data-driven technologies allow urban planners to gain a holistic understanding
of a city. Therefore, data-driven urban spaces and smart cities will most certainly continue to evolve.
Blue Zones
Blue zones are another emerging trend in urban planning that supports healthier, more resilient communities. Blue zone areas were born from a desire to help people live longer. These longevity
hotspots and blue zone principles are being implemented by many urban planners in their design practices to improve human health. The importance of blue zones lies in their ability to cultivate a more positive atmosphere. For example, creating more walkable spaces and more opportunities for people to cycle, are key to successful blue zones. It’s a very human-centric approach to urban planning that balances the relationship between sociability and the natural environment.
Let AtkinsRéalis support your career growth in the built environment
AtkinsRéalis has worked on a range of challenging projects on a global scale. Our goal is to engineer a better future for our planet and its people. We’re here to support you at any stage of your
career, whether that’s in transportation, cities and development or industrial and manufacturing AtkinsRéalis is always eager to find the best talent and we’re able to provide
professionals with opportunities in multiple markets.
We have significant experience in helping others with their urban planner careers and building careers. Now’s the time to view our urban planner vacancies and join the talent community, or sign up for job alerts. Also, contact our team for further information.
Interested? Find out more about life at AtkinsRéalis
Sign up to receive the latest content tailored to your interests
Our articles
.png)
Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
05/06/2025
Summary
I'm Angela, writing from my desk at AtkinsRéalis in Bristol, UK, where I'm proud to be a part of the Aerospace, Defence, Security & Technology team – ADS&T for short. My career began in 1997 when

Preview
IndiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
04/29/2025
Summary
At AtkinsRéalis, we value people who take charge of their development and consistently deliver results. Moneesh joined the GTC India team to support recruitment operations—but quickly st

by
Akash Kumar

Preview
AsiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
04/28/2025
Summary
Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) in the workplace are not just policies; they are a commitment to protecting lives, safeguarding environments, and ensuring sustainable futures. Jason Lee, H

Preview
AsiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
04/22/2025
Summary
Living sustainably isn’t about drastic lifestyle overhauls. It’s about making small yet meaningful changes to reduce your impact on the planet while encouraging others to do the same. Whether y

Preview
AsiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
04/13/2025
Summary
Sustainability has become a core principle in modern engineering, marking a shift toward creating solutions that promote economic growth while preserving the environment. James Cai, Head of Eng
.jpeg)
Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
04/10/2025
Summary
Engineering is a massive contributor to the global economy, which means there’s always a huge demand for different jobs in the sector. The engineering market is expected to grow to USD 3.5 trillion
.jpg)
Preview
USAContent type
BlogsPublish date
04/07/2025
Summary
The demand for skilled aviation professionals in the U.S. continues to rise, driven by increasing passenger numbers, the modernization of airports, and the push for more sustainable and technolog

Preview
Middle EastContent type
BlogsPublish date
04/01/2025
Summary
Mechanical engineering is at the heart of the UAE’s ambition. The UAE’s construction market size of $100.7 billion is projected to grow by more than 3% by 2029 thanks to infrastructural development, p

Preview
Middle EastContent type
BlogsPublish date
04/01/2025
Summary
The Middle East is full of opportunity for architects. Home to some of the world’s most ambitious architectural projects and sustainable smart cities, countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are inves
+(1).png)
Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
04/01/2025
Summary
"I've always wanted to pursue an engineering degree. As a child, I changed my dream discipline as often as I got a haircut! Eventually, I chose Electronics and Communications Engineering and compl

Preview
IndiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
03/25/2025
Summary
Hello, my name is Nikita. AtkinsRéalis is the first company I joined as a dedicated HR professional, where I spent over three years hiring talented, deserving candidates and supporting smooth or

by
Akash Kumar

Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
03/24/2025
Summary
My name is Kamal. I was born in Lebanon, where I also attended school (below is a beautiful picture of Lebanon). I completed my university days in Lebanon, Texas and London. I'm a Structural Engin
Related jobs
Salary
Location
Abu Dhabi
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Business support
Category
Permanent
Location
Abu Dhabi
Description
AtkinsRéalis is currently looking for an Emirati candidate for a Document Controller role based in Abu Dhabi, UAE.About AtkinsRéalisCreated by the integration of long-standing organizations dating bac
Reference
R-130591
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Abu Dhabi
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Business support
Category
Permanent
Location
Abu Dhabi
Description
AtkinsRéalis is currently looking for an Emirati candidate for a Senior Document Controller role based in Abu Dhabi, UAE.About AtkinsRéalisCreated by the integration of long-standing organizations dat
Reference
R-130578
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Abu Dhabi
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project controls
Category
Permanent
Location
Abu Dhabi
Description
AtkinsRéalis, a world-leading design, engineering, and project management organization. We connect people, data and technology to transform the world's infrastructure and energy systems. We are active
Reference
R-130571
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Dubai
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Engineering (Other)
Category
Permanent
Location
Dubai
Description
AtkinsRéalis is looking for a Senior Resident Engineer - Under Ground Stations, in Dubai, UAE.About AtkinsRéalisCreated by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, AtkinsRéa
Reference
R-129988
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Dubai
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Engineering (Other)
Category
Permanent
Location
Dubai
Description
AtkinsRéalis is looking for a Resident Engineer - Iconic/Interchange Stations, in Dubai, UAE.About AtkinsRéalisCreated by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, AtkinsRéal
Reference
R-129987
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Dubai
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Engineering (Other)
Category
Permanent
Location
Dubai
Description
AtkinsRéalis is looking for a Resident Engineer - UnderGround Interchange Stations, in Dubai, UAE.About AtkinsRéalisCreated by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, Atkin
Reference
R-129981
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Dubai
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Engineering (Other)
Category
Permanent
Location
Dubai
Description
AtkinsRéalis is looking for a Resident Engineer – Over Ground Stations (Site Ops.), in Dubai, UAE.About AtkinsRéalisCreated by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, Atkin
Reference
R-129974
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Abu Dhabi
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Business support
Category
Permanent
Location
Abu Dhabi
Description
AtkinsRéalis is currently looking for an Emirati candidate for a Document Controller role based in Abu Dhabi, UAE.About AtkinsRéalisCreated by the integration of long-standing organizations dating bac
Reference
R-130902
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Riyadh
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project controls
Category
Permanent
Location
Riyadh
Description
AtkinsRéalis, a world-leading design, engineering, and project management organization. We connect people, data and technology to transform the world's infrastructure and energy systems. We are active
Reference
R-130737
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Riyadh
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Consultant
Category
Permanent
Location
Riyadh
Description
Job DescriptionAtkinsRealis are looking for a Smart Cities Manager for a giga mixed-use project based in Riyadh KSA, which encompasses public realm, urban infrastructure elements, high-end residential
Reference
R-130616
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Abu Dhabi
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Business support
Category
Permanent
Location
Abu Dhabi
Description
AtkinsRéalis is currently looking for an Emirati candidate for a Document Controller role based in Abu Dhabi, UAE.About AtkinsRéalisCreated by the integration of long-standing organizations dating bac
Reference
R-130591
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Abu Dhabi
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Business support
Category
Permanent
Location
Abu Dhabi
Description
AtkinsRéalis is currently looking for an Emirati candidate for a Senior Document Controller role based in Abu Dhabi, UAE.About AtkinsRéalisCreated by the integration of long-standing organizations dat
Reference
R-130578
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Abu Dhabi
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project controls
Category
Permanent
Location
Abu Dhabi
Description
AtkinsRéalis, a world-leading design, engineering, and project management organization. We connect people, data and technology to transform the world's infrastructure and energy systems. We are active
Reference
R-130571
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Dubai
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Engineering (Other)
Category
Permanent
Location
Dubai
Description
AtkinsRéalis is looking for a Senior Resident Engineer - Under Ground Stations, in Dubai, UAE.About AtkinsRéalisCreated by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, AtkinsRéa
Reference
R-129988
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Dubai
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Engineering (Other)
Category
Permanent
Location
Dubai
Description
AtkinsRéalis is looking for a Resident Engineer - Iconic/Interchange Stations, in Dubai, UAE.About AtkinsRéalisCreated by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, AtkinsRéal
Reference
R-129987
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Dubai
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Engineering (Other)
Category
Permanent
Location
Dubai
Description
AtkinsRéalis is looking for a Resident Engineer - UnderGround Interchange Stations, in Dubai, UAE.About AtkinsRéalisCreated by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, Atkin
Reference
R-129981
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Everyone belongs
We empower each individual to shine and contribute to our collective impact. We believe in the power of unique perspectives. It’s how we’re engineering a better future every single day.
Find out more