Challenges and issues of urban development in Moroccan cities: Towards socio-economic equity and spatial integration

Sustainable urban planning is crucial for modern cities, as it aims to balance economic development, environmental preservation and the well-being of citizens. To achieve this ambitious goal, three fundamental pillars must be carefully considered: education, heritage and architectural diversity. Education in sustainable urban planning is essential to raise awareness of environmental challenges and prepare future generations to build smart, resilient cities. The emergence of sustainable development has profoundly transformed the paradigms of urban planning and territorial development, aiming to rethink the design and management of urban spaces by placing socio-spatial equity and territorial intelligence at the forefront. In rapidly urbanizing Arab regions, it is crucial to address spatial justice between central and peripheral areas, which requires an in-depth analysis of segregation dynamics and the identification of strategies to remedy socio-spatial disparities.