This paper examines the specific urban development challenges and opportunities facing the city of Kabul. It first presents the main findings from the State of Afghan Cities 2014/15 Programme land use and housing analysis.

It shows the dominance of agriculture, vacant plots, and institutional land uses, and high-density irregular and hillside housing, which characterise the urban form of the city. The paper concludes by recommending six strategic directions to harness Kabul as a driver of social and economic development in the coming decade.