Global Outlook on Water and Sanitation Service Providers: Water for Sustainable Cities is the first global assessment to place utilities at the centre of sustainable urban development. Produced by GWOPA/UN-Habitat with IRC, it presents new data, identifies key gaps and outlines seven pathways to stronger, more resilient and inclusive water and sanitation services.

​​Originally established in 2011 following the 2010 Shanghai World Expo, the Shanghai Manual serves as a practical guide for mayors and urban practitioners advancing sustainable urban development. The Manual has been shaped by the principles of both the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the New Urban Agenda, positioning it as a key resource in the global ambition of achieving sustainable cities. 

​As digitalisation rapidly reshapes urban life across health, education,…

This playbook provides governments with a practical, people-centred approach to urban digital transformation. It offers a step-by-step guidance, tools, access to relevant resources and case studies to help cities design inclusive, ethical, and resilient smart city strategies grounded in community needs and human rights.

This Toolkit provides planners and city leaders with practical guidance on applying Geospatial Artificial Intelligence (GeoAI) to urban planning and decision-making. It explains key concepts, applications, risks and benefits, and provides step-by-step guidance, case studies and tools to support responsible, data-driven and inclusive planning for sustainable and resilient urban development.

UN-Habitat’s Strategic Plan 2026–2029 places housing, land and basic services at the centre of sustainable urban development. Responding to the global housing crisis affecting billions, the plan drives action on poverty, climate and crises, advancing the SDGs through inclusive policies, partnerships and impact.