Optimization Strategies of Sustainable Urban Land Use Planning Using a Hybridized Technique Based on SWOT-AHP, and GIS in Ibb City, Yemen

Abstract

Abstract The high rate of population growth led to migration from rural to urban settlements, causing unregulated growth, urban sprawls, and inefficiencies in city planning of developing countries. yet, in regions like Yemen, rapid urbanization poses significant challenges for urban planners. Addressing these challenges, this study proposes an innovative approach to urban planning in the context of Ibb City, Yemen, a region grappling with rapid urbanization and inefficient land use. The study identifies a significant gap in the integration of strategic planning and technological tools in developing urban areas. The study utilized SWOT technology to examine the internal and external factors, the AHP method to prioritize the factors to make them measurable, and GIS geospatial zonal analysis. This integrated approach provides a comprehensive evaluation of internal and external factors affecting urban land use, with a focus on quantifying priorities for sustainable urban development. The study's results offer a detailed assessment of the social, economic, infrastructure, and environmental aspects of Ibb City, highlighting the interaction between these elements in urban planning. Importantly, the findings extend beyond the local context, presenting a scalable and adaptable model for urban planning, particularly in developing countries with similar urban dynamics. The study underscores the critical role of strategic, data-driven planning in fostering sustainable urban environments, offering significant insights and tools for policymakers and urban planners for sustainable urban growth.