Already one of the most urbanized regions in the world, the Middle East will continue to grow in the coming decades. In most cities of the region, urbanization has not progressed via the adoption of an overarching “master plan”. As such, some of the benefits of urbanization seen elsewhere (particularly as relates to reduction of carbon emissions), have not materialized. In a region already living at the extremes, potential climate induced amplifications have a significant disruptive potential in terms of the livability, functionality and basic operation of the region's cities. Establishing resilient and sustainable urban environments through climate informed design, infrastructure amendment, adaptation and feedback systems is an imperative for Saudi Arabia and the Middle East in general.