Are car-free lifestyles feasible in low-density, sprawling contexts? A comparison of Australia and Saudi Arabia.

The research thesis is concerned with the concept of the impact of a car-free lifestyle among residents of urban cities, especially in low and sprawling density and on their environment after Covid-19 pandemic in both Saudi Arabia and Australia. This thesis includes case studies from both Saudi Arabia and Australia. It will identify the behavioral, environmental and social dimensions of the urban city dwellers, and the changing implications of not using the car-free lifestyle. Not only that, the thesis will discuss the measures needed to maintain the current and future planning structure of urban areas in Australia and Saudi Arabia to make urban cities more sustainable. All of this effectively contributes to the sustainability of both urban planning and the ecosystem, which in turn will help the Australian and Saudi people to thrive.

Advisors: Dr Dorina Pojani, Dr Sara Alidoust

Funding: Saudi Government via Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud University