This conceptual and exploratory research study investigates, systematically and holistically, climate‐adaptive spatial design interventions for high‐density informal urban areas in hot arid climates, which remain understudied despite their vulnerability to heat stress and the heat‐vulnerable groups populating them. Five streetscape design prototypes are proposed that include climate‐adaptive spatial interventions appraised qualitatively with consideration to relevant feasibility matters: land use planning, equity, affordability, mobility, and sense of place. The study shows that there is potential for climate‐adaptive interventions in informal urban areas in hot arid climates, but that these interventions also present challenges. Common climate‐adaptive design strategies can be used to address heat stress in these areas but, for example, increasing vegetation might be challenging due to water stress. As a conceptual study, the findings presented and the discussion raised on feasibility are targeted at opening avenues for future research, and at informing decision‐makers and spatial designers.

In the last years, the world has jumped rapidly towards more urbanization, and for the first time in the history of 2008 urban population exceeded the rural population. By 2050, it is expected that two-thirds of the world population will live in urban areas. Because of this rapid urbanization worldwide, smart cities emerged as a significant formation of cities that help in achieving sustainable development and smart growth. Smart cities definition varies depending on whom you talk to, the main mission of a smart city is to optimize city functions and lead economic growth as well as, improving quality of life for its residents using smart technology and data analysis. Designing a smart city is not happening on the spot, it needs visionary leadership to lead the emerging of the smart city and its architecture platform. The conceptualization of Smart city, varies from country to another, depending on many aspects including the level of development' of the country. A smart city in Europe or India will have different characteristics compared to a smart city in the Arab world. The Internet of things IoT is defined as an integrated part of the future Internet, which ensures that `things' with identities can communicate and connect to each other. The application of the IoT architecture needs different architecture, leadership, and architect. This research paper aims to explore the principles of designing a smart city by understanding the IoT architecture of the creation of smart cities, especially in the Arab world. The research is documentary research with a case study analysis to understand the principles of smart cities with emphasis on the IoT Architecture. Case studies will be a world example of smart cities that followed IoT architecture platform.

Urban streets in hot climates often suffer from inadequate shade, exacerbating pedestrian discomfort, urban heat island effects, and energy demands for cooling. Traditional tree-planting approaches overlook dynamic solar paths, building-induced shadows, and spacing requirements, resulting in suboptimal shade coverage and resource inefficiency. This study introduces a computational workflow in Rhino/Grasshopper to optimize tree placement and canopy radii through analysis of solar radiation and shadow patterns. By prioritizing sun-exposed zones, minimizing shadow overlaps, and ensuring growth-appropriate distances, the tool enhances shade distribution. Integration of parametric modeling and environmental simulations improved thermal comfort, reduced energy use, and evidence-based urban planning strategies. Across ten optimization runs, the workflow achieved a 68% increase in shade coverage, an 11.5 °C reduction in mean radiant temperature (MRT), and a 72% decrease in the spatial extent of high-risk heat-exposure zones, demonstrating its potential for climate-adaptive street design in hot-arid environments.