Percolating Perspectives with Dr. Murtaza Haider

By 2050, two-thirds of the global population will call a city home. This massive shift means the blueprints we draw today will dictate how billions of people live, move, and thrive for generations. But as our world grows more complex, traditional urban planning is being challenged by the rapid-fire pressures of climate change, economic volatility, and land-use demands.

Join Murtaza Haider, professor & executive director at Cities Institute at the University of Alberta, to hear about the future of cities. By 2050, two-thirds of the world’s population will live in cities. The decisions we make today will shape how we live, work, move and thrive tomorrow. Future-proofing our cities and communities is an evolving and increasingly complex process. Wide ranging factors from urbanization and land use to climate change and economic growth are challenging traditional approaches to the development of our communities.

Arrive early to enjoy some light breakfast fare before the presentation. It’s the perfect opportunity to fuel up and connect with fellow attendees interested in the evolution of our urban landscapes.

Agenda

• Networking & Light Refreshments: Arrive early to enjoy mid-morning fare and connect with fellow urban enthusiasts, industry leaders, and community builders.
• Keynote Presentation: Dr. Murtaza Haider on The Future of Cities.
• Interactive Dialogue: A session fueled by your questions and a look at how Alberta can lead the way in creating global urban solutions.

Speaker Bio

Dr. Murtaza Haider is a Professor and the Radhe Krishna Gupta Executive Chair in Cities and Communities at the University of Alberta’s School of Business. As the Executive Director of the Cities Institute, he serves as a leading voice in bridging the gap between sophisticated data science and practical urban development.

With a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering and a Master’s in Transport Engineering from the University of Toronto, Dr. Haider’s expertise spans housing market dynamics, transportation infrastructure and human development. He has previously held senior leadership roles at Toronto Metropolitan University and McGill University, where he founded the Urban Systems Lab. Today, he focuses on positioning Alberta as a global leader in creating sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant real-world solutions for the challenges of tomorrow.

Registration Notes

Secure your spot and save time. Add pre-paid parking to your ticket purchase at checkout for $15. Valid in Lots U and N from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Space is limited. Registration will close when the event reaches capacity, or on June 16, 2026.