Microclimate Performance Analysis of Urban Vegetation: Evidence from Hot Humid Middle Eastern Cities

Urban heat islands (UHIs) pose a growing challenge in rapidly urbanizing areas, necessitating effective mitigation strategies to enhance environmental sustainability and human well-being. This study examined the role of vegetation in regulating urban microclimates, focusing on its ability to mitigate the effects of UHIs, promote thermal comfort, and enhance urban esthetics. The study drew on existing research that employed spatial analysis and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to explore the relationship between vegetation metrics and reductions in surface temperature. Municipal initiatives in Khobar, Saudi Arabia, including tree-planting programs and street humanization projects, aimed to improve urban esthetics and pedestrian experiences. Although these efforts enhanced urban livability, they lacked a comprehensive ecological perspective, emphasizing the need for strategies that integrate thermal comfort, environmental resilience, and broader sustainability goals. The analysis demonstrated the societal and environmental benefits of tree-planting activities and linked urban vegetation plans to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The results highlighted the importance of incorporating green infrastructure in urban development to mitigate the effects of UHIs, improve air quality, and enhance overall urban livability. This paper proposed a framework for sustainable urban design, offering practical insights for policymakers and urban planners working to create resilient, environmentally conscious communities in extreme climates.