The notion of inclusiveness in urban development is often correlated with the level of participation and engagement of the citizens in the decision‐making process and governance of their cities which means involvement in matters that directly affect the quality of life and the realization of their fundamental rights in the city where they live and work. In other words, inclusiveness is closely associated with participatory mechanisms that empower citizens and urban dwellers to exercise their rights in decisions about the future of their city.

Furthermore, the achievement of inclusive cities is inexorably associated with the availability and accessibility of affordable housing options at scale so that all the different social and economic segments of society can find a place to live in the city. It means a home that is safe, provided with basic infrastructure and services, and well‐located vis‐à‐vis jobs and employment opportunities. This brings to the forefront the locational attribute of housing and access to serviced land as fundamental conditions for the realization of inclusive cities.