Sustainable urban development while preserving its historical and cultural identity

The object of research is a comprehensive understanding of sustainable development in the urban structure of cities, especially in tourist cities undergoing rapid transformation, by analyzing the methods used in building these cities and their previous experiences with them. The research uses the city of Karbala as an example as it has a necessary historical background and long growth experience. Method. The research analyses the obstacles to their urban environment, structure, and components to understand and evaluate the strategies used in their development to promote sustainable development. These challenges require immediate and comprehensive intervention. Emphasis is placed on the development and achievement of sustainable development in various city centers and their internal and external neighborhoods. The comprehensive analysis of current and future challenges and urgent needs for a more sustainable urban environment and an improved quality of life for the city's population is reflected. Results. By achieving these goals, the city of Karbala can achieve a balanced and sustainable urban environment and improve the quality of life of its citizens. This requires close cooperation between local government, stakeholders, and the community and effective integration of efforts to implement development policies and programs while preserving historical and cultural identity of cities.