The peri-urban interface in Damascus: comparative synthesis across theoretical and applied methodologies

Due to the difference in terminologies and defining criteria in different locations, defining peri-urban areas is controversial among urban planning researchers. In Damascus case, this ambiguity challenges post-war planning. Through a three-stage comparative analysis, this paper outlines global frameworks for peri-urban areas, examines seven studies in Damascus before the conflict, and compares local approaches with international standards. This research reveals the lack of clear spatial definition methods in most studies and systematically reduce peri-urban areas to mere urban extensions. As Syria entered a critical post-war phase, this study provides a foundation for adopting a unified definition framework in Damascus future strategies.