Dubai Municipality and Sia co-launch new vision for future cities

Dubai Municipality has teamed up with management consultancy Sia to launch a new framework that details how its award-winning urban development approach can help other cities in the world remain liveable, resilient, sustainable, and globally competitive.
The report offers a forward-looking perspective on urban liveability, integrating economic, environmental, and social sustainability principles into a comprehensive model for the cities of the future. It underscores the importance of enhancing quality of life as urban populations expand and their needs become increasingly diverse.
The approach advocated by Dubai Municipality is called the C3P3 Framework, which offers city leaders a “strategic roadmap to improve quality of life, drive sustainable development, and foster resilient, inclusive urban environments.” The framework is based on six key dimensions: Connected, Collaborative, Circular, Protected, Proactive, and Present.
The C3P3 Framework was developed in conjunction with Sia, and served as an important framework during the development of Dubai Urban Master Plan 2040, which has since its launch grown into a global benchmark for strategic urban planning and sustainable development.
Dubai Urban Master Plan 2040
The Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan envisions a future where 80% of the population resides within a 20-minute reach of essential services, enhancing accessibility and urban efficiency. One of the key objectives of the plan is to manage waste through sustainable methods instead of landfill disposal, reinforcing Dubai’s commitment to environmental sustainability and resource efficiency.
Additionally, the plan protects 60% of the emirate’s land for nature conservation, safeguarding biodiversity and expanding green spaces. It also ensures the provision of 11 square metres of public green space per capita, integrating sustainability into the city’s infrastructure, enhancing residents' wellbeing, and fostering healthier lifestyles.
Marwan Bin Ghalita, Acting Director General of Dubai Municipality, said: “The C3P3 Framework serves as a valuable reference for city leaders, offering comprehensive insights to rethink urban liveability in a rapidly evolving world filled with challenges that impact the development and growth of smart cities.”
“Dubai Municipality remains committed to the management, planning, and governance of Dubai's advanced infrastructure while pursuing future aspirations to position the city as a global leader in sustainability and quality of life. By adopting pioneering urban solutions that redefine the future of city life, Dubai stands as a living, breathing example of what the cities of the future should embody.”
Sanaa Al Alili, Director of the Urban Planning Department at Dubai Municipality, highlighted the C3P3 Framework’s emphasis on resilience and sustainability as key pillars shaping the cities of the future. “Resilience and sustainability are key elements of urban development. These efforts are essential to ensuring sustainable urban expansion, establishing a robust urban planning system, and building integrated communities that are liveable, safe, accessible, and inclusive, while delivering the highest levels of well-being and quality of life.”
Speaking on behalf of Sia (formerly Sia Partners), Associate Partner Cesar Moukarzel noted: “A truly liveable city is more than just a place to reside – it is a hub of opportunity, sustainability, and innovation. By integrating connectivity, collaboration, and sustainability, cities can apply the C3P3 Framework to generate a clear and actionable roadmap for cities to enhance urban liveability in a way that is adaptable to diverse contexts.”