As cities worldwide face increasing pressures from rapid urbanisation, climate change and evolving socio-economic dynamics, the need for resilient, inclusive and future-ready urban environments has never been greater.

Dubai Municipality, through its innovative policies and strategic frameworks, has positioned itself as a global leader in urban development. The Cities’ Livability in the Age of Global Citizenship report at the World Government Summit 2025 highlights how cities can embrace sustainability, resilience and inclusivity to enhance the quality of life for their residents.

Anchored in the Dubai Urban Plan 2040 and the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy, this vision for urban development reflects Dubai’s proactive and data-driven approach to shaping the cities of tomorrow.

A forward-looking approach to urban liveability

The Cities’ Livability in the Age of Global Citizenship report provides a comprehensive examination of the factors that contribute to liveable cities, integrating economic, environmental and social sustainability principles. The report introduces the C3P3 framework, a holistic model designed to help urban leaders navigate the complexities of modern city planning. It underscores the importance of adaptability in city governance, calling for an approach that balances urban expansion with environmental conservation, digital transformation and infrastructure efficiency.

The Dubai Urban Plan 2040, a global benchmark in urban development, aligns with the principles set out in the report. The plan envisions a future where 80% of the population lives within a 20-minute reach of essential services, ensuring better accessibility and urban efficiency. It also aims for 100% diversion of residential waste from landfills, reinforcing Dubai’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

Additionally, 60% of Dubai’s land is allocated for nature conservation, with 11 square metres of public green space per capita, demonstrating the city’s commitment to integrating sustainability into its infrastructure while fostering community wellbeing and encouraging active lifestyles.

The C3P3 framework: A blueprint for future cities

The framework is an innovative model for urban liveability, designed around six key dimensions: C3P3 Connected, Collaborative, Circular, Safe, Proactive and Present. These pillars provide a structured approach to building resilient and sustainable cities that address contemporary urban challenges while preparing for future demands.

• Connected: A well-connected city is essential for economic and social prosperity. Dubai has made significant investments in transport infrastructure, smart mobility solutions and digital connectivity, ensuring seamless urban movement and accessibility.
  
   
• Collaborative: A truly liveable city fosters engagement between government agencies, private stakeholders and residents. Through participatory governance and public-private partnerships, Dubai continues to integrate community voices into urban planning.
  
   
• Circular: Sustainability is at the heart of Dubai’s development strategy. The city has adopted a circular economy approach, prioritising waste reduction, resource efficiency and clean energy solutions to drive long-term urban sustainability.
  
   
• Safe: Urban safety and resilience are critical to ensuring a high quality of life. Dubai’s proactive approach to disaster preparedness, food security and climate adaptation positions it as a leader in resilient city planning.
  
   
• Proactive: Smart city technologies, artificial intelligence-driven urban planning and data-driven governance ensure that Dubai remains agile in responding to evolving urban challenges. The city’s commitment to paperless government and human-centric services sets a global precedent.
  
   
• Present: Dubai’s investment in city branding, cultural infrastructure and international collaborations reinforces its role as a global hub for talent, business and innovation. By positioning itself as a leading smart city, Dubai attracts top-tier talent and fosters a vibrant, future-ready economy.

By integrating the principles of the Year of Community into its broader urban planning strategies, Dubai Municipality is setting a global example of how cities can be both technologically advanced and deeply rooted in community values

The Year of Community 2025: Strengthening the social fabric of Dubai

The UAE’s declaration of 2025 as the Year of Community provides an additional strategic layer to Dubai’s urban planning efforts. As Dubai Municipality prioritises urban liveability, the Year of Community initiative strengthens the commitment to fostering connected and inclusive neighbourhoods. Through investments in public spaces, community-driven urban design and enhanced social engagement programmes, Dubai aims to create more vibrant and socially cohesive urban environments.

The initiative aligns with Dubai’s long-term urban strategies by promoting inclusivity, civic engagement and wellbeing. Community-focused projects, such as expanding public parks, creating pedestrian-friendly zones and enhancing digital connectivity, ensure that urban development is not just about infrastructure but also about nurturing strong social bonds.

By integrating the principles of the Year of Community into its broader urban planning strategies, Dubai Municipality is setting a global example of how cities can be both technologically advanced and deeply rooted in community values.

Building sustainable, inclusive communities

Dubai’s commitment to sustainability and urban liveability extends beyond infrastructure and economic development. The Dubai Quality of Life Strategy aims to enhance social well-being by creating vibrant, inclusive and accessible urban spaces. The strategy emphasises community engagement, equitable access to services and the integration of cultural, recreational and wellness initiatives into urban planning.

Key initiatives under this strategy include expanding public parks, improving air quality and promoting eco-friendly urban mobility. By focusing on a people-centric approach, Dubai ensures that urban development is not just about building structures but about fostering a thriving, connected and happy society.

By integrating smart city innovations, environmental stewardship and inclusive urban policies, Dubai is not only redefining urban liveability but also providing a blueprint for cities worldwide to follow

A global leader in urban development

Dubai Municipality’s proactive and strategic urban planning efforts demonstrate a commitment to shaping a future where cities are resilient, sustainable and adaptive to emerging global challenges. The Cities’ Livability in the Age of Global Citizenship report, together with the Dubai Urban Plan 2040, the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy and the Year of Community 2025 initiative, positions Dubai as a model for forward-thinking urban governance.

By integrating smart city innovations, environmental stewardship and inclusive urban policies, Dubai is not only redefining urban liveability but also providing a blueprint for cities worldwide to follow. As urban populations continue to grow, Dubai Municipality’s pioneering approach offers valuable lessons on how to balance progress with sustainability, ensuring that cities remain places of opportunity, wellbeing and prosperity for all.