The initiative was launched by the Fund for Development and Reconstruction of Libya in partnership with the Urban Planning Authority, under the direct supervision of Eng. Belgasem Khalifa Haftar, Director General of the Fund.

Because it is Libya’s cultural and economic capital, strategically located on the Mediterranean, representing both a national symbol of resilience and an opportunity to build a pioneering urban model.

To prepare an integrated urban master plan for Benghazi 2050 that addresses urban, economic, social, and environmental dimensions, with a focus on developing the Central Business District (CBD).

Local and international companies specialized in urban planning and architecture with a minimum of five years of experience and a proven record of delivering major projects.

A large number of international companies and institutions are expected to participate, in addition to local experts.

Quality, innovation, sustainability, alignment with local identity, economic feasibility, and implementation capacity.

Through independent evaluation committees comprising local and international experts, with the evaluation criteria and results announced in full transparency.

Yes, the initiative encourages the participation of Libyan universities, research centers, and civil society to ensure that the master plan reflects the real aspirations of the community.

Long-term outcomes
The most important long-term outcomes of the Libya Reconstruction & Development Fund’s initiative include agreements and memoranda of understanding with leading consulting firms specializing in urban planning, to deliver:

• Preparation of Benghazi’s comprehensive master plan 2050, including the strategic vision for urban expansion and future land use.

• Detailed subdivision plans, zoning regulations, and street naming.

• Precise cadastral maps at a scale of 1:1000, based on aerial surveys of the target area.

• A comprehensive evaluation of the current development program and its impact on the city and surrounding regions.

• An integrated study of informal settlements inside and outside the master plan, addressing options for upgrading or removal.

• An urban vision for developing the CBD, sub-centers (SC), neighborhood centers (NC), main corridors, the waterfront, public squares, and the central park.

• Specialized studies in the transport sector, including main corridors and connectivity across the city.

• Comprehensive strategies for transportation, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability to ensure balanced and eco-friendly development.

• Accompanying social and economic programs aimed at stimulating growth, supporting investments, and improving quality of life.

Short-term outcomes
Participants will submit urban design proposals for the CBD, which will serve as technical benchmarks for evaluation. These include:

• A preliminary development vision outlining identity, project components, and future growth directions (report).

• A concept master plan showing key activities, spatial relationships, and the overall urban framework (scale 1:2000).

• Initial land-use scenarios (residential, commercial, service, recreational, and green areas) (scale 1:2000).

• A detailed plan for the target area, including zoning, subdivisions, building heights, and visual design elements (scale 1:1000).

• A general framework for mobility networks: main roads, pedestrian and bicycle paths, and internal/external connections (scale 1:2000).

• Illustrative designs of public spaces and urban facades (plazas, parks, gathering areas, 3D renderings).

• A preliminary infrastructure and services framework (water, energy, communications), integrating sustainability principles (technical report).

• Initial social and economic recommendations to support economic activities and improve quality of life (technical report).

• Any technical requirements supporting the preliminary design vision, such as physical models and conceptual films (as needed).

The initiative follows a phased schedule, including preparation, submission of proposals, evaluation, and finalization of the master plan within 18–24 months.

• Creation of direct and indirect job opportunities

• Enhanced attractiveness for foreign investment

• Establishment of specialized economic zones

• Stimulating the local economy

Absolutely. The plan includes strategies for renewable energy, water and waste management, low-carbon transport, and expanded green spaces.

The local community is a key partner through workshops, surveys, and public dialogues, ensuring the plan reflects real needs and aspirations.

By providing affordable housing, advanced infrastructure, healthcare and education facilities, public spaces, and an efficient urban transport system that enhances comfort and safety.

Yes, preserving urban heritage and landmarks such as Qasr al-Manar, Souq al-Dhalam, and the lighthouse is a top priority of the master plan.

Yes, the initiative serves as a platform for economic and diplomatic partnerships between Libya and global institutions, through memoranda of understanding and investment agreements.

It is not a conventional plan but an open international competition founded on transparency, community participation, and the use of cutting-edge digital technologies.

Yes, the organizers will grant incentives and recognition to winning companies and proposals, as a way to honor contributions and foster innovation and positive competition.

Unlike traditional models, GCUPI-B:

• Attracts creativity through an open competition among leading global firms.

• Combines local input with international expertise in a participatory planning process.

• Establishes a future-ready, sustainable city firmly rooted in its identity.