Comprehensive Assessment of the Development Potential of the Makhachkala Agglomeration

9 February – 30 April 2026
The Republic of Dagestan

The study is aimed at updating and identifying the potential and key development directions of the Makhachkala agglomeration in order to ensure balanced long-term socio-economic and spatial development. It will serve as the basis for the subsequent preparation of a master plan. As part of the study, a framework concept for the integrated spatial development of the agglomeration territory and conceptual solutions for priority actions are also to be developed.

Objectives:

  • Assess the current situation and identify development challenges of municipalities within the boundaries of the Makhachkala agglomeration.
  • Define prospects for sustainable development and the urban planning potential of the agglomeration.
  • Develop a preliminary scenario for the spatial development of the Makhachkala agglomeration.

Tasks:

  • Improve the Urban and Rural Environment Quality Index.
  • Identify territories suitable for integrated and sustainable development.
  • Create a foundation for informed decision-making on spatial and infrastructure development.
  • Select and justify measures capable of delivering short-term impact (“quick wins”).

According to Sergey Melikov, Head of the Republic of Dagestan, developing the Makhachkala agglomeration through master planning “will, in the long term, help bring order to land and property relations, urban development and architecture, properly unlock the potential of key viewpoints and centers of attraction, and create a continuous network of embankments and public spaces.”

The Makhachkala agglomeration is the largest urbanized area in the North Caucasus. It includes the city of Makhachkala, the city of Kaspiysk, the Karabudakhkent and Kumtorkalinsky districts, covering a total area of approximately 3,181.9 sq km and with a population exceeding one million people.

Stages of the Study:

  • Comprehensive analysis and identification of key development directions for municipalities within the Makhachkala agglomeration.
  • Collection and analysis of baseline data.
  • February 9–12 – on-site inspection and photographic documentation of the territory.
  • March 2–6 – strategic session to discuss the preliminary spatial development scenario for the Makhachkala agglomeration, involving experts, representatives of state and municipal authorities, and the business community.
  • Development of a framework concept for the integrated spatial development of the Makhachkala agglomeration.
  • Development of conceptual solutions for priority actions.
  • Preparation of the final analytical report and obtaining conclusions from профильные structural departments of the Makhachkala City Administration.


The study will form the basis for systemic decisions on managing the development of the agglomeration and for substantiating investment attraction. Proposals for developing urban frameworks, priority territories, and systematically improving the quality and comfort of the urban environment, formulated as part of the study, will later help identify key development projects.

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