Latest news with #GlobalLiveabilityIndex
Time Out
14-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Time Out
Melbourne has dramatically dropped in the latest global happiest cities rankings
There are plenty of reasons to smile about living in Melbourne right now – from world-class dining to exciting new stage productions. But in news that doesn't make us feel like smiling, apparently Melburnians are much unhappier than they were last year, according to the 2025 Happy City Index. It seems we need to turn our frowns upside down. Now in its sixth year, the Happy City Index ranks 200 cities around the world using 82 indicators across six categories: governance, environment, economy, mobility, citizen wellbeing and health. These cities are then awarded gold, silver or bronze status based on their overall ranking. In the last 12 months, Melbourne's happy city ranking has dropped drastically. And unfortunately, it wasn't that high to begin with. In 2024, Melbourne ranked 41st on the Happy City Index. Now, our city has dropped to equal 67th place on the list. Ouch. The factors Melbourne ranked lowest for were economy and mobility (the efficiency and quality of public transport). But on the positive side, Melbourne still claimed a silver medal, and our city ranked as the third happiest in Australia. We fell behind Adelaide, which placed 29th, and Canberra which placed 51st on the global list. According to the index, Sydney is the 75th happiest city worldwide, and Brisbane is the 78th. So as far as Aussie cities go, Melbourne definitely isn't the saddest place to be. So which cities across the whole wide world are the happiest? Copenhagen in Denmark was named as the top happy city, followed by Zurich in Switzerland. Singapore was ranked in third place, followed by Aarhus in Denmark and Antwerp in Belgium. In the grand scheme of things, Melbourne placing in the top 100 happiest cities worldwide is still a reason to smile. Considering our city ranked as the fourth most liveable worldwide in the latest highly-regarded Global Liveability Index, it's still undoubtedly very good place to be.
Zawya
07-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Abu Dhabi completed $1.1bln road infrastructure projects in 2024
The Department of Municipalities and Transport – Abu Dhabi (DMT) has announced its key accomplishments for 2024, showcasing robust development and innovation in diverse communities across Abu Dhabi. The year marked the successful completion of AED4 billion ($1.1 billion) worth of key projects, part of a broader set of long-term initiatives with a total budget exceeding AED75 billion ($20.4 billion), said the ministry. DMT also re-affirmed its position as a significant contributor and driver of growth, stability and safety in Abu Dhabi, highlighted by the emirate being named the number one most liveable city in the Mena region by the Economist Intelligence Unit's Global Liveability Index, and one of the safest in the world according to the Crime and Safety Indices by Numebo. Abu Dhabi City was also ranked one of the top ten smartest cities in the world by the International Institute for Management Development, it stated. Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman, DMT, said: "The future-focused AED75 billion-plus budget embodies an ambitious vision to enhance infrastructure, elevate services, and promote urban development across the emirate. We strongly believe that these investments are a vital step towards building a solid, holistic foundation for the future." "These initiatives reaffirm our dedication to our leadership's vision of enhancing the quality of life for our communities as well as meeting residents' aspirations for smart city living and environmental sustainability," he added. According to him, DMT invested AED3.4 billion in the completion of key mobility and road network projects including the expansion of the Helio-Abu Al Abiyad Road in Al Dhafra Region; and a double-bridge project with a total value of AED315 million that reduced average morning peak-hour delays by up to 80% on Abu Dhabi's Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street. Other notable roadworks completed in the last 12 months include a major overhaul of Al Ain Region's 760-m landmark Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street, which now features a new 1.5 km cycling track, an event plaza, and landscaping with over 780 trees in addition to shade structures. Abu Dhabi emirate also got 247km of new cycling paths, bringing the total length of dedicated tracks to more than 1,200 kilometres. The DMT's key achievements included the opening of more than 200 parks and beaches across the emirate in addition to the reopening of the landmark Al Bateen Ladies Club, which underscores its focus on creating inclusive and accessible spaces for all. -TradeArabia News Service Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Trade Arabia
05-04-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Abu Dhabi completed $1.1bn infrastructure projects in 2024
The Department of Municipalities and Transport – Abu Dhabi (DMT) has announced its key accomplishments for 2024, showcasing robust development and innovation in diverse communities across Abu Dhabi. The year marked the successful completion of AED4 billion ($1.1 billion) worth of key projects, part of a broader set of long-term initiatives with a total budget exceeding AED75 billion ($20.4 billion), said the ministry. DMT also re-affirmed its position as a significant contributor and driver of growth, stability and safety in Abu Dhabi, highlighted by the emirate being named the number one most liveable city in the Mena region by the Economist Intelligence Unit's Global Liveability Index, and one of the safest in the world according to the Crime and Safety Indices by Numebo. Abu Dhabi City was also ranked one of the top ten smartest cities in the world by the International Institute for Management Development, it stated. Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman, DMT, said: "The future-focused AED75 billion-plus budget embodies an ambitious vision to enhance infrastructure, elevate services, and promote urban development across the emirate. We strongly believe that these investments are a vital step towards building a solid, holistic foundation for the future." "These initiatives reaffirm our dedication to our leadership's vision of enhancing the quality of life for our communities as well as meeting residents' aspirations for smart city living and environmental sustainability," he added. According to him, DMT invested AED3.4 billion in the completion of key mobility and road network projects including the expansion of the Helio-Abu Al Abiyad Road in Al Dhafra Region; and a double-bridge project with a total value of AED315 million that reduced average morning peak-hour delays by up to 80% on Abu Dhabi's Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street. Other notable roadworks completed in the last 12 months include a major overhaul of Al Ain Region's 760-m landmark Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street, which now features a new 1.5 km cycling track, an event plaza, and landscaping with over 780 trees in addition to shade structures. Abu Dhabi emirate also got 247km of new cycling paths, bringing the total length of dedicated tracks to more than 1,200 kilometres.
Arabian Business
04-04-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Abu Dhabi reviews 2024 successes: $1.1bn key project investments, $26.2bn real estate boom, AI plans, air taxi trials and more
Abu Dhabi's Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has unveiled its key accomplishments for 2024, showcasing a transformative period of development and innovation for diverse communities across the emirate. The year was defined by the successful completion of AED4bn ($1.1bn) worth of key projects, which were part of a broader set of long-term initiatives with a total budget exceeding AED75bn ($20.4bn). The DMT also re-affirmed its position as a significant contributor and driver of the Emirate's growth, stability, and safety. This was highlighted by Abu Dhabi being named as the number one most liveable city in the MENA region by the Economist Intelligence Unit's Global Liveability Index and one of the safest in the world according to the Crime and Safety Indices by Numebo. The capital city was also ranked as one of the top ten smartest cities in the world by the International Institute for Management Development. Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the DMT, said: 'The future-focused AED75bn ($20.4bn)-plus budget embodies an ambitious vision to enhance infrastructure, elevate services, and promote urban development across the Emirate. 'We strongly believe that these investments are a vital step towards building a solid, holistic foundation for the future. These initiatives reaffirm our dedication to our leadership's vision of enhancing the quality of life for our communities as well as meeting residents' aspirations for smart city living and environmental sustainability.' Abu Dhabi strategic road networks DMT invested AED3.4bn ($926m) towards the completion of key mobility and road network projects including the expansion of the Helio-Abu Al Abiyad Road in Al Dhafra Region; and a double-bridge project with a total value of AED315m ($86m) that reduced average morning peak-hour delays by up to 80 per cent on the capital's vital Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street. Other notable roadworks completed in the past 12 months have included a complete overhaul of Al Ain's 760m landmark Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street, now featuring a new 1.5km cycling track, an event plaza, and landscaping with over 780 trees in addition to shade structures. Furthermore, the Emirate saw 247km of new cycling paths bringing the total length of dedicated tracks to more than 1,200km. Enhancing community spaces in Abu Dhabi DMT prioritised the development of community-centric projects, many of which were delivered through Al Tawajud Al Baladi (Municipal Presence Centres). These centres, which operate more than 20 facilities across the Emirate, serve as vital hubs for engaging with residents, addressing local needs, and enhancing public services. The developments included the opening of over 200 parks and beaches across the Emirate in addition to the reopening of the landmark Al Bateen Ladies Club, which underscores the Department's focus on creating inclusive and accessible spaces for all. Moreover, the introduction of the Abu Dhabi Canvas initiative further highlighted DMT's efforts to enrich the city's urban landscape through creativity and innovation. Abu Dhabi real estate The Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC), a DMT affiliate, reported a year of remarkable growth, with 28,249 transactions, a 24.2 per cent increase over the last year, bringing the sector's total value to AED96.2bn ($26.2bn). This included 16,735 sales transactions worth AED58.5bn ($16bn) and 11,514 mortgage transactions totalling AED37.7bn ($10.3bn), reinforcing Abu Dhabi's appeal as a prime investment destination. Redefining mobility in Abu Dhabi 2024 proved to be a turning point for mobility, with the inaugural Abu Dhabi Mobility Week showcasing the industry's best-in-class innovations while providing an open forum for stakeholders to collaborate in realising their visions through real-life practical use cases. This transformation was witnessed through the region's first passenger-carrying drone trials, marking a milestone in urban air mobility. The event featured two test flights: the first showcased a five-seater drone capable of travelling more than 25km with a payload of up to 350kg, while the second demonstrated a smaller drone designed to carry two passengers, covering up to 35km in approximately 20 minutes. Further solidifying its leadership in next-generation transport, Abu Dhabi also announced a government-wide partnership with Joby Aviation to establish the Emirate's first fully autonomous, electric air taxi ecosystem. The Department in 2024 also saw past investments in public transportation yielding positive results, with over 90m rides recorded in public buses, and more than 168,000 passengers making use of Abu Dhabi's water transportation network, along with over 28m air passengers highlighting the Emirate's enhanced infrastructure and seamless transport connectivity. Pioneering AI in Abu Dhabi The Department displayed a strong commitment to embracing AI applications in its operations and in the daily lives of the Emirate's population. This was showcased most notably through a centralised, real-time, data-driven platform that allows city planners and decision makers to optimise liveability standards based on the needs of residents across different areas and districts in the capital. The dynamic 3D modelling system, which uses AI Digital Twin capabilities, is growing to be a tentpole of smart technology application in city management and urban living. Throughout the year, DMT introduced other key initiatives, such as an AI-enabled architectural review platform that accelerates construction and building projects' approvals using generative AI and 3D model analysis. Also, the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), a DMT affiliate, incorporated an AI engine into its operations that provides in-depth insights into transportation and commuter behavioural patterns. This is set to be pivotal in decision-making processes for managing large-scale mobility operations. Elevating construction standards in Abu Dhabi DMT advanced regulatory frameworks with initiatives enhancing compliance, safety, and quality in Abu Dhabi's construction and engineering sector. These included the launch of the Building Occupancy and Legalisation Certification Programme to improve building safety and sustainability across the Emirate. It also introduced the Performance Evaluation and Engineering Excellence System for architectural and engineering firms, as well as mandatory certification exams for licensed engineers. Strategic partnerships and global collaborations DMT strengthened its global partnerships in 2024, which encompass the signing of a twin city agreement with Shenzhen following the successful organisation of the Abu Dhabi X Shenzhen Innovation Forum, and a Friendship City agreement with Seoul, marking a new chapter in the bolstering of ties between the two capitals. Other notable international developments throughout the year comprised a collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to establish the DMT Future Hub as a centre of excellence in urban, mobility, and sustainable development. Additionally, the Department launched the World Smart Sustainable Cities Organisation's MENA regional office and won the bid to host the 2025 WeGO Executive Committee Meeting, reinforcing Abu Dhabi's leadership in sustainable city advancements. Shaping Abu Dhabi's future: strategic projects to enhance liveability The Department of Municipalities and Transport is set to announce a range of strategic projects in the coming months, designed to strengthen Abu Dhabi's reputation as one of the most liveable cities in the MENA region and position it among the world's top ten smart cities. These initiatives are part of the Department's commitment to Abu Dhabi's long-lasting growth, while introducing forward-thinking strategies that continue to enhance the Emirate's liveability standards.
Gulf Insider
04-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Abu Dhabi Unveils Dh75 Billion Vision, Delivers Dh4 Billion In Landmark Projects In 2024
Abu Dhabi Municipality completed major development projects worth over Dh 4 billion in 2024, contributing to its goal of becoming the Middle East and North Africa's most livable city, according to global indicators. The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) announced these achievements, highlighting a year of significant progress and innovation. The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) highlighted its key achievements for the year, marking significant progress and innovation in Abu Dhabi. The department successfully delivered a variety of strategic projects, with a total value of AED 4 billion, aimed at benefiting all segments of society as part of its comprehensive development plan, supported by a total budget exceeding Dh 75 billion. DMT also reinforced its role as a key driver of growth, stability, and safety in the emirate. This was further emphasized by Abu Dhabi being ranked as the most livable city in the MENA region by the Economist Intelligence Unit's Global Liveability Index and one of the safest cities worldwide according to Numbeo's Crime and Safety Indices. Additionally, Abu Dhabi City was recognized as one of the top ten smartest cities globally by the International Institute for Management Development. Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of DMT, stated, 'The forward-looking Dh 75 billion budget reflects an ambitious vision to enhance infrastructure, improve services, and foster urban development across the emirate. We are confident that these investments are a crucial step in building a solid foundation for the future. These efforts align with our leadership's vision of improving the quality of life for our communities and fulfilling residents' aspirations for smart city living and environmental sustainability.' DMT invested Dh3.4 billion in the completion of key mobility and road network projects, including the expansion of the Helio-Abu Al Abiyad Road in the Al Dhafra Region and a double-bridge project with a total value of Dh 315 million, which reduced average morning peak-hour delays by up to 80 per cent on Abu Dhabi's Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street. Other notable roadworks completed in the last 12 months include a complete overhaul of Al Ain Region's 760-meter landmark Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street, which now features a new 1.5-kilometer cycling track, an event plaza, landscaping with over 780 trees, and shade structures. Abu Dhabi emirate also received 247 kilometers of new cycling paths, bringing the total length of dedicated tracks to more than 1,200 kilometers.
