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Hi Dubai
13-05-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Trust in Systems: How Dubai Is Building Confidence in Governance
In an era where global trust in governmental institutions is waning, Dubai stands out as a beacon of confidence and innovation. According to the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) ranks third globally in public trust in government performance, with 82% of respondents expressing confidence in their national government. This is notably higher than the global average of 52%. The significance of public trust in governance cannot be overstated. Trust enhances voluntary compliance with public policies, bolsters fiscal capacity through improved tax morale, and facilitates effective policy implementation . Moreover, high levels of trust are associated with better economic performance due to more efficient coordination and decision-making processes. Dubai's unique position as a rapidly modernizing city-state has enabled it to implement forward-thinking strategies that foster public trust. These include major infrastructure programs, sustainability mandates, legal reforms, and population strategies, all aimed at enhancing the quality of life for its residents. This article will delve into the specific strategies and initiatives that Dubai employs to build and maintain public trust in its governance. How has Dubai managed to achieve such high levels of public confidence? What lessons can other governments learn from Dubai's approach? These questions will be explored in the sections that follow. Digital Transformation and Smart Governance Dubai's commitment to digital transformation and smart governance is exemplified through its strategic initiatives in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and artificial intelligence (AI). Smart Dubai Initiative: Integrating ICT and IoT for Enhanced City Services Launched in 2014, the Smart Dubai initiative aims to transform Dubai into the world's smartest and happiest city by leveraging cutting-edge technologies. By integrating ICT and IoT, the initiative seeks to enhance city services, improve quality of life, and promote sustainability. Key implementations include: Smart Infrastructure: Deployment of IoT sensors across the city to monitor and manage utilities, traffic, and environmental conditions in real-time. Deployment of IoT sensors across the city to monitor and manage utilities, traffic, and environmental conditions in real-time. Digital Services: Development of unified platforms that provide residents and visitors with seamless access to government services. Development of unified platforms that provide residents and visitors with seamless access to government services. Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilization of data analytics to inform policy decisions and improve service delivery. These efforts have positioned Dubai as a leader in smart city development, with the city ranking 4th globally in the IMD Smart City Index 2025, leading the GCC, Arab world, and Asia. Blockchain Integration: Pioneering Transparent and Efficient Governance Dubai's ambition to become the first government powered entirely by blockchain technology is realized through the Dubai Blockchain Strategy. This strategy focuses on enhancing efficiency, transparency, and security across various sectors. Notable applications include: Government Transactions: The Emirates Blockchain Strategy 2021 aimed to transform 50% of government transactions into the blockchain platform by 2021, streamlining processes and reducing bureaucracy. The Emirates Blockchain Strategy 2021 aimed to transform 50% of government transactions into the blockchain platform by 2021, streamlining processes and reducing bureaucracy. Trade Operations: Dubai Customs launched a blockchain platform to boost efficiency and transparency in commercial operations, facilitating smoother cross-border trade. Dubai Customs launched a blockchain platform to boost efficiency and transparency in commercial operations, facilitating smoother cross-border trade. Real Estate: The Dubai Land Department implemented blockchain to record real estate contracts, including leases and registrations, linking them to utility and telecom accounts, thereby enhancing transparency and reducing fraud. These initiatives underscore Dubai's commitment to leveraging blockchain for improved governance and service delivery. Artificial Intelligence Strategy: Leading with Innovation In October 2017, the UAE appointed His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama as the world's first Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, marking a significant step in embracing AI at the governmental level. The UAE's National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 outlines the country's vision to become a global leader in AI by integrating it across various sectors. Key implementations in Dubai include: Traffic Management: The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) employs AI-driven systems, such as the iTraffic system, to analyze traffic data and road conditions, optimizing traffic flow and reducing congestion. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) employs AI-driven systems, such as the iTraffic system, to analyze traffic data and road conditions, optimizing traffic flow and reducing congestion. Public Safety: Dubai Police utilizes AI-powered facial recognition and predictive analytics to enhance security and reduce crime rates. Dubai Police utilizes AI-powered facial recognition and predictive analytics to enhance security and reduce crime rates. Emergency Response: AI systems analyze incoming data to guide emergency services, improving response times and resource allocation. These applications demonstrate Dubai's proactive approach to integrating AI into public services, aiming to improve efficiency and citizen satisfaction. Through the strategic implementation of ICT, IoT, blockchain, and AI, Dubai continues to build confidence in its governance systems, setting a benchmark for smart city development worldwide. Enhancing Transparency and Accountability Dubai has implemented several initiatives to enhance transparency and accountability in its governance systems. These efforts aim to foster public trust, encourage citizen participation, and create a more transparent investment environment. Open Data Initiatives: Promoting Transparency and Citizen Engagement Dubai's commitment to open data is evident through various platforms and policies designed to make government data accessible to the public. The UAE's official portal provides a centralized repository of government data, facilitating transparency and informed decision-making. Key benefits of open data initiatives include: Economic Growth and Job Creation: Open data can stimulate economic growth by enabling new businesses, creating jobs, and improving efficiency in existing organizations. Open data can stimulate economic growth by enabling new businesses, creating jobs, and improving efficiency in existing organizations. Improved Public Services: Access to data enhances the effectiveness and coverage of public services, such as healthcare and education. Access to data enhances the effectiveness and coverage of public services, such as healthcare and education. Increased Transparency and Accountability: Open data exposes and prevents mismanagement and corruption, fostering trust in government institutions. Open data exposes and prevents mismanagement and corruption, fostering trust in government institutions. Enhanced Citizen Participation: By making data available, citizens can engage more actively in governance processes and policy-making. Dubai's Data Change Management Framework supports the transition to a culture of open and shared data within government entities, ensuring the sustainability of these initiatives. Dubai Land Department and Dubai Chambers Collaboration: Enhancing Rental Market Transparency In September 2022, the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and Dubai Chambers signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance transparency in Dubai's rental market and create a more attractive investment environment. The MoU aims to: Establish Confidence in the Real Estate Sector: By providing a distinguished investment environment and governance of the rental system. By providing a distinguished investment environment and governance of the rental system. Ensure Data Transparency: Enhancing the transparency of the property sector to attract investors and improve customer satisfaction. Enhancing the transparency of the property sector to attract investors and improve customer satisfaction. Facilitate Business Operations: Allowing business councils and groups under Dubai Chambers to own and rent real estate and offices, providing an ideal work environment for the business community. This collaboration aligns with Dubai's strategic objectives to boost confidence in the real estate sector, a key pillar of the emirate's economy. Corporate Governance Reforms: The Role of Hawkamah Hawkamah, the Institute for Corporate Governance, was established in 2006 by the Dubai International Financial Centre in cooperation with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and other international bodies. Hawkamah's mission is to assist the public and private sectors in the Middle East and Africa in adopting good governance standards. Its objectives include: Promoting Sound Corporate Governance: Providing guidance and assistance to organizations in implementing effective governance practices. Providing guidance and assistance to organizations in implementing effective governance practices. Enhancing Transparency and Accountability: Encouraging the adoption of policies and practices that foster transparency in corporate operations. Encouraging the adoption of policies and practices that foster transparency in corporate operations. Supporting Regulatory Frameworks: Working with policymakers to develop and improve corporate governance codes and regulations. Citizen Engagement and Community Programs Dubai's approach to fostering trust in governance is exemplified through its emphasis on citizen engagement and community programs. By integrating advanced technology with proactive community initiatives, Dubai Police has established a model that enhances public trust and participation. Smart Police Stations (SPS): Revolutionizing Public Access to Services Dubai's Smart Police Stations (SPS) are a testament to the city's commitment to innovation and accessibility. Operating 24/7, these fully automated stations offer over 27 services without human intervention, ranging from reporting crimes to obtaining certificates. Services are available in multiple languages, including Arabic, English, French, Spanish, Russian, German, and Chinese, ensuring inclusivity for Dubai's diverse population. With 22 SPS locations strategically placed across the city, residents and visitors can access police services conveniently, reducing the need for physical visits to traditional police stations. This initiative not only streamlines processes but also enhances transparency and trust in law enforcement. Community Policing Initiatives: Strengthening Neighborhood Relations The "Policeman in Your Neighborhood" program is a cornerstone of Dubai's community policing strategy. Launched to foster direct communication between police officers and residents, the initiative assigns officers to specific neighborhoods, allowing them to address local concerns effectively. This proactive approach has led to a 15% reduction in criminal reports across participating communities. By building strong relationships between law enforcement and the community, the program enhances mutual trust and cooperation, contributing to a safer and more cohesive society. Volunteer and Youth Engagement Platforms: Empowering Citizens Dubai Police's Volunteering Platform offers citizens opportunities to contribute to public safety and community development. Over the past five years, volunteers have dedicated more than 1.25 million hours to various initiatives, including event support, translation services, and public awareness campaigns. The "Positive Spirit" initiative further exemplifies Dubai's commitment to community engagement. By organizing cultural, sports, and educational events, the program promotes social cohesion and well-being. In 2021 alone, it conducted 26 community programs, 15 seminars, and 30 sporting activities, engaging over 41,796 participants and achieving a 96% satisfaction rate. Through these innovative programs, Dubai demonstrates how integrating technology with community engagement can build and maintain public trust in governance. By prioritizing accessibility, transparency, and citizen participation, the city sets a benchmark for effective and inclusive governance. Institutional Reforms and Leadership Initiatives Dubai's commitment to enhancing governance and building public trust is exemplified through two significant initiatives: the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) and the World Government Summit (WGS). Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI): A Pillar of Humanitarian and Developmental Efforts Established in 2015 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, MBRGI consolidates over 30 humanitarian, developmental, and philanthropic entities under one umbrella. The foundation operates across five key pillars: Humanitarian Aid and Relief: Providing immediate assistance during crises. Healthcare and Disease Control: Implementing programs to combat diseases and improve healthcare access. Spreading Education and Knowledge: Enhancing educational opportunities and knowledge dissemination. Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Fostering innovation and supporting entrepreneurial ventures. Empowering Communities: Strengthening communities through various empowerment initiatives. In 2024, MBRGI's initiatives impacted 149 million people across 118 countries, with a total expenditure of AED 2.2 billion. The foundation's workforce comprises 975 employees and is supported by over 170,000 volunteers. Notable programs under MBRGI include the "Mothers' Endowment" campaign, which established an AED 1 billion fund to support education for millions worldwide. Additionally, the Arab Reading Challenge in 2024 saw participation from over 28 million students across 50 countries. World Government Summit (WGS): A Global Platform for Governance Innovation Initiated in 2013, the World Government Summit is an annual event held in Dubai that brings together leaders from government, business, and civil society to discuss and shape the future of governance. The 2025 edition of the summit, themed "Shaping Future Governments," focuses on six main areas: Effective Governance and Accountability: Enhancing transparency and trust in governmental institutions. Financing the Future and the Global Economy: Exploring Sustainable Economic Models. Climate, Crisis Mitigation, and Resilient Cities: Addressing environmental challenges and urban resilience. Human-Centric Futures: Prioritizing citizen well-being in policy-making. Artificial Intelligence and the Next Frontiers: Integrating AI into governance for improved services. Government Acceleration and Transformation: Adapting governmental structures for rapid change. The summit serves as a knowledge exchange platform, promoting collaboration and innovation in governance to build trust and improve public services globally. Through initiatives like MBRGI and platforms such as the WGS, Dubai demonstrates a proactive approach to governance, emphasizing transparency, innovation, and citizen engagement to build and maintain public trust. Dubai's pursuit of technological advancement and inclusive governance has positioned it as a global leader in innovation. However, this rapid transformation brings forth challenges that necessitate careful consideration to maintain and deepen public trust. Balancing Innovation with Privacy As Dubai embraces digital transformation, ensuring data privacy has become paramount. The enactment of Federal Law No. 45 of 2021, known as the UAE Data Protection Law, underscores the nation's commitment to safeguarding personal data. This law aligns with international standards, aiming to protect individual rights amid the proliferation of digital services. Despite these measures, challenges persist. A survey indicated that 81% of organizations in the Gulf region identify data security as the most significant hurdle in digital transformation. The increasing sophistication of cyber threats necessitates continuous investment in cybersecurity infrastructure and public awareness campaigns to ensure that technological advancements do not compromise individual privacy. Ensuring Inclusivity Dubai's diverse population, comprising over 200 nationalities, presents both opportunities and challenges in governance. The UAE government has implemented policies to promote inclusivity, such as Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2023, which prohibits discrimination based on race, religion, ethnicity, or disability. These legal frameworks aim to foster a society where all individuals have equal opportunities to participate in governance processes. Moreover, initiatives like the Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework demonstrate a commitment to integrating individuals with diverse needs into the educational system, promoting long-term societal inclusion. However, continuous efforts are required to ensure that these policies translate into tangible outcomes, particularly in sectors where underrepresentation persists. Sustaining Long-term Trust Maintaining public trust necessitates transparent communication and consistent stakeholder engagement. The UAE's high ranking in the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer, where it secured third place globally for public trust in government performance, reflects the effectiveness of its governance strategies. To sustain this trust, Dubai must continue to prioritize accountability and responsiveness in its governance. This includes regular assessments of public policies, incorporation of citizen feedback, and adaptability to emerging challenges. By fostering an environment of openness and continuous improvement, Dubai can ensure that its governance structures remain resilient and trusted by its populace. Trust isn't built overnight. It isn't measured in the scale of skyscrapers or the pace of digital progress. It's found in the quiet confidence of a resident who knows their voice matters, in the unspoken assurance that systems will work when they're needed most. Dubai's story is not just one of innovation, but of intention—an evolving relationship between people and power, between ambition and accountability. The city's governance model reminds us that true leadership lies in creating environments where trust isn't demanded, but earned, layer by layer, through transparency, participation, and consistency. In a world where skepticism often overshadows belief, perhaps Dubai's boldest move isn't in its technology or its architecture, but in its choice to make trust a foundation—rather than an afterthought—of governance. The question, then, isn't whether trust can be engineered. It's whether more cities are willing to try. Also read: Government News & Press Releases Track the latest government news and press releases from the only trusted platform in Dubai. Dubai Approves New Policies to Boost Healthcare, Education, Family Welfare and Smart Infrastructure Dubai has rolled out a wide-ranging set of new policies aimed at raising the quality of life for residents, in line with the city's long-term social and economic development agendas. Dubai Land Department Wins National Recognition for Anti-Fraud Excellence The Dubai Land Department (DLD) has been honored under the 'Best Practices – Anti-Fraud Category' by the UAE Internal Auditors Association, marking a major milestone in its efforts to promote transparency and integrity across the real estate sector. DEWA Boosts Smart Grid Resilience with Advanced Distribution Network Centre Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has strengthened the backbone of its smart grid by leveraging its Distribution Network Smart Centre (DNSC), which enhances real-time monitoring, data analytics, and automated decision-making across Dubai's power distribution network.
Express Tribune
13-05-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Dubai ranks among top 5 smart cities in IMD Index 2025
Listen to article Dubai has been ranked fourth globally in the IMD Smart City Index 2025, marking a significant leap from its previous position and reinforcing its status as a regional and global leader in digital innovation and smart governance. The ranking, released by the IMD World Competitiveness Center, assesses cities based on how digital technologies improve residents' quality of life. The survey-based index evaluates cities across key pillars, including health, mobility, governance, and activities. Dubai recorded strong resident satisfaction scores in several key areas, including 86.5% for internet speed, 85.4% for online ID services, 84.5% for medical appointment bookings, and 83.4% for access to green spaces. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Roads and Transport Authority, said the result reflects 'collective efforts' by public and private stakeholders, adding that Dubai outperformed Zurich, Oslo, and Geneva in smart mobility indicators such as vehicle-sharing, bicycle rentals, and smart parking. Dubai Police chief Lt Gen Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri called the ranking a milestone that reflects the city's progress in artificial intelligence and sustainable digital security. Officials from Digital Dubai, Dubai Culture, and the Community Development Authority also attributed the achievement to collaborative innovation and the emirate's people-first digital strategy. This progress aligns with the Dubai Digital Strategy and AI Strategy 2030, both of which aim to digitise citywide services and promote autonomous, tech-enabled urban living.
Business Recorder
13-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Dubai named world's fourth smartest city
Dubai was named the fourth smartest city, by the IMD Smart City Index 2025, moving up 8 spots from last year. Zurich came in first place followed by Oslo and Geneva. Dubai scored well in several categories, cementing its position as a digital-first, future-forward city. Abu Dhabi came in fifth place followed by London, Copenhagen, Canberra, Singapore and Lausanne. The IMD Smart City Index, issued by the IMD World Competitiveness Centre, is a globally recognised analytical tool that assesses how effectively cities leverage digital technologies to enhance residents' quality of life. In the 2025 report, Dubai recorded progress in 16 out of 20 technology indicators and achieved advancement across all four pillars of technology governance, underscoring its commitment to smart city excellence. Asia Rising: Dubai's transformation to becoming tech hub draws parallel with Silicon Valley and Bengalaru The new cities added this year were: AlUla in Saudi Arabia, Astana in Kazakhstan, Caracas in Venezuela, Kuwait City in Kuwait, Manama in Bahrain, and San Juan in Puerto Rico – bringing this year's total to 146. Findings: A few of the metrics are listed below 86.5% of Dubai residents were satisfied with the city's current internet speed and reliability, 78.3% of residents find that free public wifi has improved access to city services 85.4% of residents thought processing identification documents online has reduced waiting times 8.3% responded that online ticketing has made attending shows and events easier 86.8% respondents thought that information on local government decisions are easily accessible 89.3% residents found that CCTV cameras has made residents feel safer Dubai was recently also named among top 5 fintech destinations globally. According to Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism's (DET) FDI Monitor, venture-capital-backed FDI surged by 39% in 2024, a strong indicator of international investor confidence and Dubai's maturing innovation infrastructure. Of these investments, 54% of all announced FDI projects incorporated High to Medium technology components. Dubai is making major investments in technology and AI, aiming to lead innovation and is building capacity to support the ecosystem, so much so that government services are fully embracing and incorporating it.
Gulf Insider
13-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Dubai Named World's 4th Smartest City
Dubai has advanced eight places to rank fourth globally in the IMD Smart City Index 2025, marking a major milestone in its digital transformation journey. The achievement reinforces Dubai's position as the highest-ranked city in the GCC, the Arab world and Asia, and highlights its status as a global leader in smart city development and future-ready urban innovation. Dubai recorded strong performance across key indicators in the IMD Smart City Index 2025. These include: A satisfaction score of 84.5 out of 100 for booking medical appointments online 86.5 per cent confidence in internet speed meeting communication needs 85.4 per cent satisfaction with the online processing of identification documents 82.8 for the quality of health services 83.4 per cent satisfaction with access to green spaces 84.3 per cent for recycling services 86.5 per cent for cultural activities In the 2025 report, Dubai recorded progress in 16 out of 20 technology indicators and achieved advancement across all four pillars of technology governance, underscoring its commitment to continuous innovation and smart city excellence. The IMD Smart City Index, issued by the IMD World Competitiveness Centre, is a globally recognised analytical tool that assesses how effectively cities leverage digital technologies to enhance residents' quality of life. Now in its sixth year, the Index evaluates cities across critical pillars including health, mobility, activities, governance, and opportunities. The results are drawn from a direct survey of residents and citizens who express their perception of the city. Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), said: 'Dubai's fourth-place ranking in the 2025 Smart City Index, issued by the Institute for Management Development (IMD), is a testament to the collective efforts of government entities and private sector partners in transforming Dubai into the world's smartest city. 'This milestone reflects Dubai's strategic commitment to harnessing cutting-edge technologies to deliver high-quality services, elevate the quality of life, and enhance the well-being and happiness of its residents. 'RTA supports the government's smart transformation efforts and has contributed effectively to securing this prestigious global ranking for Dubai in the Smart City Index, outperforming the transport sectors of the top three cities: Zurich, Oslo, and Geneva. 'This success was driven by excellence across three core mobility pillars: vehicle-sharing applications, with a utilisation rate of 67.9 per cent, exceeding the top three by 24.4 per cent; smart parking search applications at 73.8 per cent, surpassing them by 29.8 per cent; and bicycle rental applications, with a usage rate of 70 per cent, outperforming them by 17.3 per cent.' Al Tayer noted that the RTA has been instrumental in reinforcing Dubai's position in the Smart City Index by advancing digital infrastructure and delivering smart services that address the evolving needs of residents and visitors. The integration of artificial intelligence and big data into traffic management has improved traffic flow and reduced congestion by up to 25 per cent, he said. He said: 'RTA is implementing a comprehensive digital transformation roadmap aligned with the Fourth Industrial Revolution and is actively progressing the Dubai Smart Self-Driving Transport Strategy, which aims to convert 25 per cent of all mobility trips in the city into autonomous journeys by 2030. 'In addition, RTA's Digital Strategy 2023–2030 features 82 projects and initiatives with a total investment of AED1.6bn ($436mm). 'The strategy aims to consolidate RTA's global leadership in digital transformation through optimal data utilisation, a fully scalable and adaptive digital infrastructure, complete enablement of fintech-driven mobility, 95 per cent digital adoption of services, 100 per cent digital empowerment of employees, and the development of 50 artificial intelligence use cases'. Al Tayer said that the RTA has also recently adopted its Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2030, aimed at reinforcing its global leadership in AI-driven mobility. The strategy focuses on building an integrated, interconnected ecosystem that enhances the quality of life in Dubai. The strategy, he said, comprises 81 projects and initiatives across key pillars: customer happiness, seamless and innovative mobility, intelligent traffic management, smart licensing, future readiness, and asset excellence. It also plays a pivotal role in further cementing Dubai's position as a leading global smart city. Zurich Oslo Geneva Dubai Abu Dhabi London Copenhagen Canberra Singapore Lausanne Lieutenant General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police, said: 'Dubai's rise to fourth place globally in the IMD Smart City Index 2025, and its top ranking across the GCC, the Arab world and Asia, represents a major milestone. 'This accomplishment reflects the emirate's rapid strides in adopting global best practices in artificial intelligence, smart technologies and advanced digital infrastructure. 'It also reaffirms Dubai's leadership in digital transformation and sustainable security. Such progress is the outcome of close collaboration among government entities, working in line with the vision of Dubai's leadership. 'This international recognition strengthens confidence in Dubai's digital framework and reinforces our commitment at Dubai Police to continue developing proactive, innovative security solutions that improve quality of life, preserve safety gains, and deliver high-quality public services. 'We will keep collaborating with our strategic partners to further establish Dubai as a global benchmark for smart and digital cities, in line with the leadership's vision of making Dubai a smart, secure, and sustainable city.' Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director-General of the Community Development Authority in Dubai, said the achievement reflects the leadership's commitment to placing quality of life at the heart of all development efforts. She noted that the Authority continues to leverage advanced technologies to empower individuals and ensure inclusive access to services and opportunities for all members of society. She added that the city's rise in the IMD Smart City Index reflects a holistic approach to digital transformation, one that places quality of life at its core. This approach aligns with Dubai's social agenda, which prioritises individual well-being and views measurable improvements in daily life as the true benchmark of progress. Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Director-General of Digital Dubai, said: 'The IMD Smart City Index is not just a ranking, it reflects how residents perceive the real impact of digital technologies in their everyday lives. 'This achievement is the outcome of a city-wide commitment to excellence, agility, and innovation. The progress stems from the unwavering collaboration between public and private sectors — and above all, the tireless work of our teams in fulfilling the vision of our leadership. 'I extend my appreciation to all those who contributed to this achievement and urge them to continue pursuing excellence. As we rise higher, the competition intensifies, but I remain confident in our national talent and capabilities to not only maintain this position, but to advance even further. 'At Digital Dubai, in close collaboration with government entities, we remain committed to driving innovation and leadership, simplifying life for individuals and businesses, and reinforcing the digital economy through the adoption of advanced smart technologies. 'Guided by the vision of our leadership, we continue working to realise the future of Dubai, a city that stands as a global beacon of hope, happiness and opportunity.' Hala Badri, Director-General of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), said that Dubai has become a global benchmark for smart cities and the digital economy, a transformation driven by the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. She said: 'Dubai's digital infrastructure supports our sustainable development goals and has improved our ranking in the IMD Smart City Index. We aim to create the world's most efficient, integrated, and secure city, reinforcing the emirate's appeal as a place to live, work, and thrive. 'At Dubai Culture, we adhere to government technology standards across all our initiatives and apply advanced solutions to enhance the services we offer artists, creatives and cultural professionals. Through exhibitions, workshops, and events under the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy, we empower entrepreneurs, foster a spirit of innovation, and inspire talent to channel their ideas in service of the community—an essential pillar of our mission to make culture accessible to all.' This achievement marks a key milestone in the implementation of the Dubai Digital Strategy, which aims to digitise all aspects of life in the emirate and reinforce its position among the world's top three cities for living and economic opportunity. The strategy is driven by advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence and Fourth Industrial Revolution tools, with a strong focus on customer-centricity that places people at the core of digital transformation. The IMD Smart City Index is based on comprehensive resident surveys, reflecting how people experience services and how effectively digital solutions enhance their daily lives. This resident-first approach is closely aligned with the city's vision of becoming the best city in the world to live and work in, where technology serves as a bridge to well-being, opportunity, and sustainable growth for all. Also read: Dubai to Allow Crypto Payments for Government Services
Time Out Dubai
13-05-2025
- Business
- Time Out Dubai
Dubai ranked one of the smartest cities in the world
Dubai has been ranked as the fourth smartest city in the world in 2025. According to new data published from the IMD Smart City Index 2025, Dubai came in at fourth out of an impressive 146 cities. Beating cities including London, Singapore and Copenhagen, the city was able to climb eight places since the 2024 index. If you like this: Dubai announces golden visas for nurses Looking at a number of factors, the data showed positive survey results over questions concerning the availability of online information, traffic congestion, face recognition technologies and non-cash payments. Other areas were also studies, including health and safety, public transport, green spaces and even employment opportunities. Dubai came in at fourth place (Credit: Supplied) In 2020, Dubai was ranked in 19th place, moving to 17th by 2023, and in just two years has now jumped to fourth in 2025. Dubai was even given a higher rating than Abu Dhabi, which came in at fifth place. The gold medal was given to Zurich in Switzerland, while Oslo was ranked second smartest city, followed by Geneva in third. The report is designed to show what makes a city most liveable in 2025 and also aimed to evaluate how cities are addressing issues of affordable housing. Out of the top four cities, Dubai ranked first on a selection of questions, including the selection of cultural activities available, the number of green spaces and how easy it is to access information on local government decisions. You can find the top 20 locations in the Smart City Index 2025 here: Zurich, Switzerland Oslo, Norway Geneva, Switzerland Dubai, UAE Abu Dhabi, UAE London, UK Copenhagen, Denmark Canberra, Australia Singapore, Singpore Lausanne, Switzerland Helsinki, Finland Prague, Czech Republic Seoul, South Korea Beijing, China Shanghai, China Ljubljana, Slovenia Amsterdam, Netherlands Stockholm, Sweden Hong Kong, China Hamburg, Germany In other Dubai news Dubai Mall announces car park closure: The important update you need to know It's part of the mall's ongoing expansion plans 36 major traffic improvement projects coming soon to Dubai And some sooner than you think Dubai announces golden visas for nurses Health heroes have unlocked the long-term residency
