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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 Abu Dhabi
25-04-2025
- Business
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi ranked as the fifth smartest city in the world – and here's why
Abu Dhabi is officially one of the smartest cities on the planet. The capital has soared to fifth place in the 2025 IMD Smart City Index, climbing five spots from last year. From slick transport systems to park sensors and free Wi-Fi pretty much everywhere, it's no wonder residents are giving the capital top marks. The ranking, which surveys locals in 146 cities worldwide, shows just how far Abu Dhabi has come in five years – jumping from 14th place in 2020 to its current top 5 status. In a new global achievement, Abu Dhabi ranks among the top five smart cities worldwide in the IMD Smart City Index 2025, reflecting its leadership in urban development and smart governance, and its vision toward future-ready cities.#AbuDhabi #YearOfCommunity #SmartCityIndex — دائرة البلديات والنقل (@AbuDhabiDMT) April 23, 2025 According to His Excellency Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), this rise is no fluke. He credits Abu Dhabi's smart transformation to a united government approach and a focus on making the city an even better place to live, work and explore. So, what makes Abu Dhabi so smart? For starters, it's traffic. Or lack thereof. More than half of residents said congestion isn't much of an issue and over 82 percent gave a thumbs up to public transport – with more than 90 million bus rides and 168,000 water transport trips taken last year alone. Not to mention the game-changing double-bridge project on Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street, which slashed peak-hour delays by up to 80 percent. We love to see it. Then there are the green spaces. In 2024 alone, DMT opened more than 200 parks and beaches and 84 percent of residents say they're happy with the access and upkeep. It's not just about numbers though – seven of those parks have gone full-on futuristic with smart sensors tracking everything from air quality to soil humidity. That's sustainability with a side of techy cool. There's also free public Wi-Fi all over the city – on buses, beaches and in parks thanks to Hala Wi-Fi – making it easier than ever to stay connected. Around 75 percent of survey respondents said it helped improve access to services, which played a big role in boosting the city's ranking. Add to that initiatives like Abu Dhabi Canvas – an urban beautification project using local creative talent to celebrate Emirati heritage – and the city's commitment to inclusive, forward-thinking development becomes crystal clear. With the new regional office for the World Smart Sustainable Cities Organisation (WeGO) now based in Abu Dhabi, the capital isn't just setting standards locally – it's positioning itself as a regional hub for smart city innovation, knowledge-sharing and sustainable urban growth. Fifth place never looked so good. More in Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi has been named one of the most walkable cities in the world Time to get those steps in Everything happening in Abu Dhabi in 2025 From new openings to big events, this is shaping up to be quite a year It's official: Abu Dhabi Comedy Season is returning for a second edition with some huge names Wow, look at this line-up The 2025 concert line-up in Abu Dhabi just keeps getting better and better So many big names coming to the capital
TECHx
23-04-2025
- Business
- TECHx
Abu Dhabi Rises to 5th Spot in 2025 Global Smart City Ranking
Abu Dhabi has climbed to fifth place in the 2025 IMD Smart City Index, moving up from tenth last year. The city's strong performance is credited to its green spaces, reliable public transport, free public Wi-Fi, and smooth traffic flow. It now ranks ahead of several major global capitals. HE Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), said the ranking highlights the success of Abu Dhabi's long-term smart city vision. Over the past five years, the capital has advanced from 14th to 5th place. He noted this reflects the whole-of-government approach and the city's focus on using technology and AI to benefit the community. The IMD survey ranks 146 cities based on residents' perceptions of their city's technology and infrastructure. In Abu Dhabi, over half of those surveyed said traffic congestion was not a common issue. Moreover, 82% were satisfied with public transport. Last year, there were more than 90 million rides on public buses. Over 168,000 passengers also used the water transport system. In 2024, DMT invested AED 3.4 billion in road and mobility projects. One such project, a new double bridge on Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street, reduced peak-hour delays by up to 80%. These improvements played a major role in the city's ranking. Green areas also contributed. About 84% of residents were happy with the availability and upkeep of parks. In 2024 alone, Abu Dhabi opened over 200 new parks and beaches. Some parks were upgraded with up to 1,400 sensors to monitor soil, air, and energy use. This 'smart parks' initiative improves sustainability and visitor experience. Free public Wi-Fi also stood out. Nearly 75% of residents mentioned it as a key benefit. Abu Dhabi offers Wi-Fi on buses, at beaches, and in parks through its Hala Wi-Fi network. To beautify public areas, the DMT launched the Abu Dhabi Canvas initiative. It uses UAE-based talent to reflect the country's culture and heritage in public spaces. Looking ahead, Abu Dhabi plans to continue expanding its smart city initiatives. The capital now hosts the MENA regional office of the World Smart Sustainable Cities Organization (WeGO), making it a key center for innovation and smart city development in the region. Abu Dhabi's rise in the Smart City Index shows its ongoing progress in building a connected, efficient, and sustainable urban future.
Arabian Business
23-04-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Abu Dhabi climbs smart city ranking as free Wi-Fi, green spaces and traffic impress
Abu Dhabi's green spaces, free public Wi-Fi, public transportation and effective traffic management propelled it from tenth to fifth place in the 2025 IMD Smart City Index, surpassing several major world capitals. Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of DMT, said: 'Over the past five years, Abu Dhabi has steadily climbed the world's smart city rankings, moving from 14th place in 2020 to fifth place this year. This is a major achievement for the whole of Abu Dhabi and further cements our position as one of best places in the world to live, work, and visit. 'This international recognition provides further evidence of the success of the whole-of-government approach as our Capital continues to expand. Abu Dhabi smart city ranking 'Our ambition for 2025, the Year of Community, is to continue to use technology and AI to further empower our people and our businesses.' The IMD survey ranks 146 cities based on residents' perceptions of their city's structures and technology. More than half of those questioned stated that traffic congestion was not a prevalent issue in Abu Dhabi, with a further 82 per cent expressing their satisfaction with the public transport network. This is reflected in the over 90 million rides on public buses recorded last year, along with the more than 168,000 passengers making use of Abu Dhabi's water transportation network. In 2024, DMT invested AED3.4bn ($926m) in crucial mobility and road network projects, including a double-bridge project that reduced average morning peak-hour delays by up to 80 per cent on Abu Dhabi's Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street. Green spaces and public parks were highlighted in contributing to Abu Dhabi's Smart City Index score, with about 84 per cent of those surveyed expressing satisfaction at their availability and upkeep, which coincided with the Department announcing it has opened over 200 parks and beaches in 2024 alone. In line with its commitment to innovation and community welfare, the Department has upgraded seven parks with interconnected sensors as part of a wider 'smart parks' initiative. The facilities have up to 1,400 sensors that measure different variables, such as soil humidity, electricity consumption and air quality to improve visitor experience, sustainability standards and park management operations. To further improve public spaces, DMT launched the Abu Dhabi Canvas initiative last year to enhance the aesthetic of public areas while celebrating the country's rich culture and heritage, using UAE-based talent. Moreover, Abu Dhabi's connectivity and accessibility contributed significantly to its top-five ranking. According to the global index, nearly 75 per cent of respondents cited free public Wi-Fi, which the DMT provides on buses, at beaches, and in public parks through Hala Wi-Fi, as a key factor in improving access to public services. The Department remains committed to further enhancing Abu Dhabi's smart city status, with the capital being now being home to the World Smart Sustainable Cities Organisation's (WeGO) MENA regional office, positioning the Emirate as a hub for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and capacity-building to empower cities across the region in leveraging cutting-edge technologies for sustainable urban development.
Zawya
23-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Green spaces, public transport bolster Abu Dhabi's 2025 IMD Smart City Index ranking
Abu Dhabi's abundant green spaces, free public Wi-Fi, excellent public transportation and effective traffic management propelled it from tenth to fifth place in the 2025 IMD Smart City Index, surpassing several major world capitals. Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of DMT, said, 'Over the past five years, Abu Dhabi has steadily climbed the world's smart city rankings, moving from 14th place in 2020 to 5th place this year. This is a major achievement for the whole of Abu Dhabi and further cements our position as one of best places in the world to live, work, and visit." He added that this international recognition provides further evidence of the success of the whole-of-government approach as the Capital continues to expand. The IMD survey ranks 146 cities based on residents' perceptions of their city's structures and technology. More than half of those questioned stated that traffic congestion was not a prevalent issue in Abu Dhabi, with a further 82 percent expressing their satisfaction with the public transport network. This is reflected in the over 90 million rides on public buses recorded last year, along with the more than 168,000 passengers using Abu Dhabi's water transportation network. In 2024, DMT invested AED3.4 billion in crucial mobility and road network projects, including a double-bridge project that reduced average morning peak-hour delays by up to 80 percent on Abu Dhabi's Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street. Green spaces and public parks were highlighted in contributing to Abu Dhabi's Smart City Index score, with about 84 percent of those surveyed expressing satisfaction at their availability and upkeep, which coincided with the department announcing it has opened over 200 parks and beaches in 2024 alone. In line with its commitment to innovation and community welfare, the department has upgraded seven parks with interconnected sensors as part of a wider 'smart parks' initiative. The facilities have up to 1,400 sensors that measure different variables, such as soil humidity, electricity consumption and air quality to improve visitor experience, sustainability standards and park management operations. DMT also launched the Abu Dhabi Canvas initiative last year to enhance the aesthetic of public areas while celebrating the country's rich culture and heritage, using UAE-based talent. Moreover, Abu Dhabi's connectivity and accessibility contributed significantly to its top-five ranking. According to the global index, nearly 75 percent of respondents cited free public Wi-Fi, which the DMT provides on buses, at beaches, and in public parks through Hala Wi-Fi, as a key factor in improving access to public services. The department remains committed to further enhancing Abu Dhabi's smart city status, with the capital now being home to the World Smart Sustainable Cities Organisation's (WeGO) MENA regional office. This positions the Emirate as a hub for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and capacity-building to empower cities across the region to leverage cutting-edge technologies for sustainable urban development.
