Abu Dhabi has been ranked as the smartest city in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region for the third consecutive year, according to the IMD Smart City Index. The index, released annually by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Switzerland in collaboration with the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), surveyed 120 residents in 118 cities worldwide. Abu Dhabi surpassed several international capitals to rank 13th globally out of the 141 cities included in the current ranking.
The study evaluated current infrastructure and digital services available to residents, relying on variables related to residents’ perception and interaction with government efforts in five main pillars: health and safety, mobility, activities, opportunities (work and education system), and governance.
Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), expressed his pride in Abu Dhabi’s ranking as the smartest city in the region. He attributed this success to the leadership’s vision and commitment to supporting the digital transformation journey and utilizing it to serve the community and enhance its well-being and quality of life.
Abu Dhabi has established itself as a smart and sustainable city by employing next-generation technologies such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things (IoT) and developing smart city initiatives across various societal, service, and economic sectors, including public and smart transportation. Smart cities contribute to the development of many key sectors in the emirate, such as the smart transportation sector and the smart economy, which is based on advanced software that helps develop many sectors such as supply, delivery, and joint support services.
The Smart Cities Index issued by IMD is considered an important reference for international organizations, decision-makers, and institutions to measure the impact of national strategies in enhancing levels of welfare, achieving progress, and promoting the quality of life for people. The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) will continue to work diligently to harness technology and enhance the quality of life for citizens and residents in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
