For the third consecutive year, Abu Dhabi has ranked as the smartest city in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region for 2023, according to the IMD Smart City Index released by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Switzerland in collaboration with the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD).
According to H.E. Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) the Emirate’s investment in technology such as AI and IoT has helped it to be the region’s smartest city and secure its ranking 13th globally.
“Abu Dhabi’s leadership in this field is a translation of the leadership’s vision and commitment to supporting the digital transformation journey and utilising it to serve the community and enhance its well-being and quality of life,” he said.
“Through 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, Abu Dhabi has been able to establish itself as a smart and sustainable city, and one of the best global destinations to live, work, and visit.”
The International Institute for Management Development (IMD) has released its annual study on smart city development, surveying 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.
H.E. Al Shorafa added: “At DMT, we are working diligently to harness technology and utilise it to enhance the quality of life for citizens and residents in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. We will continue to work to build on the momentum of achievements to enhance Abu Dhabi’s leadership in this field.”
