Abu Dhabi has been named the smartest city in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region for the year 2023 in the IMD Smart City Index released by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD).
The study, which IMD developed with the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), surveyed 120 residents in 118 cities worldwide.
The report revealed that Abu Dhabi has made an impressive leap to the 13th spot among 141 cities worldwide, leaving several global capitals behind. This is credited to the city’s top-notch infrastructure and digital services available to its residents.
IMD also evaluated various factors related to residents’ perception and interaction with government efforts in five key areas: 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), highlighted the UAE capital’s dominant position in this area reflects the vision and dedication of its leaders to foster digital transformation for the betterment of society and to improve its overall well-being and quality of life.
“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,” he said.
He reiterated that DMT will continue to leverage technology to enhance the quality of life for citizens and residents in Abu Dhabi.
The emergence of smart cities has paved the way for the growth and development of critical sectors in the emirate, including smart transportation and the smart economy.
