ABU DHABI 1st MAY 2023 (WAM). For the third year in a row, Abu Dhabi was ranked the smartest city of the Middle East and North Africa region for 2023 according to the IMD Smart City Index, released by the International Institute for Management Development in Switzerland, in collaboration with Singapore University of Technology and Design.
The International Institute for Management Development has published its annual report on smart city developments, which surveyed 120 residents from 118 cities around the world. Abu Dhabi has surpassed many international capitals and is now ranked 13th out of 141 cities in the ranking. The study assessed the current infrastructure and digital service available to residents. It relied on variables related residents’ perceptions and interactions with government efforts.
Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa (DMT), Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, expressed his pride at Abu Dhabi being ranked as the smartest cities in the region.
He stated: “Abu Dhabi’s leadership in this area is a reflection of the leadership’s vision and commitment towards supporting the digital journey and utilizing it to enhance the community’s well-being and its quality of life.” Abu Dhabi, by implementing next-generation technologies, such as artificial Intelligence and Internet of Things, as well as developing smart city initiatives in various economic, service and societal sectors, has established itself as one of the world’s best destinations for living, working and visiting.
Al Shorafa said: “At DMT we work diligently to harness and use technology to enhance the life of citizens and residents of the Emirate Abu Dhabi.” We will work to continue building on the momentum created by our achievements in order to increase Abu Dhabi’s leading position in this field.
Smart cities are a key factor in the development of several sectors within the emirate. These include the smart economy and smart transportation sectors, both of which are based on software with advanced features that help develop many sectors, including supply, delivery and joint support services.
In addition, interactive platforms with the public are created to identify their needs, aspirations, and interact with them in a transparent manner, placing them at centre stage of government work and developing and facilitating the access to services for the citizens.
Smart Cities Index, published by IMD, is a valuable reference for international organizations, decision-makers and institutions in measuring the impact of national strategy on enhancing welfare levels, progress and improving the quality of people’s lives.
