Abu Dhabi named smartest city in MENA region

Abu Dhabi has been ranked as the smartest city in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region for 2023, the third year in a row, according to the IMD Smart City Index released by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD).

The IMD 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.

"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.

The Smart Cities Index issued by IMD is considered an important reference for international organisations, 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.

Abu Dhabi named smartest city in MENA Region and 13th globally#WamNews https://t.co/QNpTAO2jJl pic.twitter.com/MrxW8k8nJw

— WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) May 1, 2023