Dubai Ranks 4th Best Smart City Globally in 2025

Dubai has secured 4th place in the 2025 IMD Smart City Index, marking a significant rise in the global ranking and positioning it ahead of cities such as Zurich and Oslo. The annual index, published by the Swiss-based Institute for Management Development (IMD), measures how cities use technology to enhance quality of life and urban efficiency.

The ranking reflects Dubai’s accelerated adoption of smart services across sectors. Digital platforms are now central to everyday life—from healthcare and licensing to civil services—with user satisfaction rates exceeding 84% in online appointment bookings and document processing, according to official data.

In transport, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has rolled out a series of digital upgrades, including real-time parking systems and citywide bike-sharing networks, placing smart mobility at the core of the city's infrastructure. These innovations contribute to reduced congestion and improved user experience, supporting Dubai’s broader goals of urban efficiency.

Dubai’s smart city agenda also prioritises environmental sustainability. Initiatives like The Sustainable City offer operational models for low-emission communities, integrating renewable energy, waste reduction systems, and green architecture. These projects serve as benchmarks for net-zero development across the region.

Looking ahead, Dubai will host the Smart City Expo in November 2025, bringing together policymakers, technologists, and urban designers to explore the future of connected cities. The event aims to foster global dialogue on data-driven planning, inclusive design, and innovation-led governance.