Dubai’s Global Rise to 4th Place in IMD Smart City Index 2025

Dubai has taken a giant step forward on the global stage and has been cited as 4th worldwide in the IMD 

Smart City Index 2025. An incredible feat for Dubai that demonstrates how fast Dubai is transforming its digital landscape, and continuing its role as a leader in developing smart cities in the GCC, Arab world, and Asia. 

Dubai scored favorably in several different key indicators:

• 84.5% ease of using the Internet to book medical appointments
• 86.5% confidence in internet speed
• 85.4% ease of using the Internet to process ID online
• 82.8% satisfaction regarding the quality of healthcare
• 83.4% satisfaction regarding access to green spaces
• 84.3 satisfaction regarding recycling services
• 86.5% satisfaction regarding cultural activities

According to Mattar Al Tayer from RTA Dubai, Dubai has made some significant progress, especially in smart transport services:

• 67.9% usage/engagement for vehicle-sharing apps
• 73.8% satisfaction with smart parking apps
• 70% usage of bicycle rental service

Dubai has made great strides in traffic management utilizing AI and huge amounts of data to minimize congestion by 25%. Their Digital Strategy 2023 – 2030 consists of 82 projects and has an investment of AED 1.6 billion. Leaders from Dubai Police, Digital Dubai, and Dubai Culture stated that these accomplishments can be attributed to effective leadership, coordination, collaboration, and citizen-centered digital services.