Dubai ranks first regionally and sixth globally in the 2026 Smart City Index
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Dubai ranked first in the region and sixth globally in the 2026 Smart City Index published by the International Institute for Management Development, in a ranking that assessed 148 cities worldwide. Abu Dhabi placed tenth, underscoring the UAE’s strong position in digital transformation and urban service delivery.
The result matters because the IMD index is not limited to visible technology or infrastructure. It relies heavily on residents’ perceptions and measures whether digital tools, governance and public services are actually improving everyday life in the city.
According to the published results, Zurich ranked first globally, followed by Oslo, Geneva, London and Copenhagen, while Dubai secured its place among the world’s leading smart cities. The UAE model was highlighted for combining government led digital investment with high quality services and strong public trust.
For Dubai, the ranking carries significance beyond prestige. Smart city standings increasingly shape how cities present themselves to investors, businesses and global talent. This year’s IMD findings also reinforce a broader message: technology alone is not enough unless residents feel its benefits in daily life.
