Abu Dhabi Named One of the Top 5 Smartest Cities in the World

According to the International Institute for Management Development (IMD), Abu Dhabi’s impressive performance reflects widespread public satisfaction with the city’s services. More than 80% of residents rated the public transport system positively, and traffic congestion was not considered a major issue for most respondents.

In 2024 alone, over 90 million trips were made on Abu Dhabi’s city buses, while the water transport system served more than 168,000 passengers. The government allocated AED 3.4 billion towards developing transport infrastructure last year.

Urban greenery and public spaces also played a key role in the city’s rise through the ranks. Approximately 84% of residents expressed satisfaction with parks and green zones, with over 200 new public spaces opened in the past year.

The availability of free public Wi-Fi further contributed to the city’s ranking. The Hala Wi-Fi service, available on buses, beaches and in parks, was cited by nearly 75% of residents as an essential part of Abu Dhabi’s digital ecosystem.

Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, highlighted that the city’s success is the result of a long-term, integrated approach to urban development. Since 2020, Abu Dhabi has risen steadily in the index – from 14th place to 5th – positioning itself as a global leader in sustainable, tech-driven urban living.