Olly Thomas, Director of Advisory Services, EMEA, Bentley Systems, shares their insights on the priorities and approach of future Smart Cities, and why citizens should be front and centre of their design.
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What’ s a Smart City?’ I once asked a colleague. Her reply? That a Smart City, in many parts of the world, is one where you can turn on a tap 24 / 7 and expect clean water to come out.
Definitions differ. But one thing is certain: That any‘ smart’ city should be focused on making life for its citizens better.
Today, according to the World Bank, over 4 billion people around the world – more than half the global population – live in cities. That’ s up from 15 % six decades ago. This makes city dwelling a focal point for policymakers, economists and planners as well as sustainability professionals.
Nowhere is the idea of the‘ Smart City’ taking hold more than the Middle East which is globally known for its ambitious development projects and futuristic vision.
Mega projects such as the flagship NEOM, JCDC, Qiddiya City and Diriyah Gate, some planned, some underway, are promising to transform what constitutes city living and what our cities look like.
The need for re-thinking our urban spaces is clear. In Dubai, for example, in the first quarter of 2025, the population crossed 3.9 million.
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The challenges around design and delivery for programmes of this size and scale is significant. But what about the challenge of making sure that this infrastructure remains fit for purpose and
Today, according to the World Bank, over 4 billion people around the world – more than half the global population – live in cities.
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