The Smart City Index 2025, compiled by the IMD (International Institute for Management Development), ranks cities worldwide based on infrastructure, technology, governance, health and safety, mobility, and citizen-centric services. For the third consecutive time, Zurich has topped the global rankings, followed closely by Oslo and Geneva, solidifying Europe’s strong presence in the top tier. Notably, Dubai surged eight places to reach 4th place globally, making it the highest-ranked city in both the Arab world and Asia. Abu Dhabi also advanced significantly, rising to 5th position from 10th in 2023 and 14th in 2020, showcasing the UAE’s commitment to smart infrastructure and digital governance.

Among the notable newcomers, six Saudi Arabian cities—including Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, Medina, Al-Khobar, and AlUla—entered the index for the first time, reflecting the country’s Vision 2030 strategy to build technology-driven, sustainable urban environments. European cities also demonstrated strong momentum in digital governance and citizen engagement. Warsaw jumped 10 places to rank 28th, Vilnius climbed 13 positions to 34th, and Bucharest made the continent’s largest leap, rising 22 places to 78th. Other strong European performers include Riga and Zagreb, both of which improved through investments in connectivity and transparency.

In Asia, a separate ranking by the International Society for Urban Informatics (ISUI) placed Stockholm first globally, followed by Washington, D.C. and Barcelona. Within Asia, Tokyo ranked highest (global #5), with Hong Kong, Seoul, Beijing, and Singapore rounding out the top five. Singapore secured the 21st global position in this ranking, based on six dimensions: citizen welfare, environmental health, social inclusion, infrastructure, economy, and governance.

In contrast, Indian cities continued to struggle in the IMD Index, with Delhi ranked 104th, Mumbai 106th, Hyderabad 109th, and Bengaluru 110th. These cities, though rapidly urbanizing and adopting digital platforms, still lag in critical areas like governance quality, public mobility systems, and safety. However, government-led Smart City initiatives continue to attempt to close this gap.

Meanwhile, in the United States, a separate ranking focusing on technology and sustainability identified San Francisco as the top smart city, followed by New York, San Jose, Washington D.C., and Austin. Austin was particularly highlighted for its tech job growth, widespread public Wi-Fi, electric vehicle infrastructure, and strong focus on coworking and innovation ecosystems.

In summary, the 2025 Smart City Index reflects a global shift toward citizen-centered governance, green technology, and integrated infrastructure. While European and Middle Eastern cities continue to lead, cities across Asia and the Americas are making significant strategic investments to improve livability, sustainability, and digital inclusion.