Experts in the fields of urban planning, smart technologies and advanced technology stressed that the expansion of the approach to smart sustainable cities has become necessary and urgent, at a time when the world is suffering from the growing phenomena of climate change.
They indicated that smart cities can address climate challenges, promote socio-economic growth and support urban development. Smart cities adopt sustainable methods and standards, mainly inclusive policies and thoughtful development frameworks. Smart cities adopt the development of digital infrastructure and address cybersecurity risks.
The discussion was part of a symposium on "Sustainable Cities… The New Generation of Smart Cities", organised by Trends Research and Advisory, in partnership with Mustafa Muharram Partners Group for Public Affairs and Strategic Communications. It was moderated by Sultan Majed Al-Ali, Senior Researcher and Director of the Global Barometer Department at TRENDS. The event was held on Wednesday At the media centre of the «COP28».
In his opening remarks, Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of Trends Research and Advisory, emphasised the growing importance of smart and sustainable cities for governments striving for sustainable development and improved citizen well-being. He pointed out that rapid urbanization, coupled with climate change and increasing resource demands, are putting immense strain on city infrastructure and ecosystems.
"We must create cities that are not just sustainable, but also resilient in the face of future challenges," Dr. Al-Ali stressed.
He further elaborated that building smart and sustainable cities goes beyond mere technological advancements. It necessitates a shared vision that integrates information and communication technology with efficient urban operations and services. This vision should also embrace competitiveness and ultimately aim to fulfill the economic, social, environmental, and cultural needs of both present and future generations.
Jan Vapaavuori, President of the Finnish Olympic Committee, former Minister of Economy and Housing of Finland, and former Mayor of Helsinki, spoke about "The New Generation of Smart Sustainable Cities – Helsinki, Finland’s pioneering experience in smart sustainable cities."
He explained that for smart cities to transform into sustainable communities, they need to work on exploring resources. He added that cutting-edge research guides governments towards the right sustainability choices, citing a global research competition that was able to offer a sustainable solution to warm Helsinki city during severe winter, saving the Finnish government tens of millions of dollars.
Sherif El Diwany, Swiss expert in development planning and co-founder and Managing Director of MGM Climate Business Developers, said that resilience is the key feature that all urban leaders seek to achieve in the sustainability of cities in the twenty-first century. Fortunately, technology enables cities to be smart and resilient to ensure a sustainable quality of life for their residents.
He called on governments around the world to accelerate efforts and expand the implementation of smart city plans that must rely on flexibility and digital technology.
Dr. Mohammed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Chairman of the Cybersecurity Council of the UAE Government spoke about the opportunities and challenges facing smart sustainable cities, especially with regard to cybersecurity threats.
He stressed that the UAE’s application of advanced technologies aims mainly to ensure human well-being and the safety of society in the first place from that development.
He explained that the UAE continues to develop technologically, and ensure the achievement of cybersecurity for societies, closing the gaps, through an advanced technological security umbrella.
Dr. Mohammed Al Kuwaiti stated that resilience is the core of overcoming security challenges, as cybersecurity is the guardian of smart city development initiatives. He added that sustainability needs teamwork, developing robust cyber policies, and training future generations to lead sustainable cyber initiatives.
Selim Eddé, Director, Government Affairs Public Policy, Emerging Markets – Google Cloud – Middle East and North Africa, touched on Google Cloud’s experience in protecting data and developing security systems for governments, communities and individuals.
He said that the establishment of safe smart cities is challenged by expansion opportunities, which makes collaborative and complementary partnerships between the public and private sectors imperative to access these opportunities to develop a sustainable approach to smart cities.
He stated that human capital is a pivotal element in achieving sustainability for smart cities, by developing talents and empowering competencies capable of understanding and overcoming challenges quickly and accurately. He referred to the experience of the UAE, which he considered as a "smart country" that was able to achieve cybersecurity, with the government’s continuous development of smart infrastructure and reliance on digitisation of services along with the development of skilled cyber experts.
DR. Hessa Al Jawi, Acting Manager of Registration Permits Section, Health Safety Department at Dubai Municipality, explained that the integration of sustainable practices in Dubai Municipality ensures a balance between urban development and environmental preservation. It promotes a healthier and safer living environment, while leveraging technology to enhance public welfare.
Mustafa Muharram, Chairman of Mustafa Muharram Partners Group for Public Policy and Strategic Communication, stressed that the development of smart cities relies heavily on strong infrastructure and smooth connectivity. However, policymakers should prioritise the expansion of digital infrastructure, including broadband networks and data centres, to facilitate the integration of technology and data-driven solutions.