The Internet of Things in Dubai: Towards a Fully Connected City?

Dubai is globally known for its technological ambition and visionary spirit. The city of the future is on its way to becoming one of the most intelligent and connected cities in the world. Thanks to the Internet of Things (IoT), the metropolis optimizes its infrastructure, improves the quality of life for its residents, and strengthens its economic attractiveness. As His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and ruler of Dubai, stated: "Our goal is to make Dubai the most technologically advanced and happiest city in the world." The IoT is truly at the heart of this transformation, connecting buildings, transportation, and municipal services to smart networks capable of collecting and analyzing real-time data.

Launched in 2013, the Smart Dubai initiative aims to digitalize all public services and integrate advanced technologies such as AI and IoT. In 2017, Dubai became the first city in the world to adopt an open data policy, allowing businesses and citizens to access information generated by connected infrastructures.

"We use technology not only to improve efficiency but also to create a more humane and sustainable city," explains Dr. Aisha Bin Bishr, former Director General of Smart Dubai. Through intelligent sensors, the authorities monitor traffic, energy consumption, and air quality in real-time to optimize urban management.

The IoT is already an integral part of several key areas in Dubai, including transportation, which is moving towards 100% connected mobility with driverless metros, equipped with IoT sensors that automatically adjust their speed based on traffic flow and reported incidents. The connected taxi and bus network uses AI to optimize routes and avoid traffic jams, while smart parking systems inform drivers about available spots through a mobile app. "Our goal is to have 25% of Dubai’s transportation autonomous by 2030," says Mattar Al Tayer, Director of the Roads and Transport Authority of Dubai (RTA).

To protect the environment, Dubai has implemented pollution sensors that monitor air quality and activate automatic purifiers in certain urban areas. Smart streetlights adjust their intensity based on pedestrian presence, enabling energy savings of up to 40%. Finally, the Dewa Smart Grid program, established by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), allows residents to monitor their consumption in real-time and optimize their bills.

In healthcare, the futuristic Dubai Future Foundation hospital uses connected bracelets to monitor patients' vital signs remotely. Meanwhile, the Dubai Police are testing autonomous cars equipped with 360° cameras and drones to monitor the city in real-time. Finally, the Smart Fire Alarm System, an IoT alert system, sends instant notifications to firefighters in case of a fire outbreak, thus reducing response time. "Technology allows us to anticipate and respond more effectively to incidents, ensuring a safer city," says General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of the Dubai Police.

A model for the cities of the future

Dubai is now positioning itself as a global reference for connected cities. In the long term, the metropolis aims to become fully operated with 100% digital administration and complete automation of urban services. "The future belongs to cities that know how to leverage technology to improve the lives of their citizens," concluded Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai.

Caroline Haïat