Al-Khobar was listed as a smart city in 2024, ranking 99th out of 142, after the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) announced its inclusion in the list.
This inclusion makes it the fifth Saudi city to join the smart cities alongside Riyadh, Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah.
This is the result of the efforts and progress witnessed by the Kingdom in this vital sector, and a reflection of the achievements attained following the launch of the Saudi Vision 2030 by the wise leadership.
The IMD’s Smart City Index is an important indicator that highlights the readiness of cities, and their use of advanced technologies, to build smart and sustainable communities.
According to the statement, “The index also evaluates the progress of cities in areas such as health and safety, employment and education opportunities, mobility, cultural activities, governance, and achieving a balance between economic, technological, and human life aspects.”
Smart cities employ digital technology for better resource utilization, to reduce carbon emissions, and to make them more interactive and responsive to population needs.
Sharqia Development Authority CEO Eng. Omar Al-Abdullatif expressed pride in this achievement, which is part of the development witnessed by the Kingdom in all fields based on the wise vision of the leadership and the directives of the governor of the Eastern Province.
“Al-Khobar’s making it in the Smart City Index will contribute to attracting global investments, and new companies and projects, thus to economic growth, and to creating new job opportunities,” as per the statement.
