Countries that direct significant resources toward innovation remain at the forefront of technological development. Based on an analysis prepared in 2025, Interesting Engineering has published a list of the world’s smartest cities. The ranking relies on the Global Innovation Index of the World Intellectual Property Organization. The study covers 100 major innovation hubs, which together account for more than 70% of all registered patents and venture capital investments worldwide.

The top three cities are Zurich (Switzerland), Oslo (Norway), and Geneva (Switzerland). Zurich, within the framework of the “Smart City Zürich” strategy launched in 2018, successfully implements digital ecology in the management of transport and energy systems. Oslo, holding the title of “Europe’s Green Capital,” continues to advance modern environmental initiatives. Geneva, rated AAA, maintains its leadership in digital infrastructure development.

Rounding out the top five are two cities from the UAE — Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Dubai rose from 12th to 4th place, actively implementing its AI-driven smart city strategy. Abu Dhabi, through the “Zayed Smart City” project launched in 2024, is carrying out extensive efforts to achieve carbon neutrality.

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