Zurich has once again taken the top spot as the world’s smartest city in 2025, based on the latest IMD Smart City Index from the International Institute for Management Development (IMD). The rankings highlight how improvements in technology, better infrastructure, and effective governance are changing urban life worldwide. While Swiss cities remain in the lead, the Middle East is quickly advancing in the smart city competition. Indian cities, on the other hand, are still having trouble making it into the top 20.
What is a Smart City?
According to IMD, a smart city is “an urban setting that applies technology to enhance the benefits and mitigate the drawbacks of urbanisation for its citizens.” In simpler terms, it’s a city that uses digital innovation, data, and sustainable planning to improve everyday life—be it safer streets, cleaner energy, faster transport, or more transparent governance.
The World’s Top 10 Smart Cities in 2025
1. Zurich, Switzerland – Retains the No.1 spot with world-class transport, sustainable planning, and strong citizen-centric governance.
2. Oslo, Norway – A leader in clean energy and digital innovation, making urban life both green and efficient.
3. Geneva, Switzerland – Climbs to third place, excelling in governance, safety, and advanced city services.
4. Dubai, UAE – Jumps from 12th to 4th, thanks to AI-powered services and futuristic infrastructure.
5. Abu Dhabi, UAE – Rises from 10th to 5th, showcasing rapid growth in smart mobility and digital transformation.
6. London, UK – Remains a hub of smart governance, fintech innovation, and global connectivity.
7. Copenhagen, Denmark – Known for eco-friendly transport, bicycle culture, and smart urban design.
8. Canberra, Australia – Excels in transparency, governance, and digital services for citizens.
9. Singapore – A pioneer in smart mobility, AI-driven governance, and efficient e-services.
10. Lausanne, Switzerland – Strong on healthcare, safety, and sustainable infrastructure, reflecting Switzerland’s dominance.
Big Movers in 2025
- Ljubljana, Slovenia jumped from 32nd to 16th, thanks to strong governance and sustainability efforts.
- Taipei City, Taiwan slipped from 16th to 23rd, losing ground in mobility and activities.
- Dubai & Abu Dhabi made historic gains, placing the Middle East firmly on the smart city map.
Where Do Indian Cities Rank?
Despite progress through India’s Smart Cities Mission, no Indian city has broken into the global top 20. However, several have made incremental improvements.
- Delhi – Rank 104
- Mumbai – Rank 106
- Hyderabad – Rank 109
- Bengaluru – Rank 110
Challenges such as infrastructure gaps, rapid urbanisation, and governance bottlenecks continue to hold India back. Yet, with ongoing investments in digital public infrastructure and urban mobility, experts believe Indian metros could climb higher in the coming years.
The Smart City Index 2025 highlights how Zurich, Oslo, and Geneva continue to set global benchmarks, while Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the fastest risers. For India, the road ahead is long—but with bold reforms and smart technology adoption, its cities could soon join the global leaders.
Until then, Zurich remains the world’s smartest city, and India’s metros remain works in progress.
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