Al-Ula advances to 85th place globally in the IMD Smart Cities Index
AlUla Governorate has achieved an exceptional accomplishment by topping the list of the most improved cities worldwide, jumping to 85th place in the IMD Smart Cities Index for 2026, up from 112th place in 2025. This remarkable progress reflects the tireless efforts to make AlUla an ideal global destination to live, work and visit, in line with national aspirations and the Kingdom’s ambitious vision.
The fragrance of history meets innovation in Al-Ula Governorate
The magnitude of this achievement cannot be fully grasped without considering the region's rich historical context. AlUla is home to ancient civilizations dating back thousands of years, most notably the Nabataean civilization, and is also home to Hegra, the first Saudi site to be inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The greatest challenge that the Royal Commission for AlUla has successfully overcome since its establishment in 2017 has been how to integrate modern technologies and transform the region into a smart city without compromising its historical identity and unique natural and cultural environment. This harmony between the authenticity of the past and the innovations of the future has made AlUla a global model for sustainable urban development.
Excellence criteria in the IMD Smart Cities Index
bases The IMD Smart Cities Index its annual assessment on key pillars including quality of life, efficiency of public services, technological infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and smart governance. The Royal Commission has placed these pillars at the heart of its strategic priorities and has continuously worked to develop them through effective public-private partnerships. This progress aligns with the goals of comprehensive and sustainable development as outlined in the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which aims to enhance the quality of life for the residents of AlUla.
Local, regional and international impact of sustainable development
This achievement holds immense significance that extends far beyond the province's geographical boundaries. Locally, this transformation will create new job opportunities, improve healthcare and education services, and raise the overall well-being of residents. Regionally, it reinforces Saudi Arabia's position as a leading force in the Middle East in adopting smart city technologies. Internationally, this progress solidifies AlUla's status as a global tourism and cultural destination capable of attracting foreign investment and offering a cutting-edge, technology-driven tourism experience that facilitates visitor movement and accommodation.
Comprehensive development of infrastructure and services
In terms of quality of life, the Authority continues to develop services provided to residents within the framework of the second master plan, “Towards a Prosperous Society.” This includes establishing an integrated educational system that comprises a language institute teaching five languages, a scholarship program that has benefited more than 690 students, training programs that have included more than 800 teachers, and community activities that have engaged approximately 7,400 students.
Smart transportation and real estate investment
In the transportation sector, the Authority completed the expansion of AlUla International Airport, increasing its capacity from 400,000 to 700,000 passengers annually. This was achieved by doubling the number of passport control counters and integrating smart technologies to enhance the passenger experience, in addition to providing smart mobility options within the governorate. Sustainability is also a key pillar of the development plan, with the Authority announcing the lifting of the suspension on land sales and purchases in the central and southern parts of the governorate. This opens the door for citizens and investors to participate in real estate transactions within a regulated and sustainable environment, supported by new power stations and water storage facilities.
