Saudi Cities Achieve Major Gains in 2026 IMD Smart City Index

Eight cities in Saudi Arabia, including the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, have achieved remarkable progress in the 2026 IMD Smart City Index.

Riyadh advanced from 27th place last year to 24th in the global ranking. Mecca ranked 50th, Jeddah 55th, Medina 67th, and Al-Khobar 64th.

The most notable improvement was seen in Al-Ula, which jumped from 112th place to 85th, reflecting the city’s rapid development and progress in tourism projects.

For the first time, Saudi cities Hayel and Hafr Al-Batin were included in the index, ranking 33rd and 100th respectively. A total of 148 cities worldwide were assessed in this year’s ranking.

How the Index is Measured

The IMD Smart City Index evaluates cities primarily based on residents’ experiences. It measures how citizens perceive city services, digital infrastructure, and the impact of modern technologies on daily life.

Saudi Arabia is celebrating 2026 as the “Year of Artificial Intelligence,” and these results highlight the country’s ongoing efforts to improve urban services and develop smart, sustainable cities. These initiatives aim to enhance quality of life while strengthening Saudi Arabia’s global competitiveness.