University of Dubai research creates framework to support smart city initiatives around the world

A research by the University of Dubai has led the creation of a structure, based upon information and communications technology, to support smart city initiatives worldwide.

The research study performed by Mahmoud El Hendy, Lecturer at College of Information Technology, University of Dubai, with contributions from Dr. Sami Miniaoui, Director of UD Centre for Research & Consultancy, University of Dubai, and Dr. Hussein Fakhry, Associate Professor of Zayed University, was held over a period of six months during which the group studied 62 smart cities worldwide.

"The smart city idea is significant for billions of people around the world thinking about that quotes show that more than 50 percent of the world's population lives in urban locations. University of Dubai is dedicated to research study initiatives to produce sustainable solutions on future urban advancements and smart city challenges. The existing research study led by the university will support the strategic efforts in the advancement of smart cities worldwide," said Dr. Eesa M. Bastaki, President of University of Dubai.

The research study looked at the smart city structure in regards to Technology View, Systems View, and Strategic View. The smart city facilities under the Technology View includes infrastructure of all domains, both new and existing. Acting as an entry point for utility and service, this layer realizes connectivity solutions for a smart city, and generally consists of Cloud Computing, RFID Technology, Near Field Communication, Wireless Technology and the likes.

System View comprises Smart City Data Aggregation which deals with the analytics of the system by catching real-time data from various sources utilizing strategies such as Mash-ups, Widgets, and portals. It even more supplies apps to the smart city residents as a means to get the required information.
Scientist El Hendy stated "We aspire to continue with our smart city research in order to add to the UAE Vision 2021." He included that more research study is needed since cities are at the limit of tremendous modifications worldwide.".

Strategic View includes Smart City Governance and Analytics, which is the high-level layer of the structure in which the gathered data is processed and presented to the public in addition to policy makers. This layer likewise assists in the strategic function of assisting policy makers to make helpful amendments in existing policies. Calculation of Return on Investment can likewise be supplied by this layer.

Dubai has launched a strategy to transform itself into a 'Smart City' including 6 vital pillars and 100 initiatives on transportation, communications, infrastructure, electricity, economic services and urban planning. Under the method, 1,000 government services are set to go smart by 2017.