AlUla Governorate has achieved an exceptional milestone, reflecting the scale of the developmental transformation underway in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It has recorded the highest rate of improvement globally in the 2026 IMD Smart City Index. AlUla has successfully jumped from 112th place in 2025 to 85th place globally this year. This remarkable progress positions it among the most advanced cities and clearly demonstrates the success of the strategic objectives aimed at making AlUla an ideal global destination to live, work, and visit.
Historical context: Integrating rich heritage with modern technology
AlUla Governorate boasts an unparalleled historical and cultural heritage. It is home to Hegra, the first Saudi site to be inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, and is considered the cradle of ancient civilizations such as the Nabataeans and Dadanites. The significance of this achievement lies in the Royal Commission for AlUla's ability to integrate this rich historical legacy with cutting-edge smart technologies without compromising the natural and cultural identity of the area. Transforming a historic city into a "smart city" is a global challenge, and AlUla's success in this endeavor offers an inspiring model for heritage cities worldwide.
Smart Cities Index criteria and development priorities in Al-Ula
The Smart Cities Index measures city performance across key pillars, including quality of life, service efficiency, technology, environmental sustainability, and smart governance. These pillars have become central priorities for the Royal Commission for AlUla. This progress is an extension of the comprehensive and sustainable development goals the Commission has been working towards since its establishment, in line with the aspirations of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to develop infrastructure, improve services, and raise the quality of life for residents.
Comprehensive development: quality of life and environmental sustainability
In terms of quality of life, the Royal Commission for AlUla continues to develop services for the residents of AlUla in the education, health, and public utilities sectors. Sustainability is a fundamental pillar of the comprehensive development plan, and the Commission recently announced the lifting of the suspension on land sales and purchases in the central and southern parts of the governorate. This strategic step opens the door for citizens and investors to actively participate in real estate transactions within a regulated and sustainable urban environment.
An integrated educational system and advanced infrastructure
In the education sector, the Authority established a comprehensive system that includes a language institute teaching five different languages, and a scholarship program that has benefited more than 690 students. Teacher training programs were also launched, with over 800 teachers participating, in addition to community activities that engaged approximately 7,400 students.
In the transportation and infrastructure sector, the Authority completed the expansion of Al-Ula International Airport, increasing its capacity from 400,000 to 700,000 passengers annually. The expansion included doubling the number of passport control counters and integrating smart technologies to enhance the passenger experience, as well as strengthening smart mobility features within the governorate. Efforts are ongoing to establish power plants, water storage facilities, and develop healthcare facilities, all within the framework of the second master plan, “Towards a Prosperous Society.”.
Expected impact: A leading global tourist and cultural destination
This achievement carries significant implications at the local, regional, and international levels. Locally, it ensures a sophisticated urban environment that serves residents and creates new job opportunities. Regionally, it reinforces the Kingdom's position as a leader in digital transformation and smart city development in the Middle East. Internationally, this alignment with the goals of Vision 2030 reflects AlUla's rapid transformation, supporting its development into a leading global tourism and cultural destination, attracting foreign direct investment, and solidifying its place among future smart cities.
