Seoul, October 11, 2024 — Fahad Albuliheshi, Mayor of Madinah and Chief Executive of the Region Development Authority, took part in the esteemed "Smart Life Week" in Seoul, South Korea, which was themed "Human-Centric Tech, Connect to a Better Life." This annual event serves as a platform to promote the ideals and values of human-centered smart cities, emphasizing the enhancement of sustainability, efficiency, and quality of life within urban settings.
The Seoul Smart Life Week attracted global attention as leaders and innovators gathered to discuss the future of urban living. During the Global City Mayors Forum, Albuliheshi delivered a compelling speech that highlighted Madinah’s transformative journey towards becoming a smart city focused on human needs. He elaborated on how the city’s initiatives align with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, a strategic framework aimed at diversifying the economy and improving public services.
In his address, Albuliheshi emphasized the importance of addressing urban challenges through the adoption of smart-city indicators, presenting a vision that places citizens at the center of technological advancements. He showcased Madinah's early adoption of innovative, human-centered solutions, which have been pivotal in enhancing the overall urban experience for its residents.
Madinah's participation in this international event underscores its leadership role in the global transition to smart cities. Albuliheshi articulated the city’s commitment to leveraging technology to serve humanity comprehensively. He outlined ongoing efforts to develop smart transformation strategies in urban planning, as well as initiatives that prioritize humanization projects—creating environments that are not only technologically advanced but also nurturing and inclusive.
The event served as an opportunity for Madinah to present itself as a distinctive model for other cities, illustrating how smart city innovations can be effectively integrated into everyday life. Albuliheshi's insights resonated with fellow mayors and city leaders, reinforcing the notion that technology should serve as a tool for enhancing human connectivity and improving the urban experience for all. Through initiatives like Smart Life Week, cities around the world are being encouraged to adopt practices that not only embrace technology but also foster community, sustainability, and a better quality of life.