According to the UN Habitat World Cities Report, cities are accountable for 80% of global GDP and will be home to over 70% of the population by 2050 at the current rate of urban migration. As metropolises continue to rise, businesses and public services are becoming increasingly dependent on the robust grids and internet infrastructure need for connected, automated and intelligent cities. As a result, the global market for smart city solutions and services is expected to grow to $98B in 2026 according to Navigant Research. What does the “City of the Future” look like? The city of the future focuses on improving the quality of life for its residents through unified digital identities, seamless transaction, redefined public spaces and transportation mechanisms, and strong measures to ensure citizen privacy and data security. This panel will host leaders in smart cities to highlight the best practices and lessons learned for building the urban future, their vision of how cities will operate and interact with citizens, as well as share tailored insights on how to turn Beirut into the City of the Future. 

Speakers:
Mr. Jamal Itani, Mayor of Beirut, President of the Comittee of the Lebanese Mayors
Marie Tyl, Head of Data Analytics, Spallian
Mouhamad Rabah, Chief Executive officer, Beirut Digital District
Abe Seksek, Managing Director - Dubai Smart City Accelerator, Startupbootcamp
Moderator: Danish Farhan, Founder and CEO, Xische & Co