Technology – from IoT to big data to artificial intelligence - is poised to transform how residents and citizens engage with their cities. A recent white paper by Consumer Technology Association and UPS estimates that the global smart communities / smart cities market was valued $14.85B in 2015 and expected to reach $34.35B by 2020; meanwhile, IHS predicts there will be at least 88 smart cities worldwide by 2025, and Asia-Pacific will account 32 of them. Saudi Arabia has launched it’s plan for the city of the future: Neom, a smart, connected metropolis powered by robotics and artificial intelligence. As metropolises continue to rise, businesses and public services are becoming increasingly dependent on robust grids and internet infrastructure need for connected, automated and intelligent cities. Smart cities transformation focuses on improving the quality of life for its residents through unified digital identities, seamless transaction, redefined transportation mechanisms, and strong measures to ensure citizen privacy and data security. This panel will host smart city thought-leaders and decision-makers to explore the critical success factors for smart cities and the emerging challenges and opportunities in developing them. 

J.K. Khalil, General Manager - Saudi Arabia & Bahrain, Mastercard
Martin Howell, Independent Consultant on Smart Cities and Mobility

Moderator: Jonathan Nelson, Co-Founder and CEO at Hackers/Founders, Managing Director at Hack Fund V