Smart Cities

Abstract

Focuses on the smart city, which represents a new challenge and a long-term technological initiative. It is an entity that integrates various technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), intelligent transportation systems, and digital infrastructure to efficiently manage the city and address crises such as population growth, security threats, economic globalization, and technological advancement. These factors have made smart cities a primary concern for planners and thinkers aiming to achieve them, both at the civilizational and governmental levels. At its core, the city is built around the human being and the technologies necessary for everyday life. Accordingly, we conducted a study on smart transportation applications, particularly those based on the Internet of Things (IoT), addressing its concept, components, and structures. We then moved on to the field of smart transportation, discussing its essential requirements and how to reduce the problems it currently faces. We also explored digital infrastructure and ways to overcome digital gaps. In our practical application, we examined both global and local experiences—on both international and national levels—by conducting an analytical comparison between the smart city of Singapore and the smart city vision of Algeria. This comparison was carried out across the three previously mentioned areas. In terms of IoT, we found that Singapore has achieved remarkable development despite its small geographical size, while Algeria is striving to adopt smart technologies. Algeria still suffers from digital gaps and weak network infrastructure; however, despite these challenges, it has made notable progress in this field. In the transportation sector, Singapore continues to enhance its self-sufficiency and innovation, while Algeria is working to overcome its challenges and leap toward a sustainable future by developing a smart transportation system to reduce accidents and logistical issues. Regarding digital infrastructure, Algeria is achieving a relatively good level of success when compared to developed countries in the field of smart technologies. The country has put forth strategic plans aimed at adopting this model. Despite the various challenges Algeria has faced in implementing smart applications, it has achieved numerous accomplishments through tailored strategies and by seizing available opportunities. These efforts have helped it make significant progress, as we examined through smart city models. We concluded our study by identifying the core values and guiding principles that Algeria aspires to achieve in building a smart Algeria by the year 2030, in line with its national Smart Strategy 2030. Finally, we proposed recommendations to help support Algeria’s development and to achieve sustainable governance and a resilient economy.