Cities are changing fast. Over the past decade, more people are moving to urban areas. Right now, over half of the world’s population lives in cities, and this is expected to reach 70% by 2050, according to UN-Habitat. This shift brings both challenges and opportunities.
A recent report, the ‘2025 Urban Readiness Report,’ by Expo City Dubai and YouGov, dives into these urban changes. It highlights the struggles cities face in managing climate resilience while providing essential services. Many cities talk about being “smart,” but there’s a big gap between plans and actual practices.
Climate Resilience and Essential Services
City leaders are particularly concerned about climate change. They need to prepare for issues like wildfires, flooding, and rising temperatures. But it’s not just about the environment; there’s also a pressing need for healthcare, affordable housing, and better infrastructure. Rapid urban growth has put a strain on these services. For many leaders, improving basic needs comes before tackling digital advancements or eco-friendly building practices.
Funding is a major obstacle. Approximately 75% of city leaders struggle with tight budgets. They often focus on immediate services rather than long-term improvements. Public-private partnerships are being looked at as a possible solution to accelerate infrastructure development, especially in healthcare.
The Digital Divide
The report also points out a notable digital divide. While some cities are using advanced technologies, most are lagging behind. In wealthier countries like Germany and the US, only 1% of city leaders say they’ve reached a high level of digital transformation. Barriers like fragmented coordination and lack of funds hinder progress.
In contrast, nearly half of the cities in India are starting to use predictive data to manage urban issues, showing a different pace of development. Cities in emerging markets such as the UAE and Malaysia are making strides by integrating systems that connect real-time data with citizen participation.
Focusing on People’s Needs
City leaders are realizing that planning should prioritize people’s well-being. A recent survey found that 71% of respondents are adopting policies that focus on safety, inclusivity, and community engagement. Economic inequality remains a top concern, with many leaders recognizing the need to provide opportunities for young entrepreneurs.
Mental health and social equity are also on the table, reflecting a desire for policies that foster happiness and healthier urban living.
Key Takeaways
As we approach 2025, cities must find a balance between climate resilience and meeting basic needs. Resource allocation is crucial, especially with growing populations leading to traffic issues and strained services.
These findings will drive conversations at the upcoming 2025 Asia Pacific Cities Summit (2025APCS) in Dubai. With over 300 cities represented and 150 mayors attending, the summit will address various topics, from affordable housing to sustainable urban planning. This year’s event has already showcased opportunities totaling over $1.5 billion for urban projects.
As urbanization continues, cities will learn from each other to create better living conditions for everyone.
For more information about the summit, visit the 2025 Asia Pacific Cities Summit and Mayors’ Forum.
