Enhancing Urban Living through Smart Cities in Saudi Arabia: A Thematic Analysis

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to analyze the impact of the smart city initiative on Saudi urban living regarding features creating quality of life, mobility, sustainability effects, and community participation by perceptions and experiences among residents. Method: Twenty-two semi-structured interviews were conducted with a mix of urban planners, residents, and technology experts in the realm of smart cities. Thematic analysis allowed identifying and understanding patterns and insights in the interview data. Findings: Findings revealed that smart cities greatly enhance quality of urban living through adoption of advanced technologies, efficient facilitation of public services, and sustainable practices. Concerns regarding the digital divide and data privacy have surfaced, however, which appears that not all communities have equal access to benefits offered by smart cities. Citizens demand more openness as well as involvement in smart governance. Originality/Implications: This research contributes to literature on the smart city, stressing the necessity for an inclusive and equitable nature of technological diffusion. This study demonstrates the citizen engagement needed to ensure a smart city-by-design approach, with ethical considerations involved in policies for the smart city, providing valuable input for policymakers and urban planners oriented toward an urban environment that is compatible with the attainment of technological progress and social equity.