Future of Smart Cities in the Knowledge-Based Urban Development and the Role of Award Competitions

Abstract

This study investigates the role of King Abdullah II award for excellence in government performance and transparency in the making of a successful smart city. In order to achieve a better view to support smart city initiatives process and validate the research, the study conducted several interviews with all mangers of Amman municipality directorate to collect the primary data of this study. Further, a qualitative research was performed. Having reviewed the existing literature, Researcher determined the role of knowledge based urban development as a new paradigm in managing urban planning and development in order to ensure Amman city is competitive in the global market. The results concluded that greater Amman municipality applied sufficient knowledge, technology, infrastructure, skills and leadership to winning at King Abdullah II award for excellence. In the light of the literature and case findings, the paper provides recommendations for the Amman municipality and to Arab regions that are working hard to develop smart cities and seeking a global recognition.