Page 32 - Implementing ITU-T International Standards to Shape Smart Sustainable Cities: The Case of Dubai

Implementing ITU-T International Standards to Shape Smart Sustainable Cities – The Case of Dubai

Box 3 – Central data management to assess Dubai growth and sustainability
(Dubai Statistics Centre, 2016)

Dubai has a centralized process to manage statistical data of the city with the support of Dubai
Statistics Centre which undertakes statistical and specialized activities, carrying out the general
census of population, and the count of houses and other establishments. It also conducts economic
and social statistical surveys and publishes statistical data for the Emirate of Dubai as a whole. Dubai
Statistics Centre has a modern and comprehensive statistical system ensuring that it is the only
official source for the collection, analysis, and publication of all statistical information and data for
Dubai.

The information published is managed and processed under international standards on the
collection, analysis and dissemination of data. This information, systems and statistical databases
meet the requirements of planning and comprehensive development processes which help support
decision-making processes at all levels in Dubai. Dubai Statistics Centre advises and provides
services to the different Dubai entities for the development surveys and statistical analysis of their
particular activities and interests. Most of the information generated is available to all users under
an open and/or shared data platform.

3.4.4. Dimension 4: Equity and social inclusion dimension
Information and communication technology can provide tools that facilitate active citizen
participation. A smart sustainable city needs to be inclusive, and deliver new types of
technologies to vulnerable or marginalized sectors of the population. Barriers to technology
adoption can include technology scepticism or users who may feel intimidated by new
technological tools. This constitutes an important social challenge that requires designing of
strategies aimed at building trust, addressing public fears about technological change, and
fostering adoption of new technologies.

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