AUDI Participates in 9th Edition of Casablanca Smart City Conference to Enhance Regional Dialogue on Digital Transformation and Participatory Governance

Casablanca, May, 2025

The Arab Urban Development Institute “AUDI” participated in the ninth edition of Casablanca Smart City Conference, reinforcing its regional presence and commitment to driving digital transformation and promoting smart, inclusive governance across Arab cities.

At the panel discussion titled “Towards Participatory and Connected Governance,” Dr. Montaser Hiyari, Director of Capacity Development and Training at AUDI, highlighted key findings from the Institute’s latest Urban Policy Report series, “Municipalities and Digital Transformation in Arab Cities: An Institutional Development Perspective.”

The discussion focused on the rapid changes shaping digital governance in Arab cities, underscoring the critical need for municipal institutions to be prepared and to develop citizen-centered digital platforms. It also highlighted the importance of strategic reforms that foster participatory urban governance.

Dr. Hiyari emphasized that disparities in digital transformation go beyond the gap between highly advanced cities and those in earlier stages; it also exists between local governments and the communities it serves. This reality calls for inclusive digital urban policies that bridge societal and technological divides, ensuring no segment of society is left behind in the path toward sustainable development.

The session featured several high-level speakers from diverse cities and international institutions, including representatives from Casablanca, Rabat, France, India, and Luxembourg. Their participation created a dynamic platform for sharing experiences and exploring innovative digital solutions in urban governance.