People-Centric Governance for Smart Cities Development –Theoretical Analysis and Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP) And Outcomes.

Abstract

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations—Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and Oman—are key players in the global energy landscape, holding 45% of proven oil reserves, 25% of oil exports, and 18% of proven natural gas reserves. These countries are heavily investing in advanced urban planning and megaprojects that emphasize renewable energy, aiming to promote a modern, sustainable vision. However, ambitious initiatives, like Masdar City, have faced challenges in achieving their sustainability goals. In Oman, smart city development is still emerging, hindered by limited industry-level studies, a lack of frameworks, and an insufficient focus on citizen-centric governance, affecting quality of life. Current research tends to prioritize technology and innovation over local cultural values, leaving gaps in a people-centered approach. Furthermore, there is no empirical research examining the impact of citizen involvement on public-private partnerships in smart city projects. This gap underscores the need for a conceptual model to emphasize the role of residents in smart city planning. The proposed research aims to assess the effectiveness of participatory governance in enhancing residents’ quality of life, encouraging innovation, and promoting sustainable, inclusive outcomes.