Blockchain Technology and Smart Cities: A Technological Framework for Innovation and Sustainability in the UAE and Beyond

• DOI: 10.56294/dm2025697
• Publication Date: 2025-02-18T02:09:16Z
• Authors: Saeed Ali Faris A...; Massudi bin Mahmu...; Mazida Binti Ahmad

Introduction: Blockchain technology has emerged as a cornerstone for innovation in the field of information systems, offering secure, decentralized, and transparent solutions to address the complex challenges of smart city development. This paper explores the transformative potential of blockchain in advancing smart cities, focusing on its ability to integrate with Internet of Things (IoT) systems, enable secure data management, and optimize urban services. Key challenges, such as scalability, interoperability, and regulatory frameworks, are analyzed alongside innovative solutions, including second-layer protocols, cross-chain communication, and energy-efficient consensus mechanisms. The study introduces the International Certification Layer (ICL) as a novel framework designed to enhance regulatory oversight while maintaining blockchain’s decentralized integrity. Additionally, Dubai’s Blockchain Strategy serves as a pioneering case study, showcasing how strategic investment in blockchain technology can streamline governance, enhance citizen trust, and support the achievement of sustainability goals. By addressing critical challenges and identifying future research directions, this paper underscores the role of blockchain as a transformative enabler for sustainable and efficient urban ecosystems.