Gulf States are currently leaders in implementing smart solutions in the Middle East. The most active smart city technologies are developing in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. A special place in the region`s urban infrastructure modernization projects is given to smart lighting.

As in other regions of the world, energy-efficient measures undertaken in this sector involve the replacement of obsolete lamps. The last major project to install LED lighting in the UAE is the replacement of 85,307 fixtures, carried out by the Dubai Electricity and Water Supply Authority (DEWA) as part of the modernization of the Jebel Ali Free Economic Zone.

The measures taken resulted in 32.6% energy savings during the first year and an annual reduction of carbon dioxide emissions of 17,000 tons. The completion of a further program including the modernization of 75% of Dubai’s outdoor lighting networks is expected by 2030.