Director General of Dubai Municipality, H.E. Eng. Hussain Lootah has officially confirmed that the municipality plans to launch a new data-collection satellite that will provide them with critical information on environmental aspects ranging from sustainability, maritime conditions and air quality in the UAE. In addition to this, it has been further disclosed that the satellite is capable of monitoring the UAE from space.

Japanese technology and IT colossus NEC Corporation has announced it will build a 'smart city infrastructure' platform aimed at integrating a range of data sources in the Portuguese capital of Lisbon. The innovative project is part of the government's initiative to make its capital a 'smart city' by enhancing connectivity, and utilizing data that can improve the services it provides for its citizens.