The concept of ‘smart city’ has no globally unified formal definition, however; several diverse initiatives, studies and approaches are being undertaken worldwide to demonstrate the concept. In its broad definition, the main goal is the implementation of technological knowledge to improve urban services management efficiency, therefore reducing costs and environmental impact while theoretically also improving the quality of life of the citizens. Rapid development in ICT, data analysis and sensor devices, urban labs, pervasive connectivity and the mobile and online applications, are opening the door for city interventions that were not considered ever before. How is the MENA region reacting to this? How could the private and public sectors lead the way towards the Cities of the Future?