Smart City Playbook

Old Neighbor-
hoods

Usecases

Flood Routing Management Software “Weqaya”

“Weqaya”, meaning prevention in Arabic, is a flood routing management software that utilizes geographic information systems (GIS) and 3D modeling solutions to aid in simulating and planning flood scenarios. Due to the lack of adequate infrastructure in old neighborhoods against the risk of flooding in the rainy season, this solution will enable the city’s officials to properly plan for drainage, increasing the safety of residents, decreasing damage to properties, and maintaining the infrastructural integrity of buildings, especially those with cultural significance. The “Weqaya” software includes features such as flood routing, citizen safety, and emergency response.

KEY

CHALLENGES

Lack of utilization of historical monuments and heritage sites within the Old Neighborhoods to generate revenues and create opportunities

Limited access to basic utilities such as water, electricity and internet and limited planning and management on the usage of these valuable resources

Limited planning and management of the neighborhoods to respond better and deploy the right interventions when necessary

KEY EXPECTED BENEFITS

Planning and Forecasting

The Weqaya software will enable an effective visualization, planning, and assessment of urban development in the city to forecast potential consequences for current residents and future generations

Prompt Response

The emergency response will become rapid and more effective by accurately locating emergencies and areas that require immediate support, in addition to offering alternative routes for faster response

Increased Safety

The city will enjoy reduced risks of incidents and events due to improved response and planning by the city’s authorities

ALIGNMENT TO SMART CITY OBJECTIVES

Proactive

TARGET USERS

Government Entities

Old Neighborhood Residents

Urban Planners

Emergency Response

USE CASE

JOURNEY

Khalid is a member of MDA leading the Flood Management Response Program for Old Neighborhoods. He is tasked with developing a strategic plan and emergency response scenario for potential floods that may impact old neighborhoods.

Khalid collects the latest set of data points to be used as an input for the GIS tool in the “Weqaya” Software and creates 3D maps of Old Neighborhoods to run customized flood management scenarios. The software analyzes the impact of floods, highlights simulated flooded areas and their impact, and identifies optimal emergency response routes.

Khaled develops a report of the analysis conducted, details the potential damage that could be caused, and shares it with relevant stakeholders.

During a meeting with representatives from emergency response units such as the Fire Department, National Guards, and the Police, Khalid presents and discusses the developed scenarios to agree on key preventive measures to be taken and initiatives to be deployed to better manage the potential disaster and reduce damages on old neighborhoods.

POTENTIAL SERVICE FEATURES

Direct Donations to Causes

Linking NGOs with the Needy

Possible Integration with the Advanced Database

KEY TOUCH POINTS

Web & App

Implementation
Timeline

Within 6 months

12 – 18 months

Over 24 months

Technology Commercial Viability

Currently commercialized

1 – 3 years to commercialize

5+ years to
commercialize

Regulatory Conduciveness

No New Policies and
Standards

Some Policies &
Standards to be
Introduced

Complex Policies to be
Introduced

Investment Requirement

Low

Medium

High

Use Case Ownership

Government Driven

Piloted by Gov. & Transitioned to Private Sector

Private Sector

Startups & Entrepreneurs

IMPLEMENTATION CONSIDERATIONS

Policies and standards for data collection, data privacy and data sharing

POTENTIAL TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS

IN THE MARKET

Old Neighborhoods

Use Cases

Old Neighborhoods Mapping and Data Collection “Rasd Program“

Smart Narrow-Lane Vehicles  “Easy 3obor”

Old Neighborhood Advanced Database (ONAD)

AI-Powered Architectural Planning Tool “Maher”

Digital Engagement Platform “Tahseen”

Flood Routing Management Software “Weqaya”