From Smart Cities to a Smart Society: A New Perspective on Digital Transformation

Imagine a city that responds to your needs before you even realise them. Transport that adapts in real-time. Education that learns along with you. Does it sound like science fiction? Not quite.

This was precisely the future discussed at the 13th EAI Mobility, IoT and Smart Cities 2026 conference – one of the major global platforms bridging the gap between technology, business, and society.

From Dubai to the Online World – and Why It Doesn't Matter at All

The conference was originally scheduled to take place in Dubai, but due to the security situation, it was moved to a fully online environment, coordinated from NEWTON University in Prague.

At first glance, a step back. In reality, a step forward.

The online format allowed for an even broader connection of scientists, experts, and leaders from across the globe. On 30 March 2026, a space was created for discussion on what a world where technology is no longer just a tool, but a part of everyday life, will look like.

Global Collaboration: Europe Meets the Middle East

Behind the conference lies a strong international partnership, especially the collaboration with Zayed University (UAE).

The conference leadership was provided by:

• Prof. Omar Alfandi (Zayed University), Dean of the College of Technological Innovation, Zayed University, Chair of the Conference Scientific Committee
• Prof. Dagmar Cagáňová (NEWTON University), Vice-Rector for Internationalisation, Chair of the Scientific Committee and Steering Committee

Their joint leadership symbolises something vital: the future is created through collaboration, not in isolation.

NEWTON University was represented by its Chancellor, Anna Plechatá Krausová, DPhil., Chancellor and Chair of the Board of Governors at NEWTON University, Vice-President of the Chamber of Private Higher Education Institutions, and member of the Czech Rectors' Conference.

EAI was represented by Prof. Imrich Chlamtač, President of EAI in Slovakia and Chair of the Conference Steering Committee.

The Most Important Question: Technology is Not Enough

One of the main messages of the conference was surprisingly simple:

We have the technology. The question is whether we know how to use it correctly.

That is why a key pillar of the conference was a special track:

Smart Life, Business & Education

Why is this track so important? Today's world is changing faster than ever before.

• companies operate in digital ecosystems
• work is changing under the influence of AI
• education is becoming a lifelong process

And this is where the problem arises. Not a technological one, but a human one.

NEWTON University: Connecting Theory with Reality

This entire approach strongly reflects the philosophy of the NEWTON University Group, which is built on the integration of:

• Education
• Business
• Innovation

Thus, students are not just passive listeners but active participants in change.

Why It Matters to Each of Us

You might be asking: 'How does this concern me?' The answer is simple.

• You live in a city.
• You use technology.
• You are part of the economy.

This means you are part of this transformation.

Conclusion: Smart Cities or a Smart Society?

The Mobility IoT 2026 conference brought an important realisation: It is not about making cities smart. It is about making society smart. Because at the end of the day… technology does not determine the future. We do.