When people talk about smart cities in Vietnam, Da Nang always comes first. The city has consistently been recognized as a national leader in digital transformation. For 12 consecutive years, it topped the Vietnam ICT Index, highlighting its strong information technology foundation.
Back in 2014, Da Nang was also the first city to launch an e-Government system. This initiative allowed residents to access services online instead of standing in long queues. By 2016, Da Nang shared this model with 16 other provinces, setting the standard for digital governance nationwide.
These early steps explain why Da Nang is often seen as Vietnam’s smart city pioneer.
Awards and recognition
Da Nang has been honored with multiple Vietnam Smart City Awards, including categories for Smart Environment, Smart Operation, and Smart Living. In 2018, the city gained international recognition by winning the WWF’s One Planet City Challenge, thanks to its policies on renewable energy, smart traffic systems, and greenhouse gas reduction.
More recently, Da Nang received the Seoul Smart City Prize and the ASOCIO Smart City Award, showing that its efforts are respected across Asia.
Digital transformation in urban management
The city has invested heavily in technology to improve daily life. Residents can now complete most administrative procedures through online platforms, reducing waiting times and increasing transparency.
Smart solutions also play a role in urban planning. IoT systems monitor traffic congestion, air quality, and water resources in real time. This helps city leaders make faster, more informed decisions to improve public services.
For businesses, Da Nang’s digital infrastructure creates opportunities in e-commerce, fintech, and green tech.
Lessons for future smart cities
Da Nang’s journey provides valuable lessons that other cities can adapt to their own development plans:
- Start with governance – Digital governance is the foundation of a smart city. By prioritizing online public services, Da Nang built trust and efficiency. Citizens no longer need to waste hours at government offices, and businesses benefit from reduced administrative barriers. Strong governance ensures smoother adoption of new technologies in the future.
- Invest in infrastructure – Technology works best when supported by reliable infrastructure. Da Nang’s integrated ICT systems allow it to monitor transportation, environment, and utilities effectively. Without these systems, smart solutions would remain only on paper. A city must invest in solid digital and physical infrastructure before scaling innovations.
- Prioritize sustainability – A city cannot be truly “smart” without being sustainable. Da Nang linked its smart initiatives to climate goals, from renewable energy adoption to eco-friendly public transport. This approach not only protects the environment but also attracts investment, as global businesses increasingly value green cities.
- Collaborate widely – No city succeeds alone. Da Nang actively shared its e-Government model with other provinces and engaged with international organizations to refine its strategies. Collaboration brings in fresh perspectives, resources, and credibility, helping smart city projects grow beyond local boundaries.
Final thoughts
Da Nang proves that building a smart city is not just about technology. It is about vision, leadership, and consistent action. From e-Government services to environmental initiatives, Đà Nẵng shows how a mid-sized coastal city can set an example for the whole country.
As Vietnam continues its rapid urbanization, the lessons from Da Nang will guide other cities in creating urban spaces that are not only smarter but also greener and more livable.
