Urbanization is one of the defining demographic trends of the 21st century, driven by population growth, aging, and international migration. Currently, approximately 4.3 billion people—or 55% of the global population—live in cities, with projections indicating that this figure will rise to 7 billion, or 75%, by 2050. Urban populations are already significant in many middle-income countries, ranging from 50% to 80%, and exceed 80% in most high-income nations. This rapid urban growth has prompted substantial investment in smart city technologies, with the global market expected to nearly double from $410.8 billion in 2020 to $820.7 billion by 2025. Cities now serve as critical hubs of economic, social, and cultural activity, capable of driving sustainable development and addressing multiple societal challenges simultaneously. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development emphasizes the centrality of urban areas, particularly through Sustainable Development Goal 11, which seeks to promote sustainable cities, enhance urban resilience, foster inclusive urbanization, and reduce carbon emissions. Understanding the dynamics of urban growth, technological adoption, and policy implementation is therefore essential for shaping resilient, equitable, and sustainable urban environments that meet the needs of current and future populations.