Future Cities within the Context of the Knowledge Based Economy: Innovative Strategies and Policies – The Case Study of Amman
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35875/dxk57653Keywords:
Digital urbanism, Innovation ecosystems, Knowledge City, Smart urban policies, Spatial intelligenceAbstract
Objective: This paper presents a planning framework for establishing a Knowledge City, clarifying its dimensions and strategic requirements, and explaining how the knowledge economy reshapes urban development.
Methodology: Qualitative, descriptive–analytical design with a comparative lens. Three stages: (1) critical review of academic literature and strategic reports (2015–2024); (2) case study of Amman, selected for its regional role and ongoing digital transition; and (3) SWOT analysis and benchmarking against leading Knowledge Cities (Singapore, Barcelona, Seoul) across domains including digital infrastructure, innovation policies, human capital, and academia–industry collaboration.
Findings: Urban environments must be reconfigured to meet the dynamics of the knowledge economy. Effective Knowledge Cities exhibit functional flexibility, spatial intelligence, and integrated innovation ecosystems. Planning that prioritizes functional connectivity and spatial synergy outperforms traditional zoning. Land-use strategies should advance digital inclusion, knowledge mobility, and real-time adaptability in service provision.
Implications: The framework guides theory, practice, and policy by identifying institutional, legislative, and technological levers: empowering research hubs, reforming education systems, incentivizing public–private partnerships, and adopting adaptive, data-driven governance. It advances scholarly understanding by operationalizing the Knowledge City as a systems-based, networked urban model linking economy, space, and innovation
Conclusions: Synthesizing global benchmarks with the Amman case, the study articulates an actionable pathway for transforming conventional cities into Knowledge Cities. The proposed framework supports creativity, economic competitiveness, and social well-being, offering transferable guidelines for cities pursuing knowledge-driven development.
