Policy frameworks for emerging economies sustainable smart city development: The adoption of artificial intelligence and Internet of Things for the revolutionisation of urban infrastructure

Abstract

Background: Innovative urban development techniques are required in emerging economies because of the increased urbanisation, infrastructure deficiencies and environmental difficulties they face. With artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) support, smart cities may improve governance and optimise resource use, all of which contribute to sustainable growth. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to examine how policy frameworks driven by AI and IoT may facilitate adaptive and sustainable urban infrastructure in developing nations such as South Africa. Methods: In this study, a range of articles from the Science Direct, Scopus and Sabinet databases were consulted using the systematic literature review approach. Additionally, the inclusion and exclusion criteria are based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses framework. Results: Findings suggest that developing countries should create integrated frameworks for smart cities that match local implementation capabilities with national vision, to fill financial shortfalls, creative financing methods like technology-specific Public Private Partnership models and municipal funding need to be expanded. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that successful integration of AI and IoT into urban planning requires a fundamental change requiring strong, flexible policy frameworks rather than just a technology advancement. Such frameworks are crucial for emerging economies to use these technologies for sustainable and equitable infrastructure, guaranteeing that the development of smart cities promotes inclusive growth and long-term resilience.