This plenary session will explore the evolving landscape of smart cities, focusing on how innovation and technology are reshaping urban environments. Panellists will examine the critical role of intellectual property, innovation and technology in fostering sustainable development, cities of the future and how ensuring the protection of innovations whilst fostering collaborations and co-creation of solutions will drive economic growth. Key topics will include the integration of AI and IoT in urban planning, sustainable cities, new methods in building design and construction and the challenges of data privacy and security, and the need for adaptive IP frameworks that encourage collaboration among stakeholders, businesses and regulators. By addressing these intersections, the session aims to provide insights into creating resilient, inclusive, technologically advanced and liveable cities of the future.