London Wins World City Prize for Innovation & Urban Development | Sadiq Khan

London Honored with the 2026 Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize

London has been named the 2026 laureate of the prestigious Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize, recognizing its exceptional achievements in urban development, innovation, and strategic leadership. The award acknowledges the city’s ability to reinvent itself while maintaining a high quality of life, economic dynamism, and social inclusivity, particularly under the decade-long mayoralty of Sadiq Khan.

A Global Hub for Diversity and Innovation

Home to over nine million people and representing communities from across the globe, London is a uniquely diverse city with over 300 languages spoken. This diversity fuels its position as a leading global hub for talent, investment, and culture.

The Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize

Established in 2010 by the Singapore Government’s Urban Redevelopment Authority and Centre for Liveable Cities, the Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize recognizes cities demonstrating excellence in creating sustainable and vibrant urban environments. Previous recipients include Bilbao, New York, Suzhou, Medellin, Seoul, Vienna, and Mexico City.

Key Initiatives Driving London’s Success

The award highlights several key initiatives that have contributed to London’s success:

• Clean Air and Social Programs: The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) has significantly reduced nitrogen dioxide emissions in central London, enabling the city to meet legal air quality limits sooner than projected. Free school meals for state primary school children have also provided financial relief to families and addressed inequality.
• World-Class Transport and Regeneration: Investments in transport infrastructure, such as the Elizabeth line, have improved connectivity and spurred the development of over 71,000 new homes.
• Transformational Redevelopment Projects: Areas like King’s Cross and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park have been transformed into vibrant mixed-use districts, fostering collaboration and economic growth.
• Inclusive Public Spaces: London’s planning policies prioritize community facilities, green spaces, and cultural programming in new developments, creating liveable neighborhoods. The planned pedestrianization of Oxford Street aims to enhance its appeal as a retail and leisure destination.
• Global Leadership in Key Sectors: London maintains its position as a global leader in finance, technology, life sciences, and the arts, supported by world-renowned universities and cultural institutions. The city is also a hub for AI innovation and a major destination for sporting events.

Statements from Key Leaders

Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, expressed his honor at receiving the award, attributing it to the creativity, resilience, and determination of Londoners. He emphasized the city’s commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and opportunity.

London’s Transport Commissioner, Andy Lord, highlighted the role of public transport investment, including the Elizabeth line and the ULEZ, in making the city more connected, and sustainable.

Laura Citron OBE, CEO of London &amp. Partners, emphasized London’s continuous reinvention and commitment to innovation, citing the ten-year growth plan and upcoming projects like the Oxford Street pedestrianization and East Bank cultural development.

Mark Watts, Executive Director of C40 Cities, praised London’s decisive leadership in tackling climate change through initiatives like the ULEZ and investments in clean public transport.

Ben Rogers, LSE Cities, noted the constructive collaboration between different levels of government, businesses, and civil society in driving sustained investment in London’s infrastructure and public spaces.

Dee Corsi, Chief Executive, New West End Company, acknowledged the award as a confirmation of London’s status as a top global destination, highlighting the benefits of transformational urban projects like the Elizabeth line.

City of London, Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward, emphasized the importance of partnership in London’s success and the City Corporation’s commitment to supporting the capital’s continued growth.

Shazia Hussain, CEO of London Legacy Development Corporation, highlighted the success of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park as an example of London’s ability to evolve through investment in homes, culture, and local talent.

Lizzie Smith, Chair of the London Anchor Institutions’ Network (LAIN), celebrated the collaborative efforts of various organizations in making London a fairer, greener, and more prosperous city.

Jemima Hartshorn, Founder and Director Mums for Lungs, congratulated the Mayor on his leadership in improving air quality through the ULEZ.

Stephanie Slater MBE, Founder and Chief Executive of School Food Matters, praised the Mayor’s free school meals program and its recognition as part of the prize.

London’s success demonstrates how historic cities can balance heritage with innovation, sustainable growth, and social inclusion, setting a standard for urban resilience and long-term planning.