Almaty in Kazakhstan is making confident strides in digital transformation by building a comprehensive "smart city" infrastructure powered by artificial intelligence (AI).
A key element of this strategy has been the development of the Unified Video Surveillance System (UVSS), launched in 2023 using the AI video analytics platform TargetEYE.
According to the city’s Department of Digitalisation, the project is considered unique not only within Kazakhstan but across Central Asia.
At present, the platform is connected to over 50,000 public surveillance cameras, including 2,200 equipped with facial recognition technology.
By the end of 2025, the number of integrated cameras is expected to reach at least 70,000. All video streams are centralised through the city’s Situation Centre, enabling real-time monitoring and rapid response to public safety threats, while also supporting infrastructure oversight.
AI-driven algorithms can detect crowd formations, identify suspicious behaviour, recognise physical altercations, weapons, fire and smoke, and assist in locating individuals and vehicles based on descriptive data.
This provides law enforcement with an effective tool for swift action.
Road infrastructure monitoring is also a key focus. Since October last year, Almaty has implemented an AI-based project to assess road conditions using data from dashboard cameras installed in public buses and emergency vehicles.
The system processes over 500,000 video analytics events daily, allowing for a proactive approach to municipal service management.
Social infrastructure is equally integrated into this digital ecosystem. More than 13,000 cameras are installed in schools, around 9,000 in kindergartens and approximately 5,000 in healthcare facilities.
All video streams are directed to the Operational Control Centre of Almaty’s Police Department. In 2025 alone, over 150 arrests were made with the help of AI video analytics, including individuals listed on international wanted databases.
The technology also plays a role in day-to-day operations. For instance, AI modules are used to count the number of children attending school canteens, showcasing its utility in logistics, safety and accountability.
The development of digital skills is another strategic priority. A year-long AI education programme has been launched for school students in Almaty.
Ten thousand pupils from public schools will undergo training, and the top one thousand participants will qualify as junior developers. These students are expected to produce 1,000 digital products aimed at solving real urban challenges.
Artificial intelligence remains a national priority. In August, the President of Kazakhstan praised the work of the Government and the Akimat of Astana during a high-level meeting on AI development.
He instructed officials to urgently expand the successful Smart City initiative to other major cities across the country. In Astana, for example, 53 billion tenge has already been invested in the project.
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