Effect of Realization and Development of E-Cities on Urban Sustainable Development (Case Study: Tabriz Metropolis)

The present study is done with the aim of investigating the effect of E-cities realization and expansion on urban sustainable development in Tabriz Metropolis. The research method is applied-developmental and also is descriptive-analytical. As this paper is a survey research, data is collected with documentary and survey methods along with questionnaire as research instrument. The research population includes 45 experts and specialists in ICT and urban affairs from different organizations of Tabriz City. SPSS software and, “T-test one sample” are employed to data analyzing. Research findings indicate that regarding the state of the available infrastructures, among 13 investigated activities, possibility of becoming electronic for bank activities, transportation affairs, travel, scientific activities and information achievement are in higher scores. The expert’s general attitude about realizing E-cities with 3.13 average is in moderate level. They believe that Tabriz urban activities could be done in electronic ways to some extent. In addition, the results indicate that regarding the status of the Tabriz city in Iran and its significance in the region as well as the process of population development, using E-tools and ICT knowledge and realization of E-cities can be as important steps for urban sustainable development achievement. Therefore, 75.6 % of experts have evaluated the role of using ICT and realization of E-cities on urban sustainable development in high level and 24.4% of them believe them in moderate level.