Unlocking the Value of-24-Hours Cities 2025

A call to action4 The 24-hour economy is a vital pathway to urban resilience, economic development and inclusive growth. Four actions can accelerate progress: 1. Integrating night-time governance into city systems. Embedding 24-hour strategies into planning through shared standards, metrics and defined roles like Night Mayors to reduce regulatory uncertainty. 2. Adapting infrastructure for round-the-clock use. Extending access to mobility, lighting and public spaces to support safety, inclusion and economic opportunity beyond daytime hours. 3. Strengthening cross-sector collaboration. Using shared platforms and open data to align efforts across public, private and research sectors, turning innovation into scalable policy.4. Mobilizing targeted financing. Combining public and private funding with targeted support, such as low-cost financing and risk-sharing tools, to help cities invest in more inclusive, 24-hour solutions. Advancing these four actions requires a coordinated, multistakeholder response and holistic vision. The World Economic Forum invites public and private sector leaders to join a global community committed to inclusive, round-the- clock urban governance. This community will co- develop tools, case studies and strategies, as well as develop common  standards to track progress across key domains (Figure 3). As cities evolve, these focus areas offer a strategic framework for innovation, investment and cross- sector collaboration to shape the future of urban life round the clock. Focus areas to unlock 24-hour economies FIGURE 3 Governance and policy1 Mobility and access2 Public safety and well-being3 Urban design and infrastructure4 Economic development and innovation5 Art, culture and community life6 Data monitoring and benchmarking7 Future priorities8 1. Life at night is more than nightlife. Too often, the night is equated with entertainment. However, it is a critical part of public life that is shaped by diverse rhythms, needs and services, from mobility and social connection to cultural expression. 2. Night is a time of work, not just play. From delivery and logistics to cleaning, healthcare and transportation, night-shift workers keep cities running. A thriving night-time economy must prioritize their safety, well-being and inclusion. 3. Public space matters after dark. For many, night-time life unfolds in streets, parks and informal gatherings, not just in ticketed venues. Well-lit, welcoming public spaces and programming are essential for social connection, safety and resilience.Three takeaways for thriving round the clock BOX 1 Unlocking the Potential of 24-Hour Economies 11