The Portuguese city of Maia is recognised for its quality of life, culture, and commitment to sustainability and economic development.
Located in the Porto Metropolitan Area, on the west coast of Europe, the municipality balances fast growing urban and economic development with the preservation of rural areas, heritage and traditions.
The city is committed to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on designing an inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable city, with responsive and accountable institutions.
People living in Maia enjoy quality education and health services, and more than 200 hectares of green spaces. Residents are 10 minutes away from relaxing in the Atlantic beaches, while the city also offers premium sports facilities. The city is a hub for smart and sustainable investment and is home to some of Portugal’s leading companies, as well as Porto International Airport.
Maia is the fifth leading exporter in Portugal. Local businesses recruit talent from the University of Maia, University of Porto and University of Minho, which include some of the best national schools and research centres in Portugal, covering the likes of architecture, science, economics, engineering and technology.
The city also hosts TECMAIA Science and Technology Business Park, 14 industrial areas, and an incubation centre, run in partnership with the National Young Entrepreneurs Association.
Maia continues to develop it connections in Europe and across the world by participating in networks such as Eurocities, UNICEF Child Friendly Cities, Educating Cities, Eixo Atlântico, the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy, UN Resilient Cities, and WHO Age-Friendly Cities.
Maia is the European Volunteering Capital 2026 and was European City of Sports 2014.
