In recent decades, the concept of smart cities has permeated global discourse, promising transformative advancements in urban living through technological integration. However, amidst the fervor for innovation, there exists a significant gap between technological rhetoric and human-centric outcomes. This paper proposes a shift towards human-centered smart cities, integrating an urban semiotic approach into the discourse surrounding urban development.Smart cities, often characterized by their emphasis on technological infrastructure and efficiency, frequently overlook the nuanced socio-cultural fabric of urban environments and fail to prioritize the well-being and agency of their inhabitants. By foregrounding the principles of urban semiotics, this paper advocates for a holistic approach to smart city initiatives.Central to this approach is the recognition that technology should serve as a tool for enhancing human experiences and fostering inclusive and sustainable communities. Rather than imposing preconceived technological solutions onto urban landscapes, the integration of urban semiotics encourages a nuanced understanding of local contexts, values and practices. Through this lens, technological innovations can be tailored to address the needs and aspirations of diverse cultural communities, thereby fostering greater acceptance and engagement.By integrating urban semiotics into the discourse surrounding smart city development, this paper envisions a future where technological progress is harmonized with human flourishing, resulting in more equitable, resilient and inclusive urban environments.