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DATA FOR A BETTER FUTURE
The number of air quality monitoring stations operating across the UAE reached 57 in 2024, marking a 46% increase over the past decade, compared to 55 stations in 2023, according to the latest data issued by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) and the National Center of Meteorology (NCM).
Of the total stations, 32 stations (56%) are located within populated areas, ensuring continuous monitoring of air quality in residential communities across the country.
Data from all monitoring stations indicate that the average concentrations of key air pollutants, including carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and sulfur dioxide (SO₂) remained low compared to previous years and within the limits set by the UAE National Air Quality Standards.
Air quality remains a national priority for the UAE, given its direct impact on public health and quality of life. The UAE Government has embedded air quality as a key performance indicator (KPI) under the “We the UAE 2031” Vision and the UAE Centennial 2071 Strategy, both of which aim to promote social wellbeing and a sustainable economy. In addition, air quality is one of the eight core policy priorities within the National Environmental Agenda led by MOCCAE.
According to FCSC data on the geographic distribution of monitoring stations in 2024, Abu Dhabi recorded the highest number with 21 stations (37%), followed by Dubai with 14 stations (25%), Ajman with 7 stations (12%), Fujairah with 6 stations (11%), Ras Al Khaimah with 4 stations (7%), Sharjah with 3 stations (5%), and Umm Al Quwain with 2 stations (3%).
In terms of functional distribution, residential areas account for 56% of all stations to ensure comprehensive coverage of inhabited regions, followed by roadside locations at 23%, industrial and commercial areas at 14%, while the remaining stations are distributed across other locations in the UAE.
Air quality monitoring stations play a vital role in detecting substances released into the atmosphere, directly or indirectly which may alter air composition in ways harmful to human health, living organisms, natural resources, or populated areas. The stations provide accurate daily, monthly, and annual measurements of major air pollutants, including sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, ground-level ozone, and inhalable particulate matter.
The National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in cooperation with United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), has launched the SDGs Research Program during an event held at the university’s campus in Al Ain. The event was attended by His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chairman of the National Committee on SDGs, and H.E. Prof. Ahmed Al Raeesi, Vice Chancellor of the United Arab Emirates University, along with a number of faculty members and students.
The launch of the program comes as part of the national efforts aimed at strengthening the contribution of higher education institutions to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals and consolidating the role of scientific research in developing practical and innovative solutions that contribute to achieving the 2030 Global Agenda, in line with the UAE’s future vision of building a sustainable, knowledge-based economy.
Abdulla Lootah: Enhancing scientific research is a key tool for development and decision-making
During his address at the event, H.E. Abdulla Nasser Lootah affirmed that the cooperation between the National Committee on SDGs and UAEU represents a national model for integration between government entities and academic institutions. He stressed that the SDGs Research Program embodies, in its objectives and orientations, the UAE’s vision and the focus of its wise leadership on enhancing scientific research as a key tool for development and for supporting decision-making processes. H.E. further reaffirmed the commitment to empowering youth and researchers to become partners in developing practical solutions that advance the achievement of the SDGs.
Lootah added that the program serves as a national platformthat brings together academic thought and government expertise within a distinguished learning and research model that enables the transformation of research output into initiatives and policies that enhance the UAE’s standing in global indicators and support its position as a hub for sustainable knowledge.
Ahmed Al Raeesi: A milestone in the university’s journey towards research leadership
For his part, H.E. Prof. Ahmed Al Raeesi, Vice Chancellor of the United Arab Emirates University, stateden that the launch of this program marks a new milestone in the university’s journey towards research leadership. He said: “At UAEU, we are pleased to be an active part of the national efforts to achieve the SDGs. Our aim today is to empower youth to be effective contributors to shaping the future, and to integrate sustainability thinking into education and scientific research to generate knowledge that provides practical solutions to the challenges of our time, from climate change to sustainable cities and clean energy.”
H.E. added that the program reflects the fruitful partnership between academic institutions and government entities, noting that the UAE has made sustainability a national priority through field action and effective partnerships. The program further strengthens the university’s position as a leading national research institution and an academic partner supporting the country’s journey towards achieving the 2030 Global Agenda.
Development of applied scientific research
The program focuses on encouraging students to develop applied scientific research across multiple fields, including climate, energy, environment, health, education, and economic growth, in addition to enhancing their skills in research, analysis, and the development of sustainable scientific solutions.
It also seeks to activate academic and institutional partnerships within an integrated national ecosystem that supports the transformation of research outputs into practical initiatives contributing to the development of public policies and the achievement of the desired societal impact.
The cooperation between the National Committee and UAEU represents a practical embodiment of SDG 17, which focuses on partnerships for the goals, as efforts are integrated to build a new generation of researchers capable of keeping pace with global challenges and developing qualitative solutions that serve people and the environment. The launch of the program reflects the UAE’s commitment to supporting the education and scientific research ecosystem as a fundamental pillar for achieving comprehensive development, and to strengthening its position as a regional and global hub for knowledge and innovation in sustainability fields.
Majed Al Mesmar: These achievements reflect the UAE’s steady progress towards global leadership.
Hanan Ahli: The results reflect the UAE’s leading position in digital transformation regionally and globally.
The UAE has ranked 9th globally and 1st in the region in the World Digital Competitiveness Report 2025 issued by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Lausanne, Switzerland. The ranking strengthens the UAE’s position among the world’s top 10 digital performers, reaffirming its regional leadership and outperforming several advanced global economies. It also underscores the UAE’s ability to keep pace with rapid technological shifts and to build a fully integrated digital development model driven by innovation, artificial intelligence, and human capital.
His Excellency Eng. Majed Sultan Al Mesmar, Director General of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) stated that “The UAE ranking 9th globally in the 2025 Digital Competitiveness Report is a testament to the efficiency of its digital ecosystem and the maturity of its technological infrastructure across both government and economic sectors. It further highlights the UAE’s position as a global role model in building a comprehensive, resilient, and secure digital infrastructure capable of accelerating innovation and promoting the UAE’s economic competitiveness.”
“In our view, this is the result of the integrated institutional collaboration between public and private sector entities working together to enhance digital performance and sustain progress. This achievement reflects the UAE’s steadfast path toward global leadership, where digital transformation has become a national way of life; enhancing wellbeing and driving sustainable economic growth,” H.E. added.
Hanan Ahli: Results reflect the UAE’s forward-looking vision
Her Excellency Hanan Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC), stated that the UAE’s ratings in the World Digital Competitiveness Report highlight the exceptional progress in digital transformation both regionally and globally. “The UAE’s success reflects the effectiveness of national strategies and policies aimed at building a sustainable, knowledge-based economy by empowering national talents, enhancing technical skills, and preparing future generations to thrive in the digital era,” H.E. noted. “These results further strengthen the UAE’s position as a leading global model in digital transformation, fostering a knowledge-driven environment, creatingsustainable opportunities for future generations andbuilding a society grounded in innovation, knowledgeand future sciences,” she added.
Global Leadership in Key Indicators
The UAE ranked 1st globally in key indicators, including internet usage, high-speed connectivity, venture capital availability, public-private partnerships, and digital skills. It also ranked 1st globally in attracting international students and global expertise. In addition, the UAE ranked among the world’s top 5 in 15 indicators and top 10 in 22 indicators, reflecting the depth and inclusiveness of its digital advancement across all sectors.
Sustained Growth in Digital Competitiveness
“The report revealed that the UAE advanced to 9th place globally, up from 18th in the first edition of the report in 2017, marking a consistent upward trajectory in digital competitiveness and highlighting the maturity of its national digital environment and proactive policy framework.”The UAE also maintained its leading regional position, remaining the only country in the Middle East among the global top 10 in digital competitiveness.
Future-Ready and Tech-Driven
According to the report, the UAE ranked 5th globally in Future Readiness, reflecting its high capacity to adopt emerging technologies and develop advanced digital ecosystems. It also ranked 6th globally in the Technology pillar, supported by robust digital infrastructure and extensive investments in advanced technologies and government digital services. In the Knowledge pillar, the UAE ranked 12th globally, underscoring the strength of its education system and national talent development initiatives.
Despite global economic and geopolitical shifts and disruptions to technology supply chains, the report noted that the UAE successfully sustained its digital momentum; reinforcing its reputation as one of the world’s most resilient and innovation-friendly digital economies.
For the first time, the report included data on artificial intelligence patents and private-sector investments in AI, in which the UAE ranked 1st regionally, reflecting the ambitions of its National AI Strategy 2031 and its commitment to a knowledge-driven, innovation-based economy.
These results align with the UAE’s strategic national visions, including the UAE Centennial 2071, the UAE National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031, and the Digital Government Strategy, along with key national initiatives such as 1 Million Arab Coders, Advanced Research Laboratories, and National Talent Upskilling Programs.
A Global Model for Digital Transformation
The UAE’s ongoing development reaffirms its position as a world leader in digital transformation and future economy, embodying the wise leadership’s vision to build a competitive, innovation-driven, and knowledge-based national ecosystem that fosters sustainable growth and empowers future-ready generations.
UAE – 06 November 2025: The UAE Government has launched the Unified UAE Numbers, the comprehensive national platform dedicated to AI-powered data and statistics aimed at providing accurate, real-time and trusted data to support decision making and drive the UAE’s readiness for future shifts. The launch took place at the UAE Government Annual Meetings 2025.
The Unified UAE Numbers platform is being developed in partnership between the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center (FCSC) and the Ministry of Foreign Trade, and in coordination with relevant federal and local entities. The platform will be hosted on the UAE Government Federal Network (FedNet) to ensure maximum security.
The platform is an outcome of the Economic Data Retreat, where extensive discussions focused on strengthening the national statistics system, its governance, and data exchange between entities. It will create a unified, smart national ecosystem that enhances the quality and reliability of national data, driving the UAE’s transformation toward smart statistics.
His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade said: “This day marks our transition from a phase of compiling data to one of managing knowledge. From traditional statistics to smart statistics. This strategic transformation is embodied by the Unified UAE Numbers platform, which opens new horizons for decision makers to harness the power of data to drive development, national economy’s competitiveness and the UAE’s global status.”
His Excellency Al Zeyoudi added: “This platform shows how the UAE’s statistics ecosystem has matured to become capable of providing accurate, trusted and real-time data to help read economic trends and guide policies and investments. Ultimately it will strengthen the UAE’s ability to respond to global shifts and shape the future of vital sectors.”
Her Excellency Maryam bint Ahmed Al Hammadi, Minister of State, General Secretary of the UAE Cabinet and General Supervisor of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC), said: “The launch of the Unified UAE Numbers platform embodies our leadership’s vision for a future government driven by data and AI. This platform represents a major step in the government’s digital transformation, fostering a unified approach and empowering entities to make swift, precise decisions backed by trusted, real-time data.”
Her Excellency Al Hammadi added: “By establishing a smart national statistics infrastructure, we are building a foundation to inform public policy, bolster the UAE’s competitiveness, and accelerate economic growth across all sectors.”
Her Excellency pointed out that the platform is an outcome of the Economic Data Retreat, which brought together 28 national entities in the first phase to establish 380 economic indicators and lay out a unified framework for GDP data, as well as balance of payment and investment.
She highlighted the essential role of data in formulating policy, setting priorities, measuring impact, and monitoring performance, noting that ultimately, this platform ensures that governance is data-driven, thereby strengthening the UAE’s readiness for AI adoption, achieving seamless integration of national databases, and creating an agile regulatory environment that champions both innovation and sustainability.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, visited the UAE Statistics Mural, a major exhibit at the Statistics Exhibition organised by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre as part of the UAE Government Annual Meetings 2025 in Abu Dhabi.
The exhibition showcases the UAE’s journey in numbers since the launch of its federal institutions from the 1970s until present.
The mural presents a timeline from the 1970s onward, chronicling the UAE’s key strategic and statistical achievements in each decade. The journey begins in the 70s, when statistics work started and culminated in the nation’s first population census in 1975. This pivotal event established a national framework for planning and modern state-building, transforming numbers into an essential tool to chart the course for development.
The timeline continues to the 2020-2030 decade, highlighting the critical transition into the future. This decade is defined by the shift towards smart transformation and comprehensive digitisation through a smart, integrated statistical ecosystem capable of predictive analysis and guiding data-driven policy.
This era represents a fundamental evolution from traditional fieldwork to smart statistics, transforming data into a power that actively shapes the future.
Organised under the theme ‘50 Years of UAE Statistics’, the exhibition showcases a series of statistics reports and groups that date from the establishment of the Ministry of Planning through to the launch of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre.
The exhibition also showcases statistics indicators across various vital sectors, the latest release of the Unified UAE Numbers report, and a video documenting the UAE’s first census and other relevant milestones.
The UAE Government Annual Meetings 2025 hosted the Economic Data Retreat, a specialised strategic retreat which aims to formulate advanced national approaches to managing economic data, as well as enhancing the UAE’s readiness to keep up with rapid global shifts in AI, digital transformation and big data.
The retreat, which hosted three different sessions, brought together ministers and heads of economic, regulatory, financial and tech entities, as well as representatives of Digital Transformation Councils from across the UAE.
Strategic importance
The Economic Data Retreat is strategically timed to underscore the importance of creating a smart, integrated ecosystem of national data, capable of keeping up with global shifts and enhancing the UAE’s competitiveness in digital economy, investment and data-driven planning. The retreat is a key step toward establishing the UAE’s leadership in adopting smart policies, utilising data as a strategic decision-making tool, achieving sustainable development and enhancing the nation’s future readiness.
Unified procurement of big data
The first session titled ‘The Unified Procurement of Big Data: Standardising Federal and Local Contracts’, was led by His Excellency Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs.
The session discussed the pivotal role of big data in supporting policies and decision making, and highlighted the need to increase the efficiency of the government data procurement system to improve data quality and accuracy, facilitate secure data exchange among entities and ensure its effective utilisation to support future plans and national policies.
Participants emphasised that launching a unified national model to coordinate government procurement of big data is a strategic step toward identifying federal and local data needs, and unifying procurement efforts on a national level, leading to reduced costs, increased efficiency and accelerated data access.
His Excellency Mohamed Al Hussaini explained that the UAE government, guided by its leadership, is prioritising big data as a cornerstone of the nation’s competitive and digital economy future. He noted that the goal is to build an integrated, real-time national economic data system. This system will provide decision-makers across all sectors with a reliable, instant flow of data, which is key to accelerating smart developmental planning and enabling effective public policies.
Integrating investment data
The second session, titled ‘National Integration of Inbound and Outbound Investment Data’, was led by His Excellency Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, Minister of Investment.
The session discussed the importance of creating an integrated national system for investment data that contributes to increased data accuracy and reliability, while supporting the UAE’s ability to measure the economic and social impact of investments.
His Excellency Mohamed Alsuwaidi said: “In a highly competitive world vying for quality capital, the UAE continues to solidify its status as a leading global destination for investment, while focusing on measuring investment impact in terms of creating jobs, transferring knowledge and supporting vital sectors. Such efforts help promote sustainable development and underscore the competitiveness of our national economy.”
Smart statistics system
The third session, titled ‘Toward a Unified Smart National Statistics System’ was led by Her Excellency Maryam bint Ahmed Al Hammadi, Minister of State, Secretary General of the UAE Cabinet and the General Supervisor of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC).
The session discussed challenges facing the national statistics system, and how to ensure the integration and readiness of data sources and their governance standards cohesion.
The session also discussed plans toward establishing a unified smart national statistics system and approving the development of a regulatory policies package. Such measures help enhance the reliability of national data, and support the accelerated adoption of AI in planning and general policy making.
Her Excellency Maryam bint Ahmed Al Hammadi said: “Building a unified smart national statistics system is essential for transforming the availability and integration of data in real time to bolster the UAE’s competitiveness and accelerate its development plans.”
She added: “The Economic Data Retreat reflects the UAE Government’s vision for advancing to the next phase of statistics integration by developing innovative policies, ensuring that national data is accurate, up-to-date, and accessible to support decision making and future foresight.”
The National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in cooperation with the Government Experience Exchange Office at the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs and in collaboration with the Sustainable Development Goals Academy, has launched the “2030 SDGs Leaders Program”, aimed at empowering national, regional and global government leaders with modern tools, expertise and skills in leading efforts to achieve the SDGs.
The program seeks to enable participating leaders to integrate sustainable development principles into government strategies by developing future leadership skills, strengthening strategic thinking, and building capacities in international cooperation and partnerships for sustainable development. This will enhance integration among government entities and contribute to improving institutional performance.
Implemented under the supervision of experts from the UAE Government, the program includes knowledge visits to leading government entities, workshops and interviews with 17 Emirati experts. It brings together 32 government leaders from 14 countries, including 13 international participants and 19 participants from the UAE, representing senior leadership levels such as ministers, directors-general and undersecretaries. Among them are a minister from the Republic of Maldives, an assistant minister from the Republic of Serbia, and an assistant undersecretary from the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Abdulla Lootah: Strengthening the UAE’s position as a Global Hub for Experience in Sustainable Development
His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chairman of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, affirmed that the launch of the “2030 SDGs Leaders Program” comes as part of the UAE’s efforts to support the achievement of the SDGs nationally and globally, thereby strengthening its position as a global hub for experience exchange in the field of sustainable development and in support of the 2030 Global Agenda.
Lootah stated that the program represents a practical platform for developing national and global competencies concerned with the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, through interactive sessions and applied workshops that enhance thinking in the design and implementation of sustainable initiatives and projects; and support the building of impactful partnerships between government and international sectors in the fields of development, environment and society.
Jeffrey Sachs: Supporting government leaders to address major challenges
For his part, Jeffrey Sachs, President of the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), said: “The SDGs Leaders Program helps support government leaders in addressing the major challenges of our time. Achieving sustainable development requires leaders who think systemically, plan effectively, and build trust across borders and sectors. This program in the UAE strengthens these capacities and builds a generation of leaders who will achieve SDGs and work towards a more peaceful and prosperous world. The SDG Academy of the United Nations SDSN is honored to support the UAE Government Experience Exchange Office and the UAE National Committee on SDGs in this distinguished program.”
Sustainable development and future leadership
In its first track, the program featured intensive dialogue and interactive sessions over five days, addressing key pillars of sustainable development and future leadership. The first and second days focused on leading transformation and governance for systemic change through presentations, case studies and thinking labs aimed at developing leadership capacities, strengthening institutional integration and expanding the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Agenda.
The sessions also focused on innovation, financing and strategic partnerships, and on anticipating the future of development through digital transformation and the 2045 XDGs Agenda. Leaders participated in workshops, field visits and dialogues to develop national directions and transform visions into practical steps that support the continuity of collective action towards a more sustainable future. The program included specialized sessions, workshops and policy acceleration labs, as well as visits to the Museum of the Future; the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park; and the Mohammed bin Rashid Centre for Government Innovation (MBRCGI), to explore innovative models in governance, sustainable energy and digital transformation.
National and global participation
Participants from the UAE included government leaders from: the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment; Ministry of Health and Prevention; Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Ministry of Education; Ministry of Interior; Ministry of Community Empowerment; UAE Gender Balance Council; Supreme Council for Motherhood & Childhood; Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi; Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) ; Department of Municipalities and Transport in Abu Dhabi; Department of Community Development in Abu Dhabi; Dubai Civil Aviation Authority; Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA); the Roads and Transport Authority in Dubai (RTA); and Dubai Municipality.
International participants represented: Republic of Seychelles; Republic of Maldives; Republic of Uzbekistan; Republic of Azerbaijan; Kingdom of Bahrain; Republic of Georgia; Romania; Montenegro; Republic of Rwanda; Hungary; Republic of Kazakhstan; Republic of Kenya; and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
The SDG Academy, the program’s academic partner, supports the design of content and provides specialized educational resources. As an educational initiative of the UNSDSN, it brings together global experts in poverty reduction, climate action, gender equality and policy innovation.
Government Experience Exchange
The UAE government launched the Government Experience Exchange Programme to transfer best government practices and expertise to countries and to enhance cooperation in government modernization and development. Since its launch in 2018, the programme has successfully established partnerships with dozens of countries worldwide, aimed at building institutional capacities and improving government performance through experience exchange in strategic planning, government excellence and leadership in government services, in addition to implementing strategic initiatives and building institutional capacities.
The National Committee
The National Committee on SDGs undertakes key tasks including coordinating with relevant entities to align and review policies, strategies and national targets with the SDGS; building and strengthening national capacities to achieve the SDGs and address challenges through local and international partnerships; preparing national reports on the country’s results and efforts to achieve the SDGs; and coordinating with entities to prepare and publish SDG-related data at the national level.
Competed against Switzerland, Finland, Mexico and other bidding nations
Cape Town, SA, Dubai, UAE – January 18, 2017
The organizing committee of the UN World Data Forum announced today that the UAE is the destination of choice for the event’s second edition in 2018. Currently in session in Cape Town, South Africa and attended by over 1500 global data expert, the four-day knowledge event hosts scientists, government officials, private sector leaders and academics to share knowledge, ideas and best practices on gathering valuable data, and how data can support countries’ drive toward achieving UN Sustainable development goals.
Switzerland, Finland, Mexico, UAE and a number of countries applied to host the event’s second cycle in 2018. National bid teams presented the hosting files to UN officials for assessment and evaluation. The World Data Forum organizing committee decided, after careful assessment, that the UAE will be the hosting country of the event in 2018.
A team from the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) managed UAE’s bid dossier for the forum. The bid file presented UAE’s capability to host and organize large-scale events of all sort of theme and subjects. Some of the key points highlighted in the bid file is the availability of an advanced infrastructure, a wide area of hotels and high-tech conference facilities that can accommodate the largest events and activities, and served by the world’s top talented event management companies and individuals. In addition to the fact that UAE is ranked as one of the safest countries in the world.
"I am delighted and proud of this achievement,” said Her Excellency Reem Bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation and Chairwoman of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority. “I would like to congratulation the UAE leadership and people for this important accomplishment. Selecting the UAE asserts our leadership’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals 2030, and hosting the World Data Forum reconfirms the UAE’s growing role within the international community. We aspire that the World Data Forum to become a platform for a global roadmap for excellence in data management and utilization, and to serve the UAE and the entire international community."
"The FCSA team put great efforts into building and presenting a compelling bid file. We were competing against countries that have a long history in hosting highly attended international events. Thankfully, the FCSA team was successful in presenting UAE’s capability to host the World Data Forum, thanks to the nation’s excellent record of accomplishments in hosting similar events and forums that discuss innovation, data and knowledge. We look forward to hosting the World Data Forum in 2018, as it will take us closer to achieving UAE vision 2021 and the sustainable development goals," added Abdulla Lootah, director general of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority.
International Recognition:
Welcoming the announcement of the selection, various international officials congratulated the UAE on winning the hosting bid, and expressed their excitement on choosing the UAE as a location for the second edition of the World Data Forum in 2018.
We at the United Nations Statistics Division are looking forward to working with the colleagues from the United Arab Emirates to organize together an open and inclusive 2nd World Data Forum. This will be a unique opportunity to strengthen data and statistical systems for development not only at the national, but also at the regional and global level."said Mr. Stefan Schweinfest, Director, United Nations Statistics Division.
Dr Pali Lehohla, Statistician-General of the Republic of South Africa and Head of Statistics South Africa and host of the current World Data Forum 2017 stated "On behalf of Statistics South Africa, the host of the 1st UN World Data Forum, I would like to congratulate Director-General Mr Abdullah Lootah, as well as the Boards, Advisory Committees, and staff at Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority and all statistics centres as well as the people of United Arab Emirates for being selected as the hosts of the 2nd UN World Data Forum. We look forward to continue the pursuit of prosperity for the planet and its people through the Sustainable Development Goals Agenda (Vision 2030) in your beautiful country during the 2nd UN World Data Forum. We applaud all those involved in bidding for hosting the Forum and wish to let you know that Statistics South Africa is available to assist wherever possible."
"Statistics Denmark is looking forward to participating in the 2nd World Data Forum in Dubai as the event will have a major impact on the region’s production of statistics and strengthen the UAE role in the global statistical community," said Mr. Jørgen Elmeskov, Director General, Statistics Denmark.
Pride and Excitement within the UAE data and statistics community:
His Excellency Ali Mohammad Hammad Al Shamsi as Deputy Secretary-General of the Supreme National Security Council said, "the UAE is always the pioneer in hosting leading global forums and events, especially ones that discuss knowledge and innovation; and for the UAE to win the hosting of UN Data Forum 2018, this is an important accomplishment for the development of statistics, open and big data fields in the UAE. Fields considered today as one of the most important foundations required for government policy and decision making."
"The UAE proved its ability to host some of the world’s most important knowledge forums that gather the best expertise from around the globe. That is attributed to the ongoing policy adopted by the wise leadership in making science, knowledge and innovation as the basis of social, cultural and economic growth and development," said His Excellency Rashed Lahej Nasser Said Al Mansouri, Chairman of Statistics Centre-Abu Dhabi and Director General of Abu Dhabi Systems and Information Center (ADSIC)
"We are proud that we will be able to gather the world’s elite in data and statistics under one roof in the UAE in 2018. Hosting the World Data Forum will be a strong boost for the national agenda, as the event will assert the importance of producing accurate, up-to-date and detailed data on population, health, education, environment and other developmental pillars," said His Excellency Abdulla Abdul Rahman Al Shaibani – Secretary General of the Executive Council of Dubai.
"UAE’s hosting of the World Data Forum reflects the wise leadership’s direction and objective for the UAE to be the number one destination for the world’s best minds and expertise, especially in the fields of data and statistics," said his Excellency Sultan Bin Butti Al Muhairi, Secretary General, Sharjah Executive Council.
"We are proud that the UAE will host the UN World Data Forum in 2018. Being able to gather the world’s top experts in the field of data and statistics will add great value in addressing the challenges the world face in gathering accurate statistics, and we will be able to draw unified roadmaps and methodologies for global statistical standards," said His Excellency Engineer Saeed Saif Al Matrooshi, Secretary-General of the Executive Council of Ajman.
"This accomplishment is a step forward in development the statistical ecosystem and providing better data, which is what we constantly work on achieving here in the UAE. Being selected to host the World Data Forum is a great opportunity to support the sustainable development goals 2030, and can also help unify the language that statisticians and data scientists use to produce data," said His Excellency Humaid bin Rashid bin Humaid Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the Executive Council, Um Al Quwain.
"The UN Data Forum is a global forum that specializes in data and statistics and the UAE hosting is in 2018 is a great undertaking that will call for the collaboration of all related entities in the UAE to produce a great event, with positive and beneficial outcomes," His Excellency Mohammed Saeed Al Dhanhani, Fujairah Emiri Court.
"We are delighted that the UAE will host another global forum on data and invite the worlds’ best data practitioners to the country. This event is a global platform aimed for sharing ideas and proposing innovative initiatives in the field of data management, and confirms data’s vital role in dealing with developmental challenges, and how to utilize this data to fulfil future vision and produce an integrated framework of recommendation, for the purpose of excelling in the field of data," said his Excellency Dr Mohammed Abdullatif Khalifa, Secretary General, Executive Council, Ras Al Khaima.
"I am fully confident that the UN World Data Forum 2018 which the UAE will host for the first time, and FCSA will support in organizing, will wittiness exceptional collaboration between some of the world’s statistical offices and work on the continuous enhancement of global statistical frameworks, and devising practical solutions for all the challenges statisticians face. We hope, through this forum, that we will be able to launch new pioneering ideas that can help in the production, publishing and utilization of data in a way that can serve national plans and visions. We would also like to reassure that the Statistical Center- Abu Dhabi is committed via all its resources to the forum success in the UAE in 2018," said His Excellency Butti Ahmed Mohamed Bin Butti Al Qubaisi, Director General of the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi.
"The UN World Data Forum is a unique collaboration opportunity for data producers and practitioners, and can serve a great platform to launch new initiatives that can provide better data on health, education, income and other data sets that are critical for successful and sustainable development," said His Excellency Aref Obaid Al Muhairi, Executive Director, Dubai Statistics Center.
"We are delighted that the UAE will be hosting UN World Data Forum as it will be a new milestone in the UAE’s journey to a knowledge based economy. Data is one of the most important pillars needed for a successful developmental strategy, which is based on capacity building and intellectual capital," said His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Thani, Director General of the Sharjah Statistics Centre.
"We look forward to participate in this important global event which places the UAE on the global data and statistics map. We congratulate the UAE and its people for this accomplishment and we are fully committed to play our role to support this forum and all international forums held in the UAE," said Dr Ibrahim Saad, General Manager, Fujairah Statistics Center.
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority signs agreement with Dubai Electricity and Water Authority to support the UN World Data Forum 2018
DUBAI, 28th July, 2018 (WAM)
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) to build a strategic relationship to support the United Nations 2018 World Data Forum, to be hosted by the United Arab Emirates in October 2018. More than 1,500 leaders, decision makers, experts and specialists in the field of data and statistics from around the world will attend the event.
The MoU was signed by H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director General, and Chairman of the Organising Committee of the UN World Data Forum 2018, and HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, in the presence of senior officials of both organisations.
H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director General, said: "Energy sustainability and efficiency improvement is one of the key sustainable development goals. Underlining its visionary leadership, the UAE has adopted a long-term strategy to promote this goal, and reduce that nation’s dependence on traditional energy sources. Our nation has taken concerted initiatives to diversify energy sources and increase the contribution of clean energy to the overall mix to ensure sustainability for our future generations. The availability of accurate statistical data and information will support the development of future scientific and knowledge plans that will drive the efforts of national institutions in this field."
"The MoU signed with Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) will integrate the efforts of national institutions to contribute international expertise and best practices in building national capacities in statistical fields. This will help provide data that serve the objectives of the national development agenda, and highlight the UAE’s leading position as one of the best countries in the world in the use of data and information to achieve sustainable development in all fields and sectors," he added.
"We are pleased to be the strategic partner of the UN World Data Forum, organised by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority. This underlines the position of the UAE as an ideal platform for hosting the biggest and most important conferences and forums, thanks to its robust infrastructure and capabilities to organise major events. The Forum will be an opportunity to discuss the growing importance of data for governments around the world and the need to develop ways for collecting and processing data to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals 2030. We are sponsoring this international forum because we believe in the important role data and statistics play in building smart cities and promoting the transformation towards a knowledge-based economy by encouraging creativity and innovation. This is achieved by utilising data to develop innovative solutions, smart applications, and value-added services. Through Digital DEWA, the digital arm of DEWA, we are redefining the concept of a utility to create a new digital future for Dubai. DEWA will disrupt the entire business of public utilities by becoming the world’s first digital utility using autonomous systems for renewable energy and its storage, expansion in Artificial Intelligence adoption, and digital services. Dubai will be the first city to provide AI-based electricity and water services. DEWA will launch a futuristic digital platform, a data hub named MORO, to improve the UAE’s digital capabilities to develop smart cities, provide state-of-the-art innovative solutions, and a successful model for Dubai and the world," said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA.
Al Tayer appreciated the efforts of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority in preparing, managing and presenting the UAE’s bid dossier to host the UN World Data Forum 2018. He emphasised the importance of the forum’s topics, which focuses on sustainability. DEWA attaches great importance to supporting the UAE’s efforts in line with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals 2030. DEWA is committed to adopting sustainability as a main priority for its strategic direction, plans and initiatives, to support the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, which aims to provide 7% of Dubai’s total power output from clean energy by 2020, 25% by 2030 and 75% by 2050, and the Dubai Plan 2021, which aims to make Dubai a city that is sustainable with its resources and supported by environmental elements that are clean, healthy, sustainable.
The MoU provides for DEWA to share resources and expertise to contribute to the organising this important global gathering, which examines the impact of data and its role in achieving the goals of the Sustainable Development Agenda 2030, in a way that is commensurate with the distinctive position of the UAE and its role in stimulating international cooperation to achieve development goals at global levels. The two entities will review the UAE’s leading global experience in drawing on data to shape future policies and plans in many areas, including the energy sector. They will also highlight the most prominent national projects and achievements achieved by the nation to support the global commitment to promote energy sustainability.
The two organisations will also leverage the discussions and recommendations of the forum and benefit from international expertise to build the competencies of national talent, improve their skills and develop their expertise in statistical fields to deploy them in the development of plans, visions and common policies that serve the achievement of development goals at the local level, including the objectives of the National Agenda for Vision 2021 and the UAE Plan 2071.
The MoU will leverage the activities of the global forum, which is hosted by the UAE to consolidate its position and leading role in building bridges of cooperation and establishing effective partnerships for data exchange and promoting its optimal use to achieve the goals of sustainable development 2030.
The UN World Data Forum 2018 will provide an opportunity to network with organisations, companies, institutions, universities, as well as experts, specialists, and data workers from around the world.
The forum will be attended by leaders of data, and a large number of officials from government and business sectors, who will take part in specialized discussion sessions in establishing a scientific environment to enhance the contribution of data and statistics to achieving the goals of sustainable development 2030.
Reem Al Hashimi: The Council will initiate the role and visions of young people and their ideas for building societies and sustainable development in and out of the UAE.
Shamma Al Mazroui: The Council is a unique opportunity to be involved in an experience of knowledge and acquire practical skills that qualify young people to be future leaders.
Dubai-UAE, 30 December 2018
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) has revealed that the evaluation phase of the candidates’ membership applications for the Youth Advisory Council for SDGs has been commenced.
The Youth Advisory Council for SDGs was announced that the council will be established in the presence of H.E. Amina Mohammed, the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, during the United Nations Global Data Forum 2018 held last October in Dubai.
The total number of candidates’ membership applications for the Youth Council reached 610 applications from inside and outside the country. UAE nationals represented 76% of the total applicants, while other nationalities submitted 24% of the applications. Additionally, 71% of applicants are of those who have completed their studies and applied for jobs. Meanwhile, the remaining 29% of the applicants are school students. As for the applicants’ gender, the percentage of female applicants was 52% as compared to 48% of males.
H.E. Reem Bint Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Minister of State for International Cooperation and the Chairperson of the National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals, expressed her pride of the youth of the UAE and their interest in the file of SDGs.
She added: “The participation of young people in the development of policies and plans is an embodiment of our leadership vision for the future of the UAE, its sons, and daughters, and its keenness that young people have a greater role and close association with everything related to sustainable economic and social development in the United Arab Emirates.”
She also stated that the Youth Advisory Council for Sustainable Development goals will play a significant role in raising awareness about the efforts of various government agencies and private sector institutions in the country to achieve the SDGs 2030, as well as help in creating opportunities for advancing youth visions and ideas which support human and sustainable development in and outside the country.
H.E. Shamma Bint Suhail bin Faris Al Mazrouei, the Minister of State for Youth Affairs, said: “The Youth Advisory Council for SDGs is a unique opportunity to be involved in an experience of knowledge and acquire many practical skills that enable young people to become leaders of the future, and responsible for supporting the march of social and economic development in the State through achieving the SDGs 2030.”
She added: “Our wise government has invested in the energies of young people and has made taking advantage of their capacities in the process of development, progress and sustainability among its top priorities.”
She further explained: Through young people, we can harness the inherent energies and high potentials that will qualify them to participate in building the UAE and realize its vision, which is to be the best country in the world by 2071.”
H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah, the Vice President of the National Committee for Sustainable Development goals and the Director-General of FCSA, stated: “This Council which is concerned with the SDGs, is an interactive knowledge platform for young people. It is through this Council young people can listen to each other’s opinions and other various and versatile viewpoints from their counterparts from other nationalities and ages. The Youth will will have the opportunity to be involved in the most important contemporary issues that capture the interest of our leadership in the UAE to enhance their role in building the future of the UAE and contribute to the achievement of the agenda of Sustainable Development Goals 2030.”
The applications submitted by young people will be evaluated according to the criteria set by several experts and specialists in the youth files and SDGs of the FCSA.
Based on the evaluation results, the best candidates will be selected for several meetings and personal interviews, to choose 10 of them to be members of the Council.
The members of the Council will have many opportunities to participate actively in a number of events, sessions, seminars and activities in the UAE, most importantly, is the participation in preparing the agenda of conferences and events related to SDGs to be held during 2019 and 2020.
Mahra Hussein Al Ali, the Chairman of the Youth Council of the FCSA, stressed that: “We, the young people all over the world, need opportunities and constructive environments that drive innovation, creativity, and valuable work. This is certainly, what the UAE government is keen to provide us with. TheYouth Advisory Council will provide such environments and opportunities for the Youth towards achieving the SDGs.”
“Indeed, the establishment of this council is an confirmation of the leadership’s confidence in youth, their energies and potentials in promoting construction and productivity, and playing leadership roles in the country’s prosperity and development,” she stated.
It is worth mentioning that the Youth Advisory Council for Sustainable Development Goals marks the cooperation between the FCSA and the Federal Youth Foundation.
The members of the Council will be young people between the age of 15 to 35 years. An equal number of males and females will be selected in support of Goal 5 of SDGs on Gender Equality.
Smart Dubai, FCSA enhance cooperation for UN World Data Forum 2018
- The two sides signed an MoU to showcase Smart Dubai’s world-class initiatives
- Lootah: The partnership agreement reflects our commitment to work together to support the vision of the UAE
- Al Nasser: Dubai has the most comprehensive and ambitious data initiative worldwide
Dubai, June 27, 2018
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority has signed a strategic partnership agreement with Smart Dubai, to enhance cooperation for supporting the 2nd United Nations World Data Forum 2018. The forum will be held in the UAE in October, with more than 1500 experts in the field of data and statistics from different countries of the world expected to attend.
The partnership agreement aims at uniting efforts to contribute to the success of the world’s largest data event, and to use it as a platform to review the qualitative accomplishments achieved by UAE institutions and government entities by employing modern technologies to support the development and prosperity of the community.
The agreement was signed at the headquarters of the Federal Authority for Competitiveness and Statistics in Dubai by H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director General, and Chairman of the Organising Committee of the UN World Data Forum 2018, along with HE Younus Al Nasser, Assistant Director General, Smart Dubai, and CEO, Dubai Data Establishment, in the presence of the accompanying delegates from both entities.
"The combination of efforts and effective cooperation among all parties will have a significant impact on the success of hosting the United Nations World Data Forum 2018, consolidating the UAE’s leading position as a global destination for world-class events," said H.E. Abdulla Nasser Lootah. “This agreement with Smart Dubai underlines our commitment to uniting efforts with various government entities to translate our wise leadership’s vision in achieving the goals of sustainable development according to data-driven plans and strategies.”
"The forum will provide a unique opportunity to utilize experiences, review best practices, exchange ideas and discuss the latest technologies related to statistical fields. This provides an ideal platform to review the achievements of Dubai in its quest to be the smartest city in the world, based on the directives of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, by developing holistic solutions that will drive sustainable development and support the well-being of society."
H.E. Younus Al Naser said: “"Our leadership’s vision has elevated our role to a global level, and any initiative we develop has an impact on global trends. This applies to “Dubai Data”, one of the most comprehensive and ambitious initiatives in the world. Our leadership sees data as the oil for the future, which makes Dubai the perfect venue for hosting the 2018 UN World Data Forum. The forum will provide an opportunity to inform the world of what we have achieved in a record time in terms of data as a tool to empower the future, as well as the opportunity to exchange experiences and ideas with the global experts participating in the event. "
"The partnership agreement is part of our keenness to translate the national plans, including the UAE 2071 Centennial Plan, due to the strategic role that the data will play in transforming our country to be the best in the world. We will use our expertise to ensure the event’s success, which is an accomplishment to our country, complementing its pursuit of a knowledge-based economy.” H.E. added. “While the world is still exploring the future potential of data, we will showcase our achievements such as the Dubai Pulse, which is a world-first, being a future tool for building effective – and user-friendly human experience. "
The agreement stipulates the consolidation of visions and strategies, developing practical approaches aimed at building and exchanging experiences and enhancing technical capacities. It aims at achieving mutual goals, visions, policies, plans and strategic programs to develop a smart statistical system that will serve as an example for the world, and provide information and knowledge to meet the needs of both entities while supporting sustainable development plans at all levels.
In partnership with the Ministry of Community Development and National Statistical Centers
Household Income and Expenditure Survey 2019 is Announced
- The survey covers more than 20,000 households in the country in the largest socio-economic statistical project
- The fieldwork will take one year and cover all seven Emirates
- 350 field researchers will be supported by advanced statistical tools
20 December 2018 – Dubai, UAE
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority announced the official launch of the 2019 Household Income and Expenditure Survey at a press conference today. The announcement was made by HE Hessa bint Isa Buhamaid, Minister of Community Development and the UAE and was attended by HE Abdullah Nasser Lootah, Director General of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority. Also present at the event was HE Humaid Rashid Humaid Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the Executive Council of Umm Al Quwain, HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi , Director of Sharjah Department of Statistics and Community Development, HE Ahmad Abdulla Al Suwaidi, Director General, Statistics Center – Abu Dhabi, HE Arif Obaid Al Muhairi, Executive Director, Dubai Statistics Center, HE Dr. Ibrahim Saad, Director of Fujairah Statistics Center, Dr Ibrahim Akoum, Executive Director, Ras Al Khaimah Center for Statistics and Studies and Mrs Hessa Zayed, Fieldwork Manager, Ajman Statistics and Competitiveness Center.
During the press conference, HE Hessa bint Isa Buhamaid announced the launch of the survey’s fieldwork that will be targeting more than 20,000 Emirati and non-Emirati families distributed across the seven emirates. Her Excellency said that the UAE family has been and will remain the focus of the Ministry of Community Development and all government agencies for decades and until this very moment. This focus, she added, will grow further in the future in accordance with the directives of the UAE leadership. Her Excellence also noted “The happiness of the UAE community and ensuring prosperity and sustainable development is the focus of our attention, which is why we work with the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority and all national statistical centers on the Household Income and Expenditure Survey Project.”
“We recognize the importance of this survey because it provides data and statistics that are an accurate reflection of the income and expenditure levels at a household level in the country. Thus, decision makers will be able to utilize the data produced by the survey to design, launch and implement various impactful social and economic programs aimed at improving all aspects of life for individuals and families such as housing, education and health; reiterating the UAE’s status as a destination for happiness and prosperity,” Added HE Buhmaid.
Her Excellency also stressed the importance of the families’ response and cooperation, “Cooperating with with the field researchers is imperative for the success of this important national project.”
HE Abdulla Nasser Lootah, expressed his excitement in launching the Household survey. “We are proud to launch the Household Income and Expenditure Survey 2019. This national project, which is being implemented over a period of one year, reflects the strong cooperation, collaboration and teamwork spirit between the Ministry of Community Development and the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority and all national statistical centers in the UAE,” he added. “This survey is regarded as one of the most importance statistical projects because of the type of data it produces. Data that is crucial for any decision makers who is seeking to develop strategic plans and initiatives that can positivity impact the lives of families in the UAE”
Approximately 350 field operators, consisting of observers, supervisors, researchers and experts spread across all emirates, will be working on the project. This number does not include the office staff providing support at the FCSA and national statistics office.
All field teams attended intensive training and are equipped with latest advanced field tools and methodologies such as geo-spatial positioning systems, mobile applications on handheld devices, and other advanced techniques and modern statistical methods to ensure accuracy and quality of results.
| Emirate | Sample Familes per Emirates | Percentage |
| Abu Dhabi | 8784 | 42% |
| Dubai | 3816 | 18% |
| Sharjah | 2304 | 11% |
| Ajman | 1632 | 8% |
| Umm Al Quwain | 1248 | 6% |
| Ras Al Khaima | 1632 | 8% |
| Fujairah | 1296 | 6% |
| Total | 20712 | 100% |
Table (1) Sample breakdown per Emirate
The survey will help extract more than 65 indicators such as the basket of goods and services, consumer price indices, cost of living index, and price indices to help assess the level, direction and structure of the economic well-being of families.
The survey also provides accurate information on the demographic, social and economic characteristics on the components of society, including gender, age, nationality, educational level, marital status, labor force, occupation, economic activity, employment status and others.
The survey helps to update the base years of statistical indicators, such as inflation rates, as the periodicity of survey implementation extends to five years, providing seasonal coverage of household income and expenditure rates.
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