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DATA FOR A BETTER FUTURE
- 35% reduction in the UAE’s consumption of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) over the past decade.
- The reduction reflects the UAE’s commitment to the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol on ozone-depleting substances.
- The UAE is among the first countries to fulfill its commitment to fully ban consumption of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons since 2010.
The United Arab Emirates has successfully outpaced the internationally set timeline for the gradual phasing out of ozone-depleting substances, reaffirming its leading role in environmental action at both the national and global levels. The UAE has successfully banned the use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons since 2010 and has achieved a 35% reduction in hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) consumption over the past ten years.
Latest figures from the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC) highlight that the consistent progress in curbing the use of substances that harm the ozone layer reflects the UAE’s commitment to their gradual phase-out. These substances cause harm to the ozone layer, and their reductions demonstrate the UAE’s steadfast commitment to the global framework of agreements and protocols aimed at eliminating such substances within set timelines, with a complete phase-out scheduled for 2040.
The UAE has been a pioneer in supporting global efforts to protect the ozone layer, having joined the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol in 1989, including all its amendments, such as the Kigali Amendment of 2016, which aims to reduce the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), substances that do not deplete the ozone layer but contribute to global warming.
In line with these commitments, the UAE has progressively eliminated ozone-depleting chemicals, including chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons such as Halon 1211, and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), while initiating reductions in the use of HFCs in accordance with the Kigali Amendment.
The UAE has further enacted clear legislation regulating the trade and use of hazardous chemicals, including precise requirements for storage, transport, and safe handling, to ensure the protection of the environment and public health.
The UAE continuously collaborates with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), regularly submitting progress reports on fulfilling its international commitments, and actively participating in the global Montreal Protocol meetings, reflecting its steadfast commitment to joint global environmental action.
Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)
According to the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC), baseline consumption of HCFCs under the Montreal Protocol is calculated based on the average annual production or use during a defined reference period. UAE data shows that in 2015, consumption reached 473.90 tons measured in ozone-depleting potential (ODP) terms; already below the internationally required 10% reduction from the baseline of 557.1 tons. By 2020, UAE consumption had dropped to 353.59 tons, representing a 35% decrease.
From 2021 to 2024, the UAE continued to reduce HCFCs consumption, reflecting its ongoing efforts to meet international requirements within the set global timeframe and achieve the 2025 target of 67.5% reduction, ultimately leading to the full phase-out by 2040.
The UAE has achieved a new milestone by entering the list of the world’s top 10 countries for the first time in the World Talent Ranking (WTR) 2025, issued by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Lausanne. Among 69 global economies assessed, the UAE ranked ninth worldwide advancing eight places compared to its position last year.
In the latest edition of the report, the UAE outperformed several advanced nations in talent competitiveness, including Austria, Canada, Finland, Germany, and Norway. This leap reflects the UAE’s pioneering position in implementing ambitious development policies, the effectiveness of its national strategies for attracting global talent and expertise, the advanced infrastructure’s readiness to support business and innovation, and its strong international appeal that has made the country a preferred destination for living, working, and investing.
According to the report, the UAE achieved a score of 77.86, securing the first place globally in five competitiveness criteria and ranking among the top 10 worldwide in 15 criteria across the main factors. The country is placed first regionally and globally in the “Readiness” factor, which measures the availability of skills and competencies in the labor market. It also ranked 12th worldwide in the “Appeal” factor, which reflects the ability to attract global talent, and moving up six places from its 2024 ranking in the “Investment and Development” factor, which measures national talent development.
UAE Leads in Global Talent Criteria
The UAE recorded exceptional progress in the 2025 report, achieving remarkable results in several sub-criteria that positioned it among the most competitive nations worldwide. The country ranked first globally in criteria such as collected personal income tax, labor force growth, international expertise, competent senior managers and student mobility inbound.
It also ranked second globally in foreign highly skilled personnel and finance skills; third globally in pupil-teacher ratio in secondary education, health infrastructure, availability of skilled labor, and graduates in sciences; fifth globally in primary and secondary education; sixth globally in apprenticeships; and eighth globally in brain drain and quality of life. These achievements underscore the UAE’s position as a global hub for talent, innovation, and competitiveness.
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC) stated that this achievement reflects the forward-looking vision of the UAE leadership and its commitment to building a competitive knowledge-based economy that keeps pace with global transformations. It enables both national and international talent to contribute to sustainable growth, while affirming the UAE’s readiness to meet the evolving needs of the labor market through a competitive environment capable of attracting and retaining the world’s best talent.
The FCSC further emphasized that the UAE’s entry into the world’s top 10 in the WTR for the first time highlights the resilience of its national economy, its ability to adapt to global changes, and its focus on investing in human capital. It stressed that developing national talent, attracting global expertise, and building advanced human resource systems are fundamental pillars for strengthening the country’s global competitiveness and leadership.
This milestone demonstrates the UAE’s steady progress in consolidating its status as a leading global destination for talent and expertise, guided by visionary leadership and ambitious policies aimed at building a diversified, resilient economy capable of competing on the world stage and contributing to a more sustainable and advanced global future.
The World Talent Ranking is published annually by IMD to measure countries’ ability to develop, attract, nurture, and retain talent, based on 31 criteria:17 drawn from executive opinion surveys and 14 derived from statistical data covering more than 6,000 senior executives worldwide.
The United Arab Emirates has achieved a historic milestone, with non-oil activities contributing 77.3% to the real GDP in Q1 2025. According to preliminary estimates released by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC), the UAE’s real GDP grew by 3.9%, year-on-year to reach AED 455 billion, while non-oil GDP surged by 5.3% to AED 352 billion, marking the highest level ever recorded in the history of the UAE. On the other hand, oil-related activities contributed 22.7% during the same period.
H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, stated that the initial figures released by FCSC reflect the robustness, resilience, and exceptional growth trajectory of the UAE’s economy, its ability to sustain extraordinary growth, and the success of the country’s holistic development model. H.E. emphasized that these results reflect investors’ confidence and the global recognition of the UAE’s business and investment ecosystem, which has become a global benchmark for advanced economic policies and pro-growth legislative frameworks.
“Guided by the vision of our wise leadership, the contribution of non-oil activities to real GDP has reached an all-time high of 77.3%; a key milestone in the history of the UAE. This reflects the momentum gained by the UAE’s economic diversification and demonstrates the effectiveness of national strategies to build a knowledge- and innovation-driven economy, fully aligned with the objectives of the “We the UAE 2031” vision, which aims to raise the UAE’s GDP to AED 3 trillion by the next decade,” H.E. added.
Meanwhile, H.E. Hanan Mansour Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, emphasised that these results showcase the efficiency of the UAE’s economic model and the government’s success in implementing the leadership directives to drive sustainable sectoral development. “Our relentless efforts towards economic diversification continue to drive the expansion and resilience of the national economy,” H.E. noted. “Non-oil GDP growth exceeding 5% showcases our commitment to building an advanced, technology- and innovation-enabled economy that empowers businesses and entrepreneurs to transform their ideas into thriving ventures, adding momentum to the UAE’s dynamic economic landscape,” she added.
Leading other sectors in growth during Q1 2025, the manufacturing sector has expanded by 7.7% compared to the same period in 2024. It is followed by finance, insurance, and construction at 7.0% growth each, while real estate activities rose by 6.6% and trade by 3.0%.
In terms of contribution to the UAE’s GDP, the trade sector topped the list with 15.6% of non-oil GDP, followed by finance & insurance at 14.6%, manufacturing at 13.4%, construction at 12.0%, and real estate at 7.4%.
Statistics from the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC) revealed exceptional growth in the UAE’s aviation sector, with the total number of passengers passing through the country’s airports exceeding one billion between 2015 and 2024. Aircraft movements, arrivals and departures combined, exceeded 6.4 million during the same period.
According to FCSC’s latest report, the UAE ranked first globally in Air Transport Quality Index and placed among the world’s top ten in five additional indicators. These achievements reflect the forward-looking vision and directives of the leadership in strengthening this vital sector, enhancing its competitiveness regionally and globally, and consolidating its role as a cornerstone of national economic growth and sustainability.
H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), stated: “The outstanding results achieved by the UAE’s civil aviation sector over the past decade affirm the success of the policies, strategies, and national initiatives adopted under the wise directives of our leadership. These results not only anticipate the future but actively shape it and deliver its achievements. They reinforce the UAE’s global standing on the aviation and travel map, highlight the sector’s effective contribution to economic growth and competitiveness, and demonstrate the nation’s pioneering role in establishing an advanced, efficient, and sustainable aviation ecosystem that integrates technological innovation with the highest standards of safety and service quality.”
He added: “Our national efforts continue to focus on developing aviation infrastructure, pioneering projects, and related activities, while strengthening cooperation with partners and relevant entities at local and international levels. The aim is to provide exceptional travel experiences that enhance the UAE’s appeal to passengers and air cargo from around the world, diversify aviation services and products, build national human capital, and encourage the entry of Emirati talent into the sector alongside increased investment. These efforts align with the 10th Principle of the UAE Charter of Economic Principles, which seeks to establish the country as the world’s leading logistics hub and a central axis for global aviation, transportation, and human mobility.”
Advanced Level of Growth
For her part, H.E. Hanan Mansour Ahli Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre affirmed that the results achieved by the UAE’s aviation sector over the past decade reflect the advanced level of the industry and its associated sectors. They embody the leadership’s vision of transforming the country into a global hub and a vital link between continents.
She noted that UAE airports welcomed more than one billion passengers over the past 10 years and recorded over 6.4 million aircraft movements. The UAE’s high rankings across various global aviation competitiveness indicators are the culmination of decades of dedicated effort and continuous monitoring of this vital sector’s growth.
Global Leadership
The aviation sector’s achievements have strengthened the UAE’s competitiveness, earning it global and regional leadership across indicators measuring air transport efficiency and quality. The UAE ranked first worldwide in the Air Transport Quality Index according to the 2025 World Competitiveness Yearbook by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD). It also ranked third globally in both the Efficiency of Air Transport Services and Infrastructure Index and Available Seat Kilometers per week, according to the 2024 Travel & Tourism Development Index by the World Economic Forum. In the same report, the UAE ranked eighth in the number of operating airlines and tenth in the number of air service agreements.
Record-Breaking Growth
Data from the FCSC showed that passenger traffic through UAE airports rose from 114.8 million in 2015 to 147.8 million in 2024, a growth rate of 28.7%. The cumulative total over the ten-year period exceeded one billion passengers (arrivals, departures, and transit). Aircraft movements increased to more than 800,000 in 2024, with the ten-year total exceeding 6.4 million.
Passenger numbers climbed from 114.8 million in 2015 to 124.3 million in 2016 marking a 8.2% growth, and then to 126.5 million in 2017 with a 1.8% growth. In 2018, they surpassed 129 million reaching a 2% growth, before slightly declining to 127.9 million in 2019 amid a global slowdown in travel. Numbers fell sharply in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with traffic dropping to 38.3 million passengers, reaching a 70% decline, the steepest in the history of global aviation.
Recovery and Expansion
The sector began to recover in 2021, with passenger numbers rising to 45.9 million (19.6% growth). In 2022, growth surged by 120%, surpassing 101 million passengers. The upward trend continued in 2023, when traffic rose 31.2% to 132.5 million passengers, exceeding pre-pandemic levels and making the UAE one of the fastest-recovering aviation markets worldwide. In 2024, passenger numbers reached 147.8 million, up 11.5% from 2023 marking a new all-time record.
Passenger Traffic by Emirate
Statistics showed that Dubai International Airport handled the majority of passengers over the past decade, with 782.2 million travelers. Abu Dhabi’s airports followed with 200.5 million, Sharjah International Airport with 101.5 million, Ras Al Khaimah Airport with over 4 million, Fujairah Airport with 118,100, and other local airports with 46,600 passengers.
Aircraft Movements
The UAE’s aviation growth also extended to aircraft traffic, with total arrivals and departures reaching 6.4 million between 2015 and 2024. This underscores the pivotal role of UAE airports as global gateways capable of accommodating ever-growing demand.
Aircraft movements increased from 739,800 in 2015 to 754,600 in 2016 reaching a 2% growth. During the pandemic, movements dropped to 331,500 in 2020 before rebounding to 428,100 in 2021 and 614,300 in 2022. In 2023, movements reached 725,600, surpassing pre-pandemic levels, and rose further to over 800,000 in 2024; an unprecedented figure in the UAE’s aviation history, representing 10.4% growth year-on-year.
HE Abdullah Nasser Lootah:
- The UAE views youth not just as beneficiaries of development, but as essential partners in shaping and leading efforts towards a sustainable future.
- The nation is committed to building a more inclusive and sustainable world by 2045, guided by proactive, forward-thinking strategies.
Voices for 2045: Youth Shaping the Future session aimed to:
- Engage young participants of the 2025 High-Level Political Forum in envisioning the world beyond 2030;
- Gather youth aspirations and ideas for the 2045 XDGs Vision, a new global approach to comprehensive and sustainable development;
- Encourage youth change-makers to reflect, connect, and draw inspiration from innovative ideas for a more sustainable and inclusive future.
August 04, 2025 — As part of the UAE delegation’s participation in the United Nations Sustainable Development Forum 2025, organized by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the General Secretariat of the National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) hosted a dedicated youth session titled Voices for 2045: Youth Shaping the Future. Held at the Permanent Mission of the United Arab Emirates to the United Nations, the session brought together youth leaders and global change-makers, including members of the UN General Assembly’s Major Group for Children and Youth.
The session engaged young participants in envisioning the world beyond 2030 and empowered them to shape the future of sustainable development. It fostered dialogue on youth aspirations and ideas for the Extended Sustainable Development Goals (XDGs 2045), a global vision for inclusive growth introduced by the Secretariate of the National Committee on SDGs at the 2023 World Governments Summit. The platform enabled youth change-makers to share experiences, connect with peers, and exchange ideas for a more inclusive and resilient future.
Youth Empowerment
His Excellency Abdullah Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals, stated: “The UAE firmly believes that youth are not merely beneficiaries of development pathways but essential partners in shaping and leading them towards the future
He emphasized that the session reflects this philosophy by giving youth a transparent and effective platform to express their visions and challenges. HE Lootah added, “Shaping the vision of the post-2030 sustainable development agenda requires open dialogue, collective participation, and bold ideas that keep pace with global changes. It is not enough to listen to youth as inspirational voices; their visions must be treated as essential inputs in policy-making and prioritization.”
Three Main Themes
40 participants from the UN Major Group for Children and Youth contributed diverse perspectives on the ambitious XDGs 2045 vision. Discussions focused on three core themes – empathy, passion, and action – underscoring the role of youth in building a better future.
Participants responded to three key questions via an online survey, offering insights on their motivations, desired transformative changes, challenges faced, and proposed solutions to enhance youth contributions to sustainable development. Their responses underscored key priorities including empowering youth and ensuring their active involvement in policy and strategy development; strengthening international cooperation and promoting innovation; guaranteeing universal access to quality education and healthcare; and safeguarding the environment and natural resources for future generations.
The session Voices for 2045: Youth Shaping the Future reflects the UAE’s commitment to supporting global efforts to achieve the SDGs and to enhancing the role of youth as key partners in the development of a more inclusive and sustainable world by 2045.
The United Nations High-Level Political Forum
The United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) is the UN’s main platform for sustainable development matters. Since its establishment in 2012, it has played a central role in tracking and reviewing countries’ progress toward implementing the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.
Delegations participating in the Forum conduct assessments of achievements made so far toward the SDGs, with in-depth reviews of five key goals: SDG 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages; SDG 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls; SDG 8: Promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all; SDG 14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources; and SDG 17: Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development.
The Government Experience Exchange Programme (GEEP), under the UAE Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, launched a Global Ideation Lab in collaboration with New York University (NYU). The Ideation Lab was held alongside the UAE delegation’s participation at the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development 2025, organized by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs at the UN Headquarters in New York City. It brought together leading experts, academics, UN officials, diplomats, policymakers, and university students to explore new prospects in government sector innovation and global cooperation.
The session drew participation from 26 ministers, experts, academics, and UN officials, including Annemarie Hou, Executive Director of the UN Office of Partnerships, and Patrick Paul Walsh, Vice President of Education and Director of the SDG Academy at the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN). Attendees also included sustainability officials and diplomats from countries such as Switzerland, Portugal, Ireland, Serbia, Paraguay, Bahrain, Uzbekistan, Qatar, Kingdom of Eswatini, and others. Members of the UAE delegation to the HLPF, officials from NYU’s administrative and academic bodies, and 30 students from NYU, Stanford, and the University of Pennsylvania also participated.
Global Ideas Sandbox
The Ideation Lab helps build a global ideas sandbox and provides a creative open space. It highlighted the developmental role of comprehensive initiatives supporting global partnerships, particularly the UAE’s GEEP, which serves as an incubator for scalable cross-border partnerships and an effective knowledge sharing platform.
UAE Commitment to Expanding Partnerships
His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, stated that the UAE’s knowledge-sharing approach is comprehensive, leveraging contributions across sectors locally and globally. This approach provides an environment for creating innovative ideas and impactful development solutions.
“In the UAE, we have successfully built a pioneering model for international cooperation based on knowledge exchange with countries and governments, and GEEP is a crucial part of this endeavor,” Lootah said. “We are committed to involving various sectors, particularly academia, and cooperating with everyone in developing solutions to urgent global challenges, including developmental challenges, and expanding frameworks for sharing, transferring, and exchanging best government practices to help achieve sustainable development.”
He added: “The joint Global Ideation Lab between GEEP and NYU exemplifies the collaborative approach we adopt in the UAE to develop best practices that enhance readiness for present and future opportunities.”
Challenge and Solution Model
The Global Ideation Lab adopted a collaborative approach between GEEP and NYU, centered on posing challenges, linking academic insights with practical governance, and involving various stakeholders in designing partnership-based and scalable solutions.
The session outcomes contributed to aligning knowledge inputs with policy, empowering stakeholders to participate in developing innovative solutions to urgent governance challenges and accelerating progress towards the 2030 SDGs.
UN High-Level Political Forum
The HLPF on Sustainable Development is the UN’s central platform for reviewing and advancing SDGs. Established in 2012, the forum plays a pivotal role in monitoring national and international progress on the 2030 Agenda.
Participating delegations assess progress toward the SDGs, with this year’s forum featuring in-depth reviews of five priority goals: SDG3 (ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages); SDG5 (achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls); SDG8 (promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all); SDG14 (conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas, and marine resources for sustainable development); and SDG17 (strengthening and revitalizing the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development).
The UAE has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to supporting international efforts to achieve inclusive and sustainable development, emphasising its dedication to building effective global partnerships that promote stability, accelerate prosperity, and advance the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and beyond. This vision is guided by principles of international cooperation, future foresight, and a human-centric development approach.
This came at the conclusion of the UAE’s expanded participation in the 2025 High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development, organised by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) at UN headquarters in New York City. The forum witnessed broad international participation from government representatives, international organisations, and civil society institutions.
The UAE delegation included several government leaders and officials representing the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs; Ministry of Interior; Ministry of Investment; Government Experience Exchange Programme; Secretariat of the National Committee on the SDGs; as well as representatives from the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD); Noor Dubai Foundation; and Dubai Chambers.
UAE A Leading Model in Development Cooperation and Global Partnerships
His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on SDGs, affirmed that the UAE has established itself as a leading model in international development cooperation. This model is built on sustaining positive impact, enhancing experience exchange, and developing innovative solutions to address global challenges.
He stated: “At the forum, we showcased pioneering national development initiatives that highlight the importance of strategic partnerships in accelerating the achievement of the SDGs. These included the 2045 XSDGs Report, which outlines development foresight for the next two decades, and the Government Experience Exchange Programme. We also held meetings focused on advancing multilateral cooperation to support the development of innovative solutions across key areas such as health, economic growth, the future of work, biodiversity, and global stability.”
Lootah confirmed that preparations are already underway for the UAE’s 2026 Voluntary National Review, which will assess progress towards the 2030 Agenda. The review underscores the UAE’s firm commitment to transparency and accountability, providing a comprehensive analysis of challenges and opportunities while identifying future development priorities. The process will involve participation from government, private, and civil society sectors to ensure unified efforts, based on the UAE’s ambitious vision for a sustainable and inclusive future driven by innovation, sustainability, and human development.
He also highlighted the UAE’s preparations to host the 2026 United Nations Water Conference taking place in December, which aims to strengthen global action to ensure the sustainable availability of water for all.
Enhancing Collaboration and Joint Action
A statement issued by the UAE delegation reaffirmed the country’s ongoing focus on strengthening international cooperation, knowledge and expertise exchange, and the importance of promoting sustainable practices across climate action, economic, social, and human development. The statement emphasised the UAE’s commitment to joint action to drive balanced growth that prioritises human and environmental protection, ensuring a positive development impact for communities worldwide.
Shaping Tomorrow & Innovative Events
The delegation organised a series of high-profile events that drew significant international interest, including the Sustainable Development Goals Exhibition for 2030 and 2045 at the UN Headquarters under the theme “Shaping Tomorrow: UAE Leadership for a Sustainable Future.” The exhibition served as a global platform to highlight the UAE’s role and raise awareness on the urgency of accelerating sustainable development.
Engagements also included a dedicated international session hosted by the Government Experience Exchange Programme to promote knowledge-sharing and expand partnerships, spanning nearly 50 countries and six international organisations, in support of the UAE’s vision for advancing international cooperation and strategic partnerships.
Report and Foresight Study
As part of its commitment to sharing knowledge, expertise, and valuable data, the UAE launched the 2025 edition of the 2045 XSDGs Report at the forum titled “Envisioning 2045: Inclusive Pathways to Sustainable Development.”
The delegation also presented the results of the latest 2045 XSDGs Global Survey, involving participants from 55 countries across various age groups and academic disciplines. The survey offered key recommendations and comprehensive perspectives on sustainable development for the next 20 years.
In collaboration with the Consulate General of the UAE in New York; Permanent Mission of the United Arab Emirates to the United Nations in New York; and Noor Dubai Foundation, the National Committee on SDGs also hosted a high-level roundtable to explore the role of healthcare innovation in accelerating SDG 3 on Good Health and Well-being. The session highlighted the importance of scaling and expanding access to health innovation worldwide.
Global Councils for SDGs
The delegation presented the UAE’s Global Councils on Sustainable Development Goals, launched during the World Governments Summit 2018. The initiative acts as a dynamic network that brings together decision-makers from government, international organisations, academia, and the private sector to exchange experiences and best practices aimed at accelerating the achievement of the SDGs.
Women’s Empowerment and Child Welfare
The Secretariat of the UAE’s National Committee on SDGs and the Consulate General of the UAE in New York also organised a high-impact session on accelerating innovation to advance gender balance and sustain progress in the post-2030. The discussion focused on closing the digital gender gap, enhancing care and empowerment systems, and promoting women’s leadership roles.
Sustainable Economic Growth
The UAE delegation hosted a high-level roundtable titled “Beyond 2030: Reimagining Economic Growth for People and Planet,” exploring new dimensions of growth beyond traditional metrics and market indicators.
Two key sessions were also held, addressing the role of economic diplomacy in promoting global and societal stability and the integration of social and economic development priorities.
The Ministry of Interior shared impactful results from its cross-border collaborations aimed at enhancing environmental sustainability, most notably operation “Green Shield”; a joint effort between the UAE, Brazil, Peru, Colombia, and Ecuador to preserve the Amazon Basin’s biodiversity in Latin America.
Driving the SDGs Through Partnerships
The delegation led several high-level sessions focused on accelerating SDG implementation through partnerships and held approximately 48 bilateral and multilateral meetings with organisations, institutions, global programmes, and government representatives to reinforce international cooperation for inclusive development.
The UAE also participated in the Science Day, held as part of the HLPF on Sustainable Development.
The UN High-Level Political Forum
The HLPF on Sustainable Development serves as the United Nations’ central platform for topics related to sustainable development. Since its establishment in 2012, the forum plays a pivotal role in monitoring national and international progress on the 2030 Agenda.
Dubai, September 8, 2018
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) has signed strategic partnership agreements with statistics centres across emirates to coordinate efforts to support the UN World Data Forum 2018, set to be held in Dubai on October 22-24, 2018.
Now in its second edition, the Forum will welcome 1,500 prominent experts in the field of data and statistics from around the world, to showcase the UAE’s pioneering experience in collecting, analysing and benefiting from big data.
The agreements were signed at the FCSA headquarters in Dubai by representatives from the various statistics centres, including Statistics Centre − Abu Dhabi (SCAD); Dubai Statistic Center; the Sharjah Department of Statistics and Community Development; and the Ajman Statistics and Competitiveness Centre.
His Excellency Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director General and Chairman of the Organising Committee of the UN World Data Forum 2018, said: “The Authority is committed to fostering cooperation and consolidating all efforts to ensure a successful second edition for the UN World Data Forum. Furthermore, we are working to develop efficient systems for statistics in the UAE and highlight the achievements registered in the sector. These partnerships we are forging with statistics centres across the country will help introduce all of us to international success stories and best practices in statistics and data, which, in turn, will help us position the UAE as a leading international hub for knowledge.”
For his part, H.E. Rashid Lahej Nasser Saeed Al Mansouri, Chairman of the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi, said: “The Forum’s importance lies in providing an ideal platform for sharing experiences and identifying best practices in the statistics sector; it offers an opportunity to showcase the UAE’s experience in harnessing advanced technologies and channelling them towards building national capacities and honing statistical skillsets. All of this will ultimately serve the government’s plans to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promote the welfare of the community, and ensure a better future for our coming generations.”
H.E. Arif Al Muhairi, Executive Director of Dubai Statistics Center (DSC), added: “The UN World Data Forum is a global event that will be hosted this year by the UAE. We are proud of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority and its commendable efforts to win the bid and host the Forum. With this strategic partnership now in place, we will be sparing no effort to support the Authority and ensure success of the event, which we are honoured to be part of, and especially that it will now carry the name of the UAE.”
H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Thani, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Statistics and Community Development, underlined the importance of the Forum, saying: “The UN World Data Forum is an ideal platform for sharing experiences, transferring knowledge and building partnerships to enhance data at the regional and global levels. The Sharjah Department of Statistics and Community Development is taking part in the event to assert its commitment to partnership and cooperation with the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority, as well as to ensuring that the Forum comes out with innovative results that positively influence the future of the data sector.”
Meanwhile, H.E. Dr Hajar Saeed Al Hubaishi, Executive Director of Ajman Statistics and Competitiveness Centre, revealed that the Centre will be launching a number of data-related initiatives, projects and workshops, noting: “Hosting the second edition of the Forum adds to the UAE’s commendable track record of achievements on a regional and international level. Several developed European nations came forward to host the major event – countries such as Finland and Switzerland. Nevertheless, the United Nations selected the UAE to be the host, which reflects the Emirates’ dedication to excellence; and the bid submitted by the FCSA undoubtedly played a major role in securing the nomination.”
On a similar note, Dr Ibrahim Saad, Director of the Fujairah Statistics Center, said: “The success of the UAE’s bid to host the UN World Data Forum 2018 asserts its advanced position and high competitiveness in terms of hosting international conferences. It also highlights the growing importance of data for governments around the world, which calls for further developing data collection and processing to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals 2030.”
Reiterating the significance of these agreements, Dr Ibrahim Akum, Director of Center for Statistics and Studies in Ras Al Khaimah, said: “The UN World Data Forum is growing all the more significant seeing as we live in the era of the digital revolution. Statistics – and data, in general – has become a focal point of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and a catalyst to the transformations taking place around the world. Those with an interest in statistics and data will be setting their sights on the UAE to discover the latest development in the data sector, set to be revealed at the prominent international event where local and international speakers will mingle with pioneers in statistics and data.”
H.E. Humaid Rashid Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the Executive Council of Umm Al Quwain, said: “We are proud to be coordinating and joining hands with the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority and offering our support to ensure success and excellence in organising this global Forum. We are confident that the event will, without doubt, serve as a prominent platform to share insight into practical ways for optimising data, as well as the best ways to collect and analyse it.”
The agreements signed between the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority and statistics centres in all seven emirates seek to strengthen partnerships among all signatories to gather support for the UN World Data Forum 2018, and then benefit from its outcomes and takeaways in various sectors.
Dubai, September 3 2018
The UAE’s National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which includes 17 federal entities, recently held its third meeting for 2018, primarily discussing preparations for the upcoming second edition of the UN World Data Forum, set to be held in Dubai on October 22-24, 2018.
The meeting was attended by Her Excellency Hessa Buhumaid, Minister of Community Development, and H.E. Jameela Al Muhairi, Minister of State for Public Education, both of whom applauded the Committee for its efforts and preparations for the Forum, stressing the necessity of ensuring governance when implementing SDGs and of harmonising efforts among Committee members, as per the directives of the UAE’s leadership. Their Excellencies reiterated their support for the member entities’ efforts to provide the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) with accurate and current data.
“This Committee was formed in 2017, and in its one year and eight months of existence, it has registered outstanding achievements,” said H.E. Buhumaid, expressing her delight at the fact that the representatives of the 17 member entities are young Emiratis with great enthusiasm to serve their country.
For her part, H.E. Al Muhairi said: “We all work together to promote our country and continuously enhance its international standing in terms of sustainable development, and the UN World Data Forum presents an ideal platform to showcase our national achievements. The UAE has progressed from 77th place to 60th on the SDG Index; this is testament to the exceptional leadership of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals 2030.”
Thanking Their Excellencies the Ministers for their attendance and contribution to the meeting, H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director General and Chairman of the Organising Committee of the UN World Data Forum 2018, said: “Our work with the member entities of the Committee centres around the National Agenda’s metrics, which, in turn, offer the necessary support to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals 2030. Furthermore, we concentrate on data and statistics, which are essential for driving success at the Government level till 2021 and beyond.”
The 17 Committee members were thoroughly introduced to the upcoming UN World Data Forum (www.unwdf.ae) set to be held in the UAE under the theme “Better Data for Better Generations”. The event will be hosting more than 80 sessions that feature over 100 speakers from all around the world.
The team organising the Forum reiterated its potential as a platform for forging international partnerships and closer relations with the private sector – a key step for implementing SDGs. The meeting then moved on to a case study on DP World and its progress in achieving SDGs locally, regionally and internationally.
On the same note, the team outlined the progress made with regards to the Global Leadership Councils for SDGs initiative, announced at the World Government Summit, where work is underway to expand these Councils.
The National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals holds periodic meetings at the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority’s headquarters in Dubai.
Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority and Mastercard Sign Memorandum of Understanding
Dubai-UAE, 30 May 2017
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) has signed a MoU with Mastercard, a leading technology company in the global payments industry. The MoU aims to provide both parties with a strategic platform for the exchange of expertise and knowledge, especially in the areas of data and statistics, including big and open data in the UAE.
The agreement was signed by H.E. Abdullah Naser Lootah, Director General of FCSA, and Mr. Khalid Elgibali, Division President, Middle East and North Africa at Mastercard. The two parties agreed to explore various strategic opportunities to develop a joint framework aimed at enhancing capacity in the fields of data and knowledge products and services related to diverse sectors, such as retail, tourism and trade in the UAE. Furthermore, the two parties will examine and analyze purchase patterns and spend behavior, together with the identification of opportunities for the public as well as the private sectors to provide locals and residents with better services and products in view of the increasing demand for such solutions and seasons of high purchasing volumes.
H.E. Abdullah Naser Lootah pointed out: "We are constantly working to further enhance the national statistical ecosystem with all our stakeholders locally and internationally. This lies at the heart of our strategy and endeavors to enhance the UAE’s international competitiveness. I believe there is a great opportunity for the private sector to play a major role in the development of the national statistical system. We are looking forward to Mastercard’s extensive experience and innovation in the area of big and smart data."
Khalid Elgibali shared: "Mastercard has always been keen to establish effective strategic relationships and partnerships with the government sector. We are pleased to sign this MoU with a leading government institution such as the FCSA, with whom we share a common vision and goals for the greater empowerment of societies through the power of big data and by leveraging technologies that will contribute towards positive transformation in the local economy."
As part of its mandate, FCSA aims to create a world-class national statistical system by adopting global standards and expertise, and deploy advanced and innovative technological solutions. "The involvement, cooperation and collaboration of the private sector is fundamental for the success of this collaboration. We look forward to the outcomes of this partnership with Mastercard," concluded H.E. Lootah.
Dubai, August 20, 2018
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) announced the signing of a strategic partnership agreement with Abu Dhabi Ports. The agreement is aimed to support the United Nations (UN) World Data Forum 2018, which will be hosted by the FCSA in Dubai, United Arab Emirates in October this year.
The official partnering ceremony was held at the FCSA headquarters in Dubai, with the agreement signed by HE Mohamed Hassan Ahli, Executive Director of the National Statistics and Data Sector at the FCSA and Abdullah Humaid Al Hamli, Executive Vice President of Corporate Support at Abu Dhabi Ports, in the presence of senior officials from both parties.
"Effective, efficient and accurate data collection improves the performance and efficiency of the logistics sector. It is a vital contributor to sustainable economic development as it leads to the formulation of long-term plans and strategies that support transport and shipping. As well as strengthening the logistics sector’s role as a vital resource for local economies, it is a key factor in maintaining the UAE’s leading position on global competitiveness indicators,” said HE Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director-General and Organising Committee Chairman of the UN World Data Forum 2018.
“The participation of Abu Dhabi Ports in the United Nations World Data Forum is of particular importance as it contributes to highlighting the UAE’s achievements in the use of statistical data and information. The organisation’s inclusion places a spotlight on the development of the UAE’s world-class port sector and showcases its role in meeting the growing demands of maritime transport and logistics," he added.
Mr. Abdullah Humaid Al Hamli, Executive Vice President of Corporate Support at Abu Dhabi Ports, reiterated that the signing of the agreement with the FCSA was in line with the directives of UAE’s wise leadership to encourage all parties to strengthen cooperation to achieve the goals and aspirations of UAE Vision 2021.
“Hosted by the UAE, the United Nations World Data Forum 2018 is a strategic event for government and private entities, universities and experts from around the world, to increase awareness of the UN’s 2030 SDGs. Abu Dhabi Ports is proud to support the forum, which confers numerous benefits to companies and institutions from the public and private sectors, as well as individuals involved in the field of data," Al Hamli said.
HE Mohamed Hassan Ahli, Executive Director of Statistics Data at the FCSA, said: "Data and statistical information are fundamental building blocks that contribute to the development of SDGs, which meet the current and future needs of societies. The United Nations World Data Forum 2018 is a premium platform that promotes the exchange of ideas on the best ways to implement modern technologies and to benefit from the collection of data, statistics and accurate information to achieve SDGs at the local, regional and global levels.”
The agreement was signed to strengthen cooperation frameworks and activate joint action for the forum, which will see the participation of government leaders, policy decision-makers and more than 1,500 global experts and specialists in the field of data and statistics. The world’s most prominent gathering in its field, the UN World Data Forum examines how to improve upon data collection and analysis to achieve the UN’s 2030 Agenda Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The UN World Data Forum 2018 is the world’s most prominent international gathering of data and statistics experts and acts as a scientific incubator to enhance the contribution of data and statistics to the achievement of the 2030 SDGs. The event provides an ideal opportunity to build a broad network of relationships with prestigious corporations, institutions and universities, as well as experts, specialists and data leaders from around the world.
General Secretariat of the National Committee on SDGs Launches First Report on Private Sector Sustainability Initiatives in UAE
Dubai, UAE- 18 August 2019
The Secretariat of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals launched the first report on private sector initiatives for sustainability in UAE titled "Achieving Sustainable Development Goals in the UAE: Private Sector Contributions." Global Strategy Consulting firm, Oliver Wyman developed the report in partnership with the Private Sector Advisory Council on SDGs (PSAC) founded by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA).
The report sheds a spotlight on the efforts exerted by the National Committee on SDGs to serve as a platform for coordination and partnerships through PSAC. It also focuses on the role of private companies in achieving SDGs by means of sharing ideas and practices on the key opportunities and challenges that companies face in their efforts to implement the UAE Agenda 2030.
The initiatives cover various sectors, including renewable energy, real estate, retail, aviation and land, and sea transport services. These initiatives have contributed to the UAE’s efforts to promote sustainability within the private sector and make progress towards achieving the 2030 global agenda of sustainability.
H.E. Abdullah Lootah, Director General of FCSA and Vice-Chair of the National Committee on SDGs and Chair of the PSAC on SDGs, stated: "At a time of multiple drastic and relentless economic, social and technological changes experienced by the world, the public and private sectors partnerships and the achievement of sustainable progress and prosperity for the society of UAE become essential. Based on the initiatives and experiences presented by the report, the UAE has turned out to be a global role model in the governance of SDGs and harnessing the innovative partnerships between the public and private sectors to achieve them."
The report also reviews notable initiatives adopted by the National Committee on SDGs in UAE. The committee is the government team in charge of implementing the 17 SDGs in the UAE and was formed in January 2017 and chaired by Her Excellency Reem Bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation. The committee’s members include 17 federal level government authorities who agreed on a road map for the year 2030. The road map focuses on four key stages, including raising awareness, establishing the foundations, developing policies, reporting the progress achieved, and monitoring the performance.
Greg Rung, Partner at Oliver Wyman, stated: "The ongoing cooperation between the UAE government and the private sector is crucial in boosting the country’s efforts to implement the United Nation’s 17 SDGs successfully."
"Oliver Wyman is proud to collaborate with PSAC for producing this report and partner with the entity to support the UAE government in its commitment to successfully achieving a prosperous and sustainable future for all," added Rung.
Members of PSAC have also drafted a consultative framework used as a formal mechanism to engage the private sector in UAE and move forward in achieving UAE Agenda 2030. Additionally, PSAC developed a strategy to engage the youth, to ensure that development is not only for the youth but also for and through them to further promote and increase their positive contributions as agents of change.
H.E. Abdullah Lootah concluded his statement by stating: "Recognizing that the implementation of SDGs could only get ahead by involving all relevant stakeholders from different government and private sectors, we have pooled resources with the Oliver Wyman team to prepare this important report with sights set to shed light on the efforts of the private sector as a strategic partner of the UAE government. I am proud of the commitment of the members of PSAC and their contributions to supporting the sustainability process in UAE, and the dissemination of such UAE experiences to the global community."
The report showcases the most important sustainability initiatives developed by 12 national and international companies operating in UAE, namely: Dubai Holding Company, Careem, Majid Al Futtaim Group, DP World, EMAAR Group, Al Serkal Group, First Abu Dhabi Bank, Emirates Airline, Multinational Companies Business Group, Dubai Free Zones Council and MASDAR Group.
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