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DATA FOR A BETTER FUTURE
Dubai, September 29, 2018
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) organised a panel discussion on “Future Food Security and the Importance of Data in Addressing Food Challenges”, part of the “Data for a Better Future for Humanity” in the lead-up to the UN World Data Forum 2018, set to be held in Dubai on October 22-24.
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, the Forum brings together high-ranking officials, prominent decision makers, and more than 1,500 experts and specialists in data and statistics from all around the world.
His Excellency Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director General and Chairman of the Forum’s Organising Committee, attended the workshop, along with a number of senior officials, including Essa Abdulrahman Al Hashemi, Head of the Food Security Office at the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs and the Future; and Eng Mohammed Ahmed Al-Dhanhani, Director of the Development and Health Department at the Ministry of Climate Change and the Environment; in addition to executives from statistics centres across the country and several of the FCSA’s strategic partners.
“This workshop is the first in a series of seminars that introduce members of the community to the importance of data and information, and its role in the development of high quality-services that meet their aspirations and improve their quality of life,” said H.E. Lootah. “It also offers a platform for proposals and initiatives that can be presented to participants at the second UN World Data Forum, which is set to be hosted in Dubai next month and will further cement the UAE’s reputation as a massive database and a global leader in embracing innovation and data to achieve the 2030 Agenda’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”
For his part, Essa Abdulrahman Al Hashemi introduced the concept of food security and the UAE’s initiatives in this regard. The UAE realised early on the importance of providing safe and healthy food supplies at reasonable prices, Al Hashemi asserted, citing the projects launched by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founding Father of the UAE, that have guaranteed the country’s impressive score on the Global Food Security Index today. Most notable among these projects were establishing a national food security office in Abu Dhabi and approving a national strategy and system to stock strategic food supplies.
Al-Hashemi went on to affirm that data is a key pillar in the UAE’s ambitious plan to claim the top spot on the Global Food Security Index through initiatives and projects that will incentivise the private sector and entrepreneurs to invest in agricultural projects and embrace the latest technologies in this field.
Statistics and data are at the core of any effective food security system, Al Hashemi reiterated, noting their value and role in developing efficient mechanisms to ensure sustainability and continuous improvement. The most vital of these statistics cover domestic consumption, food waste, regular and groundwater resources and ways to manage them, and crops and ways to cultivate them using modern technology.
The discussion went on to highlight the importance of keeping up with scientific innovations within the food supply chain strategy, such as genome science, water-saving and capturing techniques that use humidity, and improved seeds that increase agricultural output and food production.
On a related note, Eng. Mohammed Ahmed Al-Dhanhani underlined the importance of cooperation among all stakeholders to enhance data collection, as this will help ensure accurate nation-wide statistics. Al-Dhanhani pointed to the announcement of the Strategy for Food Diversity, which includes partners and entities working within a unified system that aims to establish a more effective mechanism to provide accurate statistical data and information. He also stressed the importance of utilising modern technology, which will also contribute to the provision of accurate data. This technology includes Blockchain which provides real data and indicators on the volume of food consumption, accelerates the process of food import and export and completes financial transactions to ensure the availability of food products in the event of natural disasters.
Al-Dhanhani added that the availability of data is one of the best ways to overcome the challenges to achieve diversity by providing indicators on the size of food production in the country, through identifying the appropriate crops to grow and their level of water consumption. This ensures the conservation of groundwater reserves and the development of the agricultural sector through better adoption. It also balances water consumption according to weather conditions, monitors consumption processes and ensures the development of agricultural, fisheries and animal sectors. The discussion was followed by interactive dialogue and a question and answer session.
The UN World Data Forum 2018 is the most important international gathering of data and statistics in the world. It contributes to the establishment of a scientific incubator environment to enhance the role of data and statistics in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals 2030, namely food security, health and learning.
The UN World Data Forum 2018 takes place October 22-24 at Madinat Jumeirah Conference & Events Centre, Dubai, supported by a number of strategic partners, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Ministry of the Interior, the GCC Statistical Centre, Dubai Statistics Authority, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, DP World, Abu Dhabi Ports, Statistics Centre Abu Dhabi, Sharjah Department of Statistics and Community Development, Ras Al Khaimah Statistics Centre, Ajman Centre for Statistics and Competitiveness, the General Secretariat of the Executive Council in the Emirate of Umm Al Quwain, the Health Authority – Abu Dhabi, Dubai Media Incorporated, Emirates Airline, World Government Summit, Smart Solutions & Services Authority, EDIC Geospatial Services, and Habtoor City.
Dubai, September 11, 2018
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) held a meeting for heads of communication from government entities and private-sector strategic partners at its headquarters, where it showcased the progress made in preparing for the second UN World Data Forum, set to be held in Dubai in October with more than 1,500 data experts in attendance.
His Excellency Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director General, Chairman of the Organising Committee of the UN World Data Forum 2018, kicked off the meeting by outlining the vision and objectives behind the UAE’s hosting of the UN event. H.E. Lootah welcomed the attending officials – the heads of communication from the Ministry of Interior and statistics centres in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah, in addition to the General Secretariat of the Executive Council of Umm Al Quwain, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), the Smart Dubai Office (SDO) and Abu Dhabi Ports.
Participants stressed the necessity of unifying the messages coming from the various entities and aligning them with the Forum’s objectives. They went on to call for greater cooperation between heads of communication and the organising teams to ensure media coverage that is on par with the Forum’s international status and prestige, and that underlines a set of clear and concise messages on the importance of data and its role in policy- and decision-making.
The UN World Data Forum is the most prominent event of its kind in the world with a primary focus on data and statistics. With its specialised discussion panels, the event presents a platform for exploring and enhancing the role of data and statistics in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SGDs) 2030 – most notably, food security, health and education.
The three-day Forum will be held on October 22-24, 2018, at Dubai’s Madinat Jumeirah, with support from major strategic partners, namely: The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFA); the Ministry of Interior (MOI); GCC Statistical Center (GCC-STAT); the Smart Dubai Office (SDO); Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA); Dubai Statistics Center (DSC); DP World; Abu Dhabi Ports; Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi; Sharjah Department of Statistics and Community Development (DSCD); Fujairah Statistics Centre; and the General Secretariat of the Executive Council in the Emirate of Umm Al Quwain.
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.
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.
Memorandum supports UN World Data Forum 2018 to be held in Dubai this year
Dubai August 6, 2018
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) has signed a partnership agreement with the Statistical Centre of the Gulf Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC-Stat), as it prepares to host the second UN World Data Forum in the UAE on October 22, 2018.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) took place at the Authority’s headquarters in Dubai, with His Excellency Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director General and Chairman of the Organising Committee of the UN World Data Forum 2018, and H.E. Saber bin Saeed Al Harbi, Director General of GCC-Stat, as signatories. Attending the ceremony were a number of dignitaries and officials from both sides.
“This MoU is a tangible result of the wise leadership’s directives to build bridges of cooperation between the UAE and the GCC. The agreement outlines the framework of collaboration that will enhance the UAE’s readiness to host the UN World Data Forum 2018, which seeks to achieve the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (2030 Agenda), not only in the UAE but also across the region and the world. The effort to bring together local and regional organisations to work together reflects our commitment to producing a premium platform for the forum – one that befits such a prestigious global event,” said H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah.
For his part, H.E. Saber bin Saeed Al-Harbi explained that the agreement is a confirmation of GCC-Stat’s commitment to supporting initiatives and events related to statistics, in general, and the UN World Data Forum 2018, in particular. He described the MoU as one of the most important to facilitate a global platform for seamless Gulf-wide statistical work, and one that stands to benefit all related stakeholders in the region.
Dr Fahad Bin Sulaiman Al Tekhaifi, President of the General Authority for Statistics (GaStat), asserted that the forum brings together leaders, decision makers and experts in the field of data science and statistics, as well as data producers and users from around the world. He reiterated that it represents an ideal opportunity to highlight the most important topics and introduce the latest technologies related to statistics in an interactive environment that endorses the exchange of information and ideas, as well as promotes innovative initiatives aimed at strengthening the capacity of participating states to harness data and statistical systems, and implement the 2030 SDGs globally.
“We are delighted to join hands with the UAE and to support it with the hosting of the UN World Data Forum 2018. This joint venture will help ensure the success of the 2018 Forum – an event that will enhance the position and stature of GCC statistics agencies globally,” said Othman Abdullah Al-Othman, Acting General Director of the Central Statistics Bureau and Assistant Undersecretary for the Statistics Sector, Kuwait.
“The collation of accurate statistical data is a fundamental pillar for the development process, as it provides indicators that play a pivotal role in decision-making, planning and the preparation of economic, social and environmental policies. Strong and effective statistical systems are vital to generate the large amount of data that is required to plan effective policies that cover all aspects of community activity,” he added.
Al Othman highlighted the importance of hosting major statistical platforms such as the UN World Data Forum, as it reflects the GCC countries’ support to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), facilitating partnerships between GCC, regional and international organisations. This, he said, leads to the enhancing of cooperation between users and producers of statistical data and improves the effectiveness of economic and development policies at the national, regional and international levels.
“Through the UN World Data Forum, we look forward to addressing important issues, such as national capacity-building and financing, improving data collection, integrating non-traditional sources of data and reviewing the progress of the Cape Town Global Plan of Action for Sustainable Development Data, which was agreed upon at the first World Data Forum. By addressing challenges in global data collection and collation, we can examine the solutions that will enable us to meet the 2030 Agenda,” Al Othman concluded.
Dr Nabeel Mohammed Shams, Deputy CEO, Statistics & Population Registry in Bahrain, stressed the importance of this Forum as it brings together the leading producers and users of data from around the region and the world, which will endorse global efforts in launching innovative initiatives that improve the quality of data generated on health, migration, refugees, education, income, environment, human rights and other core areas of sustainable development.
“The UN World Data Forum is an important gateway to exploring innovative approaches to applying data and statistics in measuring progress globally. It provides an ideal platform to launch initiatives and solutions that will provide better data for all by sharing experiences that will enrich discussions and improve the use of data in sustainable development,” said Dr Shams, who praised the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority for its efforts to host the event.
Dr Khalifa bin Abdullah bin Hamad Albarwani, CEO of the National Centre for Statistics and information, Oman, noted that the Sultanate has placed great emphasis on statistics since the very beginning of the renaissance sweeping across the country, under the leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, by virtue of its great role in decision and policy making.”
“The UN World Forum 2018 is a great event, and one we can count on to discover innovative ways to utilise data and statistics to quantify international progress,” he added.
The second edition of the UN World Data Forum 2018 will provide an opportunity to network with organisations, companies, institutions, universities and experts from all over the world, all the while promoting the 2030 Agenda. With global leaders in data and statistics attending, along with a large number of officials from government and business sectors, the forum is expected to receive wide media coverage from various local, regional and international media agencies.
Dubai, August 5, 2018
The SDGs and the upcoming UN World Data Forum were discussed in a meeting between DSG Amina Mohammed and Abdulla Lootah, DG of FCSA at the UN HQ in New York. In particular, how advanced technologies and data can be utilised to serve nations as they strive to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Lootah discussed the UAE’s experience in this regard, highlighting its national and international efforts in support of the SDGs. Hosting the 2nd UN World Data Forum is another opportunity to bring together all stakeholders and focus the world on how to harness the power of data to serve humanity.
"The UN World Data Forum in Dubai ignites the possibilities of technology giving ambition to the critical role of data in monitoring, measuring and achieving progress towards an inclusive, resilient and sustainable future for everyone. The
data revolution creates the opportunity to harness new technologies making the invisible visible and giving the most vulnerable communities a voice in determining a dignified future," said Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations.
"With a host of international experts, government officials, the private sector and civil society actors set to attend, the upcoming UN World Data Forum is going to offer a truly global platform to share experiences and innovations that can support nations in their drive to meet or exceed the Sustainable Development Goals," said H.E. Lootah, Director General of the FCSA. "We are hosting the UN World Data Forum to highlight UAE’s leadership commitment and to advance this important global commitment; that every nation in the world, can enjoy a decent level of living, health care and education. The Forum will provide an opportunity for participants to learn about the latest data, which will contribute to finding solutions to these challenges in the future."
As the host country, the UAE is working closely with the United Nations and the High-level Group for Partnership, Coordination and Capacity Building to bring together major producers and users of data to collaborate and launch innovative initiatives that will deliver better data on health, education, economy, environment, gender equality, disables (people of determine), and other aspects of sustainable development. A special emphasis will be on advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence, and its role in driving data transformation in support of the Sustainable Development Goals, with the UAE showcasing a wide range of best practices and innovations in the field of data and statistics.
The second UN World Data Forum will welcome more than 1,500 data experts, policy-makers, and representatives from academia, private sector and CSOs from around the world. The event follows the inaugural forum, which took place in 2017 in Cape Town, South Africa.
The Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Amina Mohammed: The UAE has Demonstrated its Commitment to Adopting Innovation and Technology to Achieve Sustainable Development.
H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah: The UN Provides One of the Best Platforms in the World to Share Knowledge, Experiences, and Best Practices on Data and Statistics.
New York, Dubai, 16 March 2019:
As part of the UAE participation in the meetings of the fiftieth session of the International Statistical Committee at United Nations Headquarters in New York, H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah, the Director-General of the Federal Authority for Competitiveness and Statistics (FCSA) and the Head of the UAE Delegation held a meeting with HE Amina Mohammed, the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations to discuss the UN SDGs and the opportunities for enhancing cooperation efforts to achieve them.
During the meeting, the officials tackled many related topics, while focusing on the latest technology trends, strategic partnerships, the centrality of the role of youth and the importance of supporting the implementation of data-based sustainable development initiatives around the world.
H.E. Lootah showcased the UAE’s experience and experiments in this field and shed a spotlight on the State’s efforts at the local and international levels to achieve the SDGs, including hosting the second session of the United Nations Global Data Forum in October 2018. The international event was considered as an additional opportunity to meet with stakeholders and focus on how to harness the power of data to serve humanity.
On this occasion, HE Amina Mohammed said: “I am delighted to meet again with the UAE delegation and members of the FCSA. The UAE has always been a committed member of supporting global efforts to achieve sustainable development goals, and the presence of a large team of officials at the meeting of the Fiftieth Session of the International Statistical Committee highlights the deep faith of UAE leadership in the vital role that data can do to achieve a prosperous future.”
On his side, Lootah pointed out: “The United Nations World Data Forum has established a strong and long-term relationship between statistics and data workers in the United Arab Emirates and the United Nations, specifically the International Statistical Committee. Communication and active participation among experts, private sector bodies, private sector companies, and social organizations around the world are the only way through which we can share experiences and innovations that support countries in their quest to achieve or exceed the goals of sustainable development.”
He added: “Today, we are here in New York to promote the commitment that everyone in this world, regardless where they live, can live a life free of poverty, hunger, and disease.”
It is worth mentioning that the International Committee of Statistics (ICS) comprises leading statistical experts from UN member states, and it is the highest decision-making body on international statistical activities.
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.
UAE to welcome over 1,500 data experts from around the world in October
Dubai, June 9, 2018
UAE First Regionally and Seventh Globally, According to IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook 20182018
Mohammad Bin Rashid: Our competitiveness journey is an accelerating one, and it only makes us more determined to reach the highest ranks
UAE is number one globally in 23 indicators including “Government Decisions” and “International Talent”
- UAE is the only country in the region to be among the top 10 in the World Competitiveness Yearbook 2018
- UAE maintained its leadership in the region and moved up three ranks from 2017’s position
- UAE moved up 21 positions in 7 years from 2011 till 2018
- Mohammad Bin Rashid: We have the determination, we have the talent, and we have the resources. Being Number One suits our nation
- Mohammad Bin Rashid: UAE’s experience is a regional one that led to a top global rank. An experience of determination and success that is open for all the Arab nations. We will continue in enhancing our business environment, our infrastructure and our resources, because we want a better life for our people and all the residents in the UAE.
Dubai, UAE – 23 May 2018
The United Arab Emirates came in first rank regionally and seventh rank globally in global competitiveness. That is according to the latest edition of the World Competitiveness Yearbook 2018, published by the Swiss based Insatiate of Management Development (IMD) that was unveiled today. According to the report, the UAE out-performed advanced economies such as Sweden, Norway and Canada and has jumped 21 ranks between the years 2011 and 2018.
According to the report, the UAE came first globally in various indicators such as “Government Decisions”, “Public-Private Partnerships”, “Employment” and “International Talent”. The UAE also came second globally in “Business Efficiency” factor, and third globally in “Diversification of Economy”, “City Management” indicators, forth in “Energy infrastructure” and “Development and Application of Technology” indicators.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai stated that the UAE’s experience is a regional one that led to a top global rank. An experience of determination and success that is open for all the Arab nations. We will continue in enhancing our business environment, our infrastructure and our resources, because we want a better life for our people and all the residents in the UAE.
His Highness added that UAE’s competitiveness journey is an accelerating one, and it only makes us more determined to reach the highest ranks, stressing that we will continue in the competitiveness race and we will not settling for anything less than being number one globally. His Highness concluded by saying” We have the determination, we have the talent, and we have the resources. Being Number One suits our nation.
Emirati Leadership
The IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook 2018 is comprised of four key factors, 20 sub factors and 340 indicators that cover all the major areas of a nations competitiveness in social, administrative, business economic topics that also include government efficiency, education and innovation. In the Economic Factor, the UAE moved from fifth globally in 2017, to third globally in 2018. It also retained its fourth global rank in the government efficiency factor.
On an indicator level, UAE held a number of advanced position in various indicators such as International Trade (1st globally), Employment (3rd globally), and International Investment (10th globally). UAE also achieved high ranks in a number of indictors such as first globally in Employment as a percentage of population, 3rd globally in Diversification of Economy, 5th globally and Export Growth and 6th globally in Youth Unemployment (lack of). The UAE also achieved number one in Quality of Air Transportation and Public-Private Partnerships. The UAE also came 2nd globally in Cyber Security, 3rd globally in Management of Cities, Maintenance and Development and 4th globally in Energy Infrastructure and Application and Development of Technology.
Government and Business Environment
In the Government Effeminacy factor, UAE maintained its 4th rank globally as well as achieved the No 1 rank globally in eight indicators, such as “Government Decisions”, “Immigration laws”, 2nd globally in “Adaptability of Government Policy” and “Lack of Bureaucracy”, 3rd in “Ease of Doing Business” and 4th globally in “Labor regulations”.
As for the Business Efficiency, UAE kept its 2nd rank globally and achieved the first rank globally in 7 of its indicators such as “Overall productivity”, “Industrial Disputes (Lack of)”, “Labor force percentage of total population”, “International Experience” and “Attitudes Towards Globalization”. UAE also came 2nd globally in “Entrepreneurship”, “Digital Transformation”, “Changing Market Conditions” and “Agility of Companies”. The UAE achieved 3rd globally in “Opportunities and Threats” and 5th globally in Use of big data and analytics.”
Commenting on this year’s performance, Her Excellency Reem bin Ibrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State of International Corporation and Chairwoman of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority, said: “Under the guidance and direction of the UAE wise leadership, which is built on the continued and sustainable investment in human development and national talent, adoption of innovation and the non-stop development and improvement for the UAE economy; UAE has proven the effectiveness of its comprehensive developmental strategy that its government entities is implementing.”
“We wish to congratulate the UAE leadership and people for this great achievement and comment the collaborative efforts of all the local and federal government entities that worked hand in hand, in support of UAE international competitiveness and the progress it made this year,” added Her Excellency.
Malik Radwan Al Madani, Director of Competitiveness Strategy Deferment at the FCSA added that “No single entity alone can enhance competitiveness performance. It is the result of a collaborative effort between all the relevant local and federal government entities, through the commitment in the constant improvement of performance, the launch of impactful programs and initiatives that aim to extend services to businesses and individuals, thus, moving the nation’s competitiveness scale and contributing to the countries journey to become one of the best countries in the world by the year 2021.”
Global Rankings
In an analysis prepared by the Competitiveness Strategy at the FCSA showed that this year’s top 10 position was highlighted by extensive movement between competing economies. Most prominently, was the United States of America taking over Hong Kong as the Number 1 most competitive country. Hong Kong moved to 2nd followed by Singapore which moved up to number 3. The Netherlands captured the 4th place moving ahead of Switzerland that moved back to 5th and Denmark to the 6th place. UAE moved up to 7th place ahead of Norway, 8th, Sweden 9th and Canada 10th.
The IMD World Competitiveness Center, a research group at IMD business school in Switzerland, has published the rankings every year since 1989. This year 63 countries are ranked.
Al Mheiri: Data is key for UAE’s Future Food Security Strategy
Dubai, UAE, 28 February 2018
During her tour of the headquarters of Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA), H.E. Maryam bint Mohammed Saeed Al Mheiri, Minister of State for Future Food Security underscored the importance of cooperation and identifying areas of collaboration between the two entities. The minister met with FCSA team and was briefed on the authority’s mandate and scope of responsibilities in managing global UAE competitiveness efforts, statistics and data portfolio and the realization of sustainable development goals.
Additionally, FCSA Team presented an overview of statistical indicators related to food security and discussed strategic aspects of statistical work, means of collecting data and making it accessible to stakeholders, particularly joint projects between FCSA and government entities, as well as the private sector.
During the meeting, the minister indicated the importance of collaboration with FCSA on the Minister’s initiatives and future projects, as well as FCSA’s role in supporting such programs through FCSA’s expertise in both statistics and competitiveness.
H.E. Al Mheiri said that she looks forward to further cooperation and future joint projects with the FCSA, specifically taking advantage of the entity’s expertise in the field of researches and knowledge products to support UAE’s Future Food Security portfolio.
H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director General, said: “FCSA is keen to support federal and local government authorities in the field of statistics, data and global competitiveness ranking. FCSA’s expertise and competencies are all set to be at the disposal of H.E. the Minister and her team with the aim to achieve the desired goals and support UAE’s strategy to achieve food security,” he emphasized.
Following the meeting, Al Mheiri was taken on a tour of FCSA office and was briefed on the services and facilities highlighting the distinctive architectural design of FCSA headquarters and its impact on employees, inducing a creative work environment that stimulates productivity and innovation.
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