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DATA FOR A BETTER FUTURE
The United Arab Emirates delegation will participate in the upcoming 2025 United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development, organized by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) at UN Headquarters in New York.
The delegation will showcase the UAE’s comprehensive development model, reaffirming its commitment to accelerate progress toward the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through multinational partnerships.
The UAE delegation will focus on five priority goals: Goal 3 – ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages; Goal 5 – achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls; Goal 8 – promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, productive employment, and decent opportunities for all; Goal 14 – conserving and sustainably using oceans, seas, and marine resources; and Goal 17 – strengthening global partnerships for sustainable development.
The UAE delegation includes members from the UAE’s National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Investment, The Government Experience Exchange Programme, Dubai Chamber of Commerce, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, and Noor Dubai Foundation (under the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives), in coordination with the UAE’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York.
His Excellency Abdullah Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, reaffirmed that UAE’s participation reflects its international commitment to advancing the 2030 SDGs in innovation, technology, and smart governance. He emphasized the importance of expanding global partnerships in knowledge and development exchange.
On the sidelines of HLPF, the UAE delegation is organizing a focused global retreat to discuss current challenges and explore future opportunities and a dedicated exhibition showcasing the UAE’s progress and achievements in accelerating the implementation of the SDGs both locally and globally. In addition, the delegation will highlight initiatives in clean energy, digital transformation, education, and healthcare.
As part of the preparations for the UAE’s participation, the National Committee on the SDGs held an extensive meeting to assess the readiness of the delegation and review progress on the implementation of the SDGs. The meeting explored opportunities to expand international cooperation and sign new agreements during the Forum.
Held under the “Reinforcing sustainable, inclusive, and evidence-based solutions to deliver the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs, leaving no one behind”, the 2025 forum will run from 14 to 23 July 2025 with a total of 37 countries presenting their voluntary national reviews on the progress made toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals to date.
The UAE, represented by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC), participated in the 17th Meeting of Heads of National Statistical Offices of BRICS, held in Fortaleza, Brazil. The meeting saw the participation of high-level delegations as part of the Triple International Forum on Global South Governance.
The meeting focused on vital topics aimed at strengthening statistical cooperation among BRICS countries. Discussions included the production of digital age indicators, exchange of national experiences in economic development, poverty reduction, climate change mitigation, international statistical training, and joint publications such as the Joint Statistical Publication (JSP) of the BRICS group. These efforts aim to strengthen statistical cooperation frameworks, paving the way for further integration in data production and support for development policies within the group’s countries.
Hanan Ahli: UAE Supports Global Dialogue on Shaping a Data-Driven Future Enhanced by Statistical Innovation
Her Excellency Hanan Mansour Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, affirmed that UAE’s participation reflects its commitment to supporting global dialogue on shaping a data-driven future, enhancing its governance through a flexible and comprehensive knowledge system that responds to national priorities and aligns with global trends. By leveraging statistical innovation tools and enhancing cognitive integration, the aim is to build more sustainable communities.
Hanan Ahli added, “We look forward to strengthening cooperation frameworks with BRICS countries through the UN Global Platform Regional Hub in the UAE, contributing to the development of indicators that reflect the digital age realities and support joint efforts and knowledge exchange in this vital field.”
The UAE delegation highlighted the importance of developing modern statistical tools that reflect digital transformations in national economies, reaffirming the country’s commitment to enhancing international partnerships in data and evidence-based policy support. The delegation also showcased UAE’s efforts in developing data infrastructure, enabling innovation in statistical work, and deploying modern technologies such as AI and big data to support sustainable development strategies.
The UAE delegation stated that enhancing coordination and aligning the Joint Statistical Publication (JSP) of the BRICS group with public policy requirements is necessary, focusing on the specific nature and development needs of the group’s countries to enhance the effectiveness of data in decision-making processes.
It is worth mentioning that BRICS Heads of National Statistical Offices Meetings serve as a high-level platform bringing together decision-makers and international experts in statistics and big data to exchange experiences, discuss opportunities for effective cooperation and partnerships, and explore the latest innovative practices in statistical work, contributing to the development of quality initiatives that support continuous assessment of evolving needs at regional and international levels.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, has chaired a Cabinet meeting held at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi.
The meeting was attended by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court; H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence; H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance; H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of the Interior.
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said, “I chaired a Cabinet meeting at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, where we reviewed the UAE’s performance in the 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking. The UAE ranked 5th globally, alongside the world’s leading countries in economic competitiveness, government efficiency, legislative strength, and business environment excellence. Sixteen years ago, we established a competitiveness center, uniting the efforts of key national entities. These efforts have elevated the UAE’s ranking from 28th globally in 2009 to being among the top five globally in competitiveness. In the same report, the UAE ranked 1st globally in the absence of bureaucracy index, 2nd globally in government policies adaptability index, and 4th globally in government efficiency index. This achievement is a testament to years of consistent effort. With the vision of my brother, Mohamed bin Zayed, our future will continue to be even brighter and stronger.”
The UAE Cabinet reviewed the 2025 Global Competitiveness Ranking results, published by the IMD World Competitiveness Center in Lausanne, Switzerland. This year, the UAE is ranked among the top five globally, scoring 96.09 out of 100 points. The country advanced two positions from last year, surpassing countries such as the United States, Sweden, Germany, and Canada, while maintaining its top ranking as the regional leader for the ninth consecutive year.
The report evaluates 69 countries based on four key areas: economic performance, government efficiency, business efficiency, and infrastructure. Its findings cover 341 competitiveness indicators across economic, administrative, and social fields.
The 2025 edition also introduced five new indicators: food waste, environmental performance, freely elected government, passport mobility, and media bias.
This year, the UAE made significant progress in the business efficiency pillar, rising seven spots to rank third globally. It also maintained a strong standing globally in economic performance and government efficiency, ranking second and fourth, respectively.
The UAE’s exceptional performance in key sectors contributed to its leadership in 113 global indicators across the report’s main and sub-pillars. The country ranked first globally in 22 indicators, including employment rate, absence of bureaucracy, availability of global expertise, digital transformation in companies, venture capital, inbound mobility of higher education students, public-private partnerships, energy infrastructure, and female parliamentary representation.
The UAE also ranked second globally in social cohesion, flexibility of residency laws, and government policy adaptability, while securing third globally in graduates in sciences, leverage of digital tools and technology, and healthcare infrastructure.
The UAE’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) reached AED 1.776 billion in 2024, recording a growth rate of 4% compared to 2023. The non-oil GDP grew by 5%, amounting to AED 1.342 billion, while oil-related sectors and activities contributed AED 434 billion.
His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, stated that the GDP figures issued by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC) for 2024 represent a new notable achievement for the national economy. Affirming the UAE’s key breakthroughs under the vision and directives of its wise leadership, in driving economic diversification and enhancing global competitiveness. By the end of last year, non-oil sectors accounted for 75.5% of the country’s total GDP.
His Excellency added that these indicators reflect the success of the UAE’s economic strategies and policies aimed at transitioning to an innovative, knowledge-based, and sustainable economic model, in line with emerging trends and advanced technologies.
H.E. further stated, “We continue to enhance our national efforts under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. These efforts support the economic targets of the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision, which aims to raise the GDP to AED 3 trillion by the next decade and strengthen the UAE’s position as a global hub for the new economy, ensuring sustainable development, leadership, and international competitiveness.”
Her Excellency Hanan Mansour Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, affirmed that the 4% growth in the UAE’s GDP last year reflects the strong performance of the national economy, which is supported by a forward-looking vision focused on sustainable, non-oil-driven growth.
H.E. noted that the UAE’s leadership continues to build a pioneering and globally advanced economic model, where economic diversification remains a key pillar and catalyst for sustainable development, community prosperity, and continued national achievements. This approach helps ensure the sustainability of GDP growth and progress across various economic and development indicators.
Top Performing Economic Activities
In terms of the most dynamic economic sectors in 2024 compared to 2023, transport and storage sector led the way with a 9.6% growth, driven by strong performance in passenger traffic and flight operations across UAE airports, which handled 147.8 million travelers, reflecting an annual growth of nearly 10%.
The construction sector expanded by 8.4%, supported by substantial investment in urban infrastructure projects. Financial and insurance activities grew by 7%, while the hospitality sector, including restaurants and hotels, increased by 5.7%, and real estate activities rose by 4.8%.
Among non-oil economic activities, trade was the largest contributor to GDP, accounting for 16.8%, followed by manufacturing at 13.5%, financial and insurance activities at 13.2%, construction at 11.7%, and real estate at 7.8%.
UAE’s National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) discussed national efforts to achieve objectives of the Sustainable Development agenda 2030, outlining the third phase of the national data plan, mechanisms to enhance integration across sectors to ensure sustainability goals, and reviewed UAE’s progress indicators in implementing development goals.
This took place during a committee meeting chaired by His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange, Chair of the National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals. Also present were Her Excellency Maria Hanif Al Qassim, Assistant Undersecretary for Policies and Economic Studies at the Ministry of Economy; Her Excellency Eng. Alia Abdul Rahim Al Harmoudi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Sustainable Communities Sector at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE); His Excellency Dr. Hussain Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Undersecretary for the Public Health Sector at the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP); and Her Excellency Hanan Mansour Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC).
Abdulla Lootah emphasised that the UAE continues its approach in contributing to global dialogue to define sustainable development priorities far beyond the 2030 phase, based on its belief in ensuring a sustainable future for humanity and unifying efforts to achieve a qualitative leap in sustainable development.
He stated that the UAE represents a leading global model in adopting and translating sustainable development goals into tangible reality through a proactive vision that combines national ambition and global responsibility. The Committee supports this approach by focusing on the importance of unifying efforts and ensuring alignment of strategies with development needs and strategic goals, intensifying efforts to achieve national priorities, enhancing future sustainability foresight, and ensuring alignment of national strategies across sectors with global trends.
Global Goals Achievement Updates
The UAE’s National Committee on SDGs reviewed the progress and stages of achieving sustainable development goals at the national level. Committee members emphasised the importance of enhancing data and improving its quality through integrated systems to automate reporting processes on goal achievement, focusing on adhering to internationally approved standards and methodologies, and strengthening the UAE’s approach in sharing insights and experience exchange that positively impact sustainable development futures at community and global levels.
Committee members discussed their team efforts and mechanisms for observing global goal achievement and periodic review with working teams to monitor progress levels, internationally approved standards and methodologies implementation, and linking improvement plans with targeted timelines to ensure a qualitative leap in sustainable development data abundance according to the highest standards of accuracy, transparency, and efficiency.
Future Directions
The General Secretariat of the UAE’s National Committee on SDGs reviewed the highlights of the XDGs 2045 Global Survey, conducted during the “SDGs in Action” Forum at the World Governments Summit 2025.
The survey witnessed broad participation from over 50 countries worldwide, highlighting the urgent need to adopt a comprehensive approach in shaping the future outlook, enhancing international cooperation to forge effective partnerships, and unifying efforts in tackling challenges and exploring future opportunities.
Strategic Priorities Beyond 2030
The Committee discussed the UAE’s contributions in sharing visions and driving sustainable development nationally and globally, inspired by the country’s proactive initiative drawn from the legacy of the United Nation’s Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and Sustainable Development Goals 2030, launching the “XDGs 2045” concept in an initiative to foresee the future beyond the 2030 agenda. This initiative included three high-level ministerial meetings, bringing together leaders and government officials at global and national levels in dialogues reaffirming their commitment to shaping long-term strategies for a flexible, comprehensive, and sustainable future towards 2045.
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC) continues its strategic efforts to support to support the UAE government’s data ecosystem and implement data governance mechanisms across federal entities in the UAE, enhancing transparency and efficiency in government data management. In this context, the Centre organized a specialized session titled “Government Best Practices in Data Governance ,” with the participation of several leading federal entities in data management. This session is part of the “Data Index” initiatives launched by the UAE government last year under the Data and Digital Government pillar within the “Ada’a” Government Performance Systemaligns with global best practices in statistics and data management. Its aim is to enhance government performance efficiency and mature data in federal entities.
The session witnessed active participation from over 100 data officials representing 35 federal entities. During the session, various federal entities such as Central Bank of the UAE; Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP); as well as Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE), presented their pioneering experiences in data governance and management. This included highlighting data policies and alignment mechanisms with national and international standards, ultimately contributing to greater efficiency in data management and more effective support for decision-makers. The session served as a platform for exchanging experiences and enhancing national capabilities in adopting advanced models in statistics and data, aligning with the UAE’s aspirations in digital transformation, and supporting a culture of continuous development and innovation in data management to strengthen institutional integration and empower data officials to play leading roles in shaping the future of government data and statistics.
His Excellency Mohammed Hassan, Executive Director of the Statistics and Data Sciences Sector at FCSC, emphasized the significance of the session as a milestone in the development efforts of the national “Data Index,” providing an opportunity to review achievements of federal entities, discuss key challenges, and anticipate future trends to activate the role of data and statistics in enhancing evidence-based policy-making to serve the public good.
He added, “The ‘Data Index’ reflects the UAE government’s commitment to establish principles of governance and management of government data within advanced regulatory and scientific frameworks, enhancing the country’s position as a global hub in the digital field. The ‘Data Index’ is a key driver in supporting a smart and integrated digital government environment, enabling federal entities to employ data as an effective strategic tool to enhance decision-making and achieve the ambitious developmental agenda of the country.”
Omran Al Shamsi, Director of Labour Market Information at MOHRE, stated that the fundamentals of data governance represent the primary pillar towards enabling digital transformation and decision-making. He added that the ministry has adopted a comprehensive framework for data governance based on international standards like the DAMA framework, including clear policies and standards to define, ensure accuracy, quality, and confidentiality of data, as well as distributing roles and responsibilities among data owners, service providers, and end-users to ensure accountability and transparency at every stage of the data lifecycle.
Al Shamsi highlighted that classifying data according to its sensitivity level – whether it is open, confidential, sensitive, or prohibited – is a crucial part of protecting information and ensuring responsible use. He clarified that the ministry relies on a clear matrix of data access permissions. This approach reflects the ministry’s commitment to enhancing a data culture and providing an institutional environment based on smart governance to improve services and labor market policies in the country.
He also pointed out that “Data Governance” is not merely a technical project but a cultural change that requires institutional commitment at the highest levels. He added that institutions investing seriously in data governance are better equipped to make strategic decisions based on accurate and reliable data. The presentation concluded with practical recommendations to establish a successful data governance framework, including clearly defining data owners and tools for data documentation and quality measurement, and building an institutional culture that enhances the value of data as a strategic asset.
Dr. Alya Harbi, Director of Statistics and Research Center at MOHAP, praised the prominent role played by the FCSC in launching projects aimed at enhancing the quality of statistical data in line with future requirements. This includes strengthening data governance as a fundamental element in shaping government policies and supporting sustainable development paths. She emphasized the importance of data in shaping future visions and measuring performance indicators, contributing to improving the quality of healthcare services and enhancing health planning strategies at the national level.
She highlighted the importance of data integration among various relevant entities and the necessity of establishing effective partnerships in data analysis, which plays a fundamental role in supporting accurate decision-making that contributes to achieving comprehensive development and ensuring fair distribution of resources and services.
In conclusion, she expressed sincere thanks and appreciation for organizing this valuable workshop and for providing the opportunity for the Ministry of Health and Prevention to present its pioneering experience in this field.
The session is part of a series of specialized events and coordination meetings held during the current quarter, with the participation of 264 data management officials from 35 federal entities. Its goal is to provide timely and reliable data and statistics for decision-makers, contributing to supporting the Unified UAE Numbers and achieving effective data-based planning and national statistics.
It is worth mentioning that the “Data Index” was launched last year concurrently with the launch of the “Unified UAE Numbers” project as one of the national projects aimed at advancing and strengthening the country’s statistical system and supporting the country’s development journey across various economic, demographic, social, and environmental sectors, solidifying the UAE’s global leadership in employing data to support decision-making.
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC) in the UAE government has launched a new strategic partnership with the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The partnership was formalized during the UAE delegation’s participation in the Saudi Statistics Forum 2025 which aims to strengthen institutional collaboration in the field of statistics and data. The key goals include sharing best practices, enhancing the quality of national data in accordance with international standards, and supporting decision-makers with reliable data that informs policy and benefits society.
The MoU was signed in the presence of His Excellency Nahyan Bin Saif Bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, UAE Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Signing parties included Her Excellency Hanan Mansour Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, and His Excellency Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Al-Dosari, President of the General Authority for Statistics in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Nahyan bin Saif: Cooperation Reflects Deep Relations and Emphasizes Support for Sustainable Development
His Excellency Nahyan Bin Saif Bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, affirmed that the partnership reflects deep fraternal relations between the UAE and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It underscores the commitment of both countries to strengthen cooperation in vital areas contributing to sustainable development and future vision based on innovation and data.
Hanan Ahli: Strengthening Regional Leadership in Data-Driven Development
Her Excellency Hanan Mansour Ahli stated, “The cooperation represents a significant step towards strengthening regional leadership in data-driven development, reflecting our joint commitment to promoting statistical excellence, enhancing innovation, and building a future where development relies on the power of data to serve our nations, region, and the world.”
Fahad Abdullah Al-Dosari: Supporting Experience Exchange in Statistical Work Areas
His Excellency Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Al-Dosari, President of the General Authority for Statistics in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral cooperation between statistical institutions in areas of knowledge exchange, experiences and success stories.
Dr. Fahad Al-Dosari also stated “We are pleased to sign this MoU, which will strengthen the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and best practices between our two institutions, advancing the region’s statistical capabilities and cooperation.”
International Statistical Methodologies and Practices Session
As part of the UAE delegation’s participation in the accompanying events of the Saudi Statistics Forum, H.E. Hanan Ahli participated in a panel discussion titled “International Statistical Methodologies and Practices,” highlighting the importance of statistical governance mechanisms amid the rapid transformations in the world of data.
Hanan Ahli highlighted the need for innovative governance models that ensure coordination between government and private entities, protect data integrity, and guarantee its quality and accessibility. She emphasized the UAE’s proactive approach, reflected in initiatives such as the “Data Index,” which empowers government entities to lead in data quality and governance. This approach enhances the UAE’s leadership role in the international statistical community, particularly as a member of the UN Statistical Commission for the 2025–2028 term.
H.E. further showcased the model of statistical governance in the UAE under its federal system, represented by the ‘Data Index’ initiative, one of the most important national initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of government data. The initiative focuses on empowering government entities rather than merely fulfilling their role as a primary data source for statistical entities. This underscores the importance of governance as a fundamental element in the success of coordination frameworks between various federal and local entities, supporting the provision of timely and accurate data directly benefiting decision-makers.
Knowledge Visit
The UAE delegation concluded its visit with a tour of the General Authority of Statistics (GASTAT) headquarters, where they explored best practices in statistical governance, data analytics, and the integration of advanced technologies such as AI and machine learning in policymaking. The visit showed Saudi Arabia’s progress in digital transformation.
- Young Emiratis to take part in an event to discuss the implementation of SDGs on the sidelines of the World Government Summit 2018.
Dubai, January 30, 2018
The National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals applauded the great turnout from young Emiratis for the “SDGs in Action 2018” event, set to take place on February 10, 2018, on the sidelines of the World Government Summit, in an effort to engage the youth in SDG plans and programmes.
The UAE youth join more than 300 executives from various local and international public, private and academic establishments to discuss plans, strategies and initiatives that seek to achieve sustainable development, and address key challenges facing SDGs around the world.
Her Excellency Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Minister of State for International Cooperation, Chairperson of the Board of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA), said: “Harnessing young people’s energy and channelling it towards development plans is the key to successful sustainable progress. In line with the leadership’s wise vision to engage young people in decision making, UAE government officials are committed to encouraging young Emiratis to take part in international events of this scale, in an effort to hone their skills and build on their ideas and suggestions to address challenges and build a better future.”
“Through its National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority is committed to engaging young people in the sustainability agenda,” H.E. Al Hashemi added. “Their involvement is the fruit of the many initiatives that brought together the Authority, the Committee, and the Ministry of State for Youth Affairs, since His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, announced, in February 2016, the world’s first ministry dedicated to the youth.”
H.E. Shamma bint Suhail bin Faris Al Mazrui, UAE Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Chairperson of the Emirates Youth Council, added: “We are delighted to be taking part in this event dedicated to the sustainable development goals, which offers opportunities to explore international best practices, exchange ideas, and build robust networks to empower the youth as they join the sustainable development efforts spanning all sectors in the UAE, the region and the world.”
“The UAE leadership prioritises investment in human resources – particularly, the youth,” H.E. Al Mazrui pointed out. “Federal and Local Government bodies have been instructed to set plans and strategies to empower the youth and prepare a generation of highly qualified professionals to carry on with the sustainable development efforts taking place across the country. This reflects our leaders’ faith in the youth, who they consider to be the engine and driving force behind sustainable development.”
“SDGs in Action 2018” is an international event that seeks to discuss pragmatic solution to achieve sustainable development, raise awareness around them among all segments of society, discuss national and international best practices in this field, open channels for effective communication between all parties involved, and extend bridges of cooperation to achieve these goals on a global scale.
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, 22nd January, 2018 (WAM)
The UAE occupied the first regional position and the 17th international position on the Global Talent Competitiveness Index, GTCI, according to the 2018 publication issued by INSEAD.
The report is a comprehensive annual index that measures how countries and cities grow, attract and retain talent, providing a unique resource for decision makers to understand the global talent competitiveness picture and develop strategies for boosting their competitiveness.
In this year’s report, the UAE advanced two positions in compared to last year’s ranking. The UAE retained its rank among the 20 best countries in the world on the index, topping GCC, Middle East and African countries
Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation and Chairwoman of Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority, FCSA, expressed her pride in this achievement and thanked all government authorities and private sector companies for their co-operation in supporting the UAE’s competitiveness.
She stressed that UAE’s progress in the talent competitiveness index proves to the world the efficiency of its comprehensive development strategy, based on the directives of its wise leadership, aimed at building a knowledge-based economy, as well as its success in providing an environment that attracts talent.
Malik Al Madani, Director of the Competitiveness Strategy Department in FCSA, stressed that the UAE is harvesting the fruits of years of hard work to provide a solid infrastructure and an attractive economic and investment environment as well as establish an advanced education sector. He pointed out that all these components promote the development of human resources in the country and support its progress and international competitiveness.
Al Madani also added that the UAE achieved an exceptional performance in a number of key pillars and sub-indexes in this year’s report, after occupying the first international position in five sub-indexes including easy employment, each employee’s productivity, and international students’ attraction
The report also indicated that the UAE achieved the second international position in the strength of work relations between the government and business index, economic blocs/free zones, attracting minds and talents, and the third international position in the foreign direct investment and technology transfer and maintaining minds and talents.
This year’s report also witnessed an improvement in a number of pillars and sub-indexes as the country jumped by 13 positions compared to last year’s ranking to the first international position in the professional and technical skills pillar, measuring the availability of the required professional and technical skills in the different labour market sectors.
The UAE secured the third place internationally in attraction, which evaluates its ability to attract the best skills from outside the country, in addition to the country’s advancement of 19 levels in this year’s report in the growth axis, which measures the average growth of talent available in the country.
Al Madani said that the country is working to achieve its vision of becoming one of the best countries in the world by the UAE Centennial 2071, by focusing on future foresight, building an economy based on knowledge, creating an attracting business atmosphere, following innovation, and providing an advanced knowledge infrastructure, which supports the creation and exchange of knowledge.
The 2018 edition of GTCI includes 68 variables (65 in 2017), covering 119 countries and 90 cities (respectively 118 and 46 in 2017). This year again, GTCI scores are led by developed, high-income countries.
Switzerland maintains its number 1 position, followed by Singapore and the United States.
European countries continue to dominate the GTCI rankings, with 15 of them in the top 25.
Among the non-European countries ranking high this year, are Australia (11th), New Zealand (12th), Canada (15th), the United Arab Emirates (17th), and Japan (20th) for example.
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.
- The event included 20 workshops in English and French discussing the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Report.
- Bilateral meetings brought the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority with high-profile visitors to explore partnership opportunities.
- Participating Ministers were gifted copies of ‘My Story’, the book authored by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Dubai, December 16, 2019
The third Doing Business Technical Deep Dive has concluded its activities in Dubai, hosted over the course of four days by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) in coordination with the UAE Ministry of Finance.
The event focused on the Ease of Doing Business Report, published by the World Bank Group. It brought together more than 350 economics experts from over 45 countries in the region and the world, covering Sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), and Asia.
FCSA Director General and head of the event’s organising committee His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah delivered a closing speech, saying: “We were delighted to host the World Bank team and all participating delegations, ministers, lawmakers, and economists. The event included panel discussions and in-depth debate, where attendees exchanged expertise and best practices in the ease of doing business sector, strengthening efforts to enhance investment and business environments in participating economies.”
Lootah thanked partners from federal and local government entities in the UAE, as well as the private sector, for their contributions and support for the third High-Profile Doing Business Technical Deep Dive, whether by providing resources and talent, or welcoming participating delegations for field visits to showcase the UAE’s pioneering experience in the ease of doing business sector.
Meanwhile, the World Bank team extended its gratitude for the warm welcome participating delegations received, commending Emirati hospitality and the impeccable organisation of the event over its four days. World Bank officials underlined the importance of these meetings in providing a common platform for dialogue among participating countries – all included in the Ease of Doing Business Report – where they can exchange knowledge, best practices, and success stories in the field.
The sessions and workshops on the event’s agenda witnessed significant turnout from participants in the third High-Profile Doing Business Technical Deep Dive, who attended 20 workshops, prepared and delivered – in English and French – by renowned economists and experts tasked with compiling the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Report.
H.E. Lootah lauded the great turnout at the event’s activities, saying that it reflects the quality of the knowledge content it provides. “The workshops were referred to as ‘Technical Clinics’, seeing as their main objective was to remedy the challenges and obstacles facing policymakers in their plans to enhance the work environment in their countries,” he said. “The sessions are organised by World Bank experts in government policy, economics, investment, foreign trade, and mass communication.”
The event discussed the opportunities and challenges facing the drafting and improvement of laws, legislation, and procedures surrounding doing business, as well as the basic stages that all economic establishments go through, from launching operations, to securing construction permits, registering property, getting credit, protecting minority investors and legal rights, paying taxes, cross-border trade, enforcing contract, and handling cases of insolvency.
The organising committee sought to ensure international delegations have an authentic Emirati experience, where groups of Emirati children, dressed in traditional clothing, welcomed them with traditional rose water sprinklers to the tone of Emirati folk music during breaks between sessions. Visitors were also treated to traditional local dishes such as Batheeth, Rangeena, and Arabic coffee, served during authentic Yola and Ayala performances. Organisers presented their visitors with souvenirs inspired by the UAE’s heritage such as wicker baskets made especially for the occasion by members of the Productive Families Programme.
Prominent Visitors Applaud ‘Well Organised’ Event
The third High-Profile Doing Business Technical Deep Dive received extensive praise from renowned international visitors for being well organised, as well as for the warm welcome visitors received, which reflected Emirati values of hospitality and the UAE’s professionalism in organising global knowledge events.
The visiting dignitaries, including several ministers, convened in bilateral meetings with the FCSA team on the side lines of the Deep Dive, held in Dubai this week.
H.E. Pholile Shakantu, Minister of Justice -Eswatini, stated that the third High-Profile Doing Business Technical Deep Dive is particularly important for developing and facilitating business, offering a platform for dialogue and the exchange of creative ideas to utilise the Report and its indexes to improve laws and procedures.
Meanwhile, Senator Manqoba Khumalo, Minister of Commerce, Industry & Trade from Eswatini, applauded the event and the advanced level of communication and interaction among participants, saying that Dubai impressed him with its opulence and generosity.
For his part, HE. Oumarou Alma, Minister – Special Adviser to the President of the Niger Republic, said: “As the third High-Profile Doing Business Technical Deep Dive draws to a close, I cannot help but express my sincere gratitude to the United Arab Emirates, and to the World Bank delegation, for the warm reception and impeccable organisation. The event is a must-attend function and an unparalleled occasion for exchanging expertise, opinions, and best practices for the entities tasked with rolling out economic reforms in Africa and the Middle East.”
“I thank the UAE and the World Bank once again,” H.E. Oumarou added, “and a special thank you goes to H.E. Abdulla Lootah, Director General of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority, and his team for their constant support and their efforts to organise this event, which has made our stay in Dubai – the city of the future – all the more advantageous.”
The organising team presented visiting dignitaries with copies of ‘My Story’, the book authored by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai.
The UAE ranks among the world’s top 20 economies, and came in 16th place on the annual Ease of Doing Business Report, which tracks 190 countries around the world. The Emirates led the entire Arab region on the ranking for the seventh consecutive year. Furthermore, the UAE ranked among the international top 10 on four of the Report’s 10 categories, ranking first in the world in terms of ease of connecting to the electrical grid; third in terms of ease of securing construction permits; ninth in terms of enforcing contracts; and tenth in terms of ease of registering property.
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