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DATA FOR A BETTER FUTURE
HE Abdullah Nasser Lootah:
- The UAE views youth not just as beneficiaries of development, but as essential partners in shaping and leading efforts towards a sustainable future.
- The nation is committed to building a more inclusive and sustainable world by 2045, guided by proactive, forward-thinking strategies.
Voices for 2045: Youth Shaping the Future session aimed to:
- Engage young participants of the 2025 High-Level Political Forum in envisioning the world beyond 2030;
- Gather youth aspirations and ideas for the 2045 XDGs Vision, a new global approach to comprehensive and sustainable development;
- Encourage youth change-makers to reflect, connect, and draw inspiration from innovative ideas for a more sustainable and inclusive future.
August 04, 2025 — As part of the UAE delegation’s participation in the United Nations Sustainable Development Forum 2025, organized by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the General Secretariat of the National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) hosted a dedicated youth session titled Voices for 2045: Youth Shaping the Future. Held at the Permanent Mission of the United Arab Emirates to the United Nations, the session brought together youth leaders and global change-makers, including members of the UN General Assembly’s Major Group for Children and Youth.
The session engaged young participants in envisioning the world beyond 2030 and empowered them to shape the future of sustainable development. It fostered dialogue on youth aspirations and ideas for the Extended Sustainable Development Goals (XDGs 2045), a global vision for inclusive growth introduced by the Secretariate of the National Committee on SDGs at the 2023 World Governments Summit. The platform enabled youth change-makers to share experiences, connect with peers, and exchange ideas for a more inclusive and resilient future.
Youth Empowerment
His Excellency Abdullah Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals, stated: “The UAE firmly believes that youth are not merely beneficiaries of development pathways but essential partners in shaping and leading them towards the future
He emphasized that the session reflects this philosophy by giving youth a transparent and effective platform to express their visions and challenges. HE Lootah added, “Shaping the vision of the post-2030 sustainable development agenda requires open dialogue, collective participation, and bold ideas that keep pace with global changes. It is not enough to listen to youth as inspirational voices; their visions must be treated as essential inputs in policy-making and prioritization.”
Three Main Themes
40 participants from the UN Major Group for Children and Youth contributed diverse perspectives on the ambitious XDGs 2045 vision. Discussions focused on three core themes – empathy, passion, and action – underscoring the role of youth in building a better future.
Participants responded to three key questions via an online survey, offering insights on their motivations, desired transformative changes, challenges faced, and proposed solutions to enhance youth contributions to sustainable development. Their responses underscored key priorities including empowering youth and ensuring their active involvement in policy and strategy development; strengthening international cooperation and promoting innovation; guaranteeing universal access to quality education and healthcare; and safeguarding the environment and natural resources for future generations.
The session Voices for 2045: Youth Shaping the Future reflects the UAE’s commitment to supporting global efforts to achieve the SDGs and to enhancing the role of youth as key partners in the development of a more inclusive and sustainable world by 2045.
The United Nations High-Level Political Forum
The United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) is the UN’s main platform for sustainable development matters. Since its establishment in 2012, it has played a central role in tracking and reviewing countries’ progress toward implementing the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.
Delegations participating in the Forum conduct assessments of achievements made so far toward the SDGs, with in-depth reviews of five key goals: SDG 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages; SDG 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls; SDG 8: Promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all; SDG 14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources; and SDG 17: Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development.
The Government Experience Exchange Programme (GEEP), under the UAE Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, launched a Global Ideation Lab in collaboration with New York University (NYU). The Ideation Lab was held alongside the UAE delegation’s participation at the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development 2025, organized by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs at the UN Headquarters in New York City. It brought together leading experts, academics, UN officials, diplomats, policymakers, and university students to explore new prospects in government sector innovation and global cooperation.
The session drew participation from 26 ministers, experts, academics, and UN officials, including Annemarie Hou, Executive Director of the UN Office of Partnerships, and Patrick Paul Walsh, Vice President of Education and Director of the SDG Academy at the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN). Attendees also included sustainability officials and diplomats from countries such as Switzerland, Portugal, Ireland, Serbia, Paraguay, Bahrain, Uzbekistan, Qatar, Kingdom of Eswatini, and others. Members of the UAE delegation to the HLPF, officials from NYU’s administrative and academic bodies, and 30 students from NYU, Stanford, and the University of Pennsylvania also participated.
Global Ideas Sandbox
The Ideation Lab helps build a global ideas sandbox and provides a creative open space. It highlighted the developmental role of comprehensive initiatives supporting global partnerships, particularly the UAE’s GEEP, which serves as an incubator for scalable cross-border partnerships and an effective knowledge sharing platform.
UAE Commitment to Expanding Partnerships
His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, stated that the UAE’s knowledge-sharing approach is comprehensive, leveraging contributions across sectors locally and globally. This approach provides an environment for creating innovative ideas and impactful development solutions.
“In the UAE, we have successfully built a pioneering model for international cooperation based on knowledge exchange with countries and governments, and GEEP is a crucial part of this endeavor,” Lootah said. “We are committed to involving various sectors, particularly academia, and cooperating with everyone in developing solutions to urgent global challenges, including developmental challenges, and expanding frameworks for sharing, transferring, and exchanging best government practices to help achieve sustainable development.”
He added: “The joint Global Ideation Lab between GEEP and NYU exemplifies the collaborative approach we adopt in the UAE to develop best practices that enhance readiness for present and future opportunities.”
Challenge and Solution Model
The Global Ideation Lab adopted a collaborative approach between GEEP and NYU, centered on posing challenges, linking academic insights with practical governance, and involving various stakeholders in designing partnership-based and scalable solutions.
The session outcomes contributed to aligning knowledge inputs with policy, empowering stakeholders to participate in developing innovative solutions to urgent governance challenges and accelerating progress towards the 2030 SDGs.
UN High-Level Political Forum
The HLPF on Sustainable Development is the UN’s central platform for reviewing and advancing SDGs. Established in 2012, the forum plays a pivotal role in monitoring national and international progress on the 2030 Agenda.
Participating delegations assess progress toward the SDGs, with this year’s forum featuring in-depth reviews of five priority goals: SDG3 (ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages); SDG5 (achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls); SDG8 (promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all); SDG14 (conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas, and marine resources for sustainable development); and SDG17 (strengthening and revitalizing the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development).
The UAE has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to supporting international efforts to achieve inclusive and sustainable development, emphasising its dedication to building effective global partnerships that promote stability, accelerate prosperity, and advance the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and beyond. This vision is guided by principles of international cooperation, future foresight, and a human-centric development approach.
This came at the conclusion of the UAE’s expanded participation in the 2025 High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development, organised by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) at UN headquarters in New York City. The forum witnessed broad international participation from government representatives, international organisations, and civil society institutions.
The UAE delegation included several government leaders and officials representing the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs; Ministry of Interior; Ministry of Investment; Government Experience Exchange Programme; Secretariat of the National Committee on the SDGs; as well as representatives from the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD); Noor Dubai Foundation; and Dubai Chambers.
UAE A Leading Model in Development Cooperation and Global Partnerships
His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on SDGs, affirmed that the UAE has established itself as a leading model in international development cooperation. This model is built on sustaining positive impact, enhancing experience exchange, and developing innovative solutions to address global challenges.
He stated: “At the forum, we showcased pioneering national development initiatives that highlight the importance of strategic partnerships in accelerating the achievement of the SDGs. These included the 2045 XSDGs Report, which outlines development foresight for the next two decades, and the Government Experience Exchange Programme. We also held meetings focused on advancing multilateral cooperation to support the development of innovative solutions across key areas such as health, economic growth, the future of work, biodiversity, and global stability.”
Lootah confirmed that preparations are already underway for the UAE’s 2026 Voluntary National Review, which will assess progress towards the 2030 Agenda. The review underscores the UAE’s firm commitment to transparency and accountability, providing a comprehensive analysis of challenges and opportunities while identifying future development priorities. The process will involve participation from government, private, and civil society sectors to ensure unified efforts, based on the UAE’s ambitious vision for a sustainable and inclusive future driven by innovation, sustainability, and human development.
He also highlighted the UAE’s preparations to host the 2026 United Nations Water Conference taking place in December, which aims to strengthen global action to ensure the sustainable availability of water for all.
Enhancing Collaboration and Joint Action
A statement issued by the UAE delegation reaffirmed the country’s ongoing focus on strengthening international cooperation, knowledge and expertise exchange, and the importance of promoting sustainable practices across climate action, economic, social, and human development. The statement emphasised the UAE’s commitment to joint action to drive balanced growth that prioritises human and environmental protection, ensuring a positive development impact for communities worldwide.
Shaping Tomorrow & Innovative Events
The delegation organised a series of high-profile events that drew significant international interest, including the Sustainable Development Goals Exhibition for 2030 and 2045 at the UN Headquarters under the theme “Shaping Tomorrow: UAE Leadership for a Sustainable Future.” The exhibition served as a global platform to highlight the UAE’s role and raise awareness on the urgency of accelerating sustainable development.
Engagements also included a dedicated international session hosted by the Government Experience Exchange Programme to promote knowledge-sharing and expand partnerships, spanning nearly 50 countries and six international organisations, in support of the UAE’s vision for advancing international cooperation and strategic partnerships.
Report and Foresight Study
As part of its commitment to sharing knowledge, expertise, and valuable data, the UAE launched the 2025 edition of the 2045 XSDGs Report at the forum titled “Envisioning 2045: Inclusive Pathways to Sustainable Development.”
The delegation also presented the results of the latest 2045 XSDGs Global Survey, involving participants from 55 countries across various age groups and academic disciplines. The survey offered key recommendations and comprehensive perspectives on sustainable development for the next 20 years.
In collaboration with the Consulate General of the UAE in New York; Permanent Mission of the United Arab Emirates to the United Nations in New York; and Noor Dubai Foundation, the National Committee on SDGs also hosted a high-level roundtable to explore the role of healthcare innovation in accelerating SDG 3 on Good Health and Well-being. The session highlighted the importance of scaling and expanding access to health innovation worldwide.
Global Councils for SDGs
The delegation presented the UAE’s Global Councils on Sustainable Development Goals, launched during the World Governments Summit 2018. The initiative acts as a dynamic network that brings together decision-makers from government, international organisations, academia, and the private sector to exchange experiences and best practices aimed at accelerating the achievement of the SDGs.
Women’s Empowerment and Child Welfare
The Secretariat of the UAE’s National Committee on SDGs and the Consulate General of the UAE in New York also organised a high-impact session on accelerating innovation to advance gender balance and sustain progress in the post-2030. The discussion focused on closing the digital gender gap, enhancing care and empowerment systems, and promoting women’s leadership roles.
Sustainable Economic Growth
The UAE delegation hosted a high-level roundtable titled “Beyond 2030: Reimagining Economic Growth for People and Planet,” exploring new dimensions of growth beyond traditional metrics and market indicators.
Two key sessions were also held, addressing the role of economic diplomacy in promoting global and societal stability and the integration of social and economic development priorities.
The Ministry of Interior shared impactful results from its cross-border collaborations aimed at enhancing environmental sustainability, most notably operation “Green Shield”; a joint effort between the UAE, Brazil, Peru, Colombia, and Ecuador to preserve the Amazon Basin’s biodiversity in Latin America.
Driving the SDGs Through Partnerships
The delegation led several high-level sessions focused on accelerating SDG implementation through partnerships and held approximately 48 bilateral and multilateral meetings with organisations, institutions, global programmes, and government representatives to reinforce international cooperation for inclusive development.
The UAE also participated in the Science Day, held as part of the HLPF on Sustainable Development.
The UN High-Level Political Forum
The HLPF on Sustainable Development serves as the United Nations’ central platform for topics related to sustainable development. Since its establishment in 2012, the forum plays a pivotal role in monitoring national and international progress on the 2030 Agenda.
The Government Experience Exchange Programme (GEEP), under the UAE Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, convened its first international retreat as part of the 2025 UN High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development, organised by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) at its headquarters in New York City.
The first-of-its kind gathering reinforced the UAE’s commitment to international partnerships, bringing together global stakeholders to expand strategic collaboration and share government best practices that drive progress on the 2030 Agenda.
Held at the Permanent Mission of the United Arab Emirates to United Nations, the session showcased the UAE's advanced model in government knowledge sharing and its effectiveness in promoting institutional excellence globally.
It brought together senior representatives from governments, international organisations, and research institutions to explore multilateral and shared experiences that support the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Participants exchanged ideas on expanding partnerships across sectors to achieve measurable development outcomes, aligned with this year’s HLPF theme: “Advancing sustainable, inclusive, science- and evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals for including everyone.”
The session reflected the UAE’s ongoing commitment to fostering government modernisation and using knowledge exchange to build more effective, sustainable, and resilient institutions.
Abdulla Lootah: UAE Strengthens Global Partnerships for a Sustainable Future
His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, emphasised the UAE’s expanding international partnerships to accelerate SDG implementation worldwide. He noted that GEEP represents one of the nation’s key platforms for sharing best practices, driven by proactivity, innovation, and future-readiness.
H.E. Lootah highlighted that GEEP includes more than 100 work streams across key areas, including government excellence, services, accelerators, public policies, and competitiveness. He affirmed that hosting this inaugural international session reinforces the UAE's role in enabling international collaboration and directing knowledge exchange toward real impact on the 2030 UN Agenda, building a more sustainable future for all.
Global Partnerships for Sustainable Development
The session facilitated a robust dialogue between government representatives, international organisations, the private sector, and civil society, reinforcing collaboration to accelerate the implementation of the 2030 SDGs and deliver tangible contributions to the outcomes of the 2025 HLPF.
Three roundtable discussions were conducted centred on: Global Partnerships (SDG17), Safety and Security (SDG16), and Sustainable Environment (SDG14). Topics included the role of knowledge exchange in accelerating sustainable development, the importance of international cooperation for crisis resilience, and approaches to environmental protection and green transition.
The UAE delegation included leading experts, including Lt. Col. Dr. Ahmed Al Zarouni, Director of International Police Representation Department from the Ministry of Interior, and Her Excellency Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General from the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi.
UN High-Level Political Forum
The HLPF on Sustainable Development is the UN’s central platform for reviewing and advancing SDGs. Established in 2012, the forum plays a pivotal role in monitoring national and international progress on the 2030 Agenda.
Participating delegations at HLPF conduct assessments of progress toward the SDGs, with this year's forum featuring in-depth reviews of five priority goals: SDG3 (ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages); SDG5 (achieving equality and empowering all women and girls); SDG8 (promoting sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all); SDG14 (conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development); and SDG17 (strengthening and revitalizing the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development).
- Report outlines five priorities for global development post-2030, backed by insights from a 55-country survey and grounded in UAE-led foresight and international cooperation.
- 20245 XSDGs Global Survey finds: 94.7% support moving beyond economic indicators, 85.4% support participatory policymaking, 70% back cross-sector approaches, 67.8% support regionally adaptable goals, and 64.9% believe AI and digitisation are more impactful than traditional policies.
Dubai- New York, UN, 22 July 2025: The UAE launched the 2025 edition of the 2045 XSDGs Report at the United Nations (UN) Headquarters in New York City, as part of the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development 2025, organised by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs.
This took place at the headquarters of the United Nations, where H.E. Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Knowledge Exchange, Chair of the National Committee on SDGs welcomed the high-level attendees of the launch event, which included Her Excellency Savanna Maziya, Minister of Information and Communication Technology of the Kingdom of Eswatini, His Excellency Victor Verdon, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Paraguay, Her Excellency Seema Sami Iskander Bahouth, Executive Director of UN Women, His Excellency Eliot Minchenberg, Director of the UNESCO Office for Communication in New York and UNESCO Representative to the United Nations, Her Excellency Benjiran Herani Tajuddin, Permanent Representative of Brunei Darussalam to the United Nations, and Her Excellency Tsvai Yelma Sabo, Permanent Representative of Ethiopia to the United Nations, while the opening speech was delivered by H.E. Ambassador Mohamed Abushahab, Permanent Representative of the UAE to the UN.
Created by the National Committee on SDGs 2025, the report builds on outcomes from the ministerial session held at the World Government Summit (WGS) 2025, in addition to recommendations from the high-level 2045XDGs roundtable held during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025, and survey responses from the 2045 XDGs Global Survey.
During the forum, the UAE delegation also presented findings from the UAE-led 2045 XDGs Global Survey, which gathered insights from participants across 55 countries, spanning a wide range of age groups and academic disciplines.
Redefining Global Development Goals 2045
Titled “Envisioning 2045: Inclusive Pathways to Sustainable Development,” the report outlines five key priorities: redefining SDGs for 2045; proactively future-proofing economies and societies; enhancing global cooperation at the leadership level; accelerating the transition of global development to a new phase; and establishing a shared international commitment to the future development agenda.
The report positions the transition from current SDGs to a future-ready global framework as a necessary transformation that must be proactive, innovative, agile, and equipped to address emerging challenges.
It also urges governments to embed future foresight into policymaking, calls on the private sector to help shape sustainable development through AI, circular economies, and responsible innovation, and encourages international organisations to apply lessons learned from the current SDGs to build inclusive and adaptable frameworks.
The report emphasises the need to empower communities and individuals – especially women, youth, and vulnerable groups – to take an active role in contributing to the development agenda and shaping the future. It also highlights milestones from the SDGs in Action initiative, organised by WGS in Dubai in 2016, as a platform for advancing global dialogue and collaboration.
The report’s release at UN HLPF reflects the UAE’s broader commitment to accelerating SDG progress, particularly in the five focus areas of this year’s forum: SDG3, SDG5, SDG8, SDG14, and SDG17. These efforts are centred on three core pillars: innovation, partnerships, and strategic insight.
Proactive Approach to Shaping Development Goals
His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Secretariat on SDGs, described the report as a pivotal milestone in shaping the next twenty years of global sustainable development. He emphasised its foundation in practical pathways for international cooperation and its aim to define more comprehensive and impactful global goals.
H.E. Lootah said, “This report reflects the UAE’s approach – anticipating challenges, strengthening global partnerships, and designing innovative solutions grounded in research, data, and evidence.”
He added: “The UAE is committed to building early global consensus on the 2045 XDG framework, building on lessons learned from the 2030 goals to create a more sustainable and equitable future for all.”
H.E. Lootah noted that while UN’s official discussions on post-2030 development goals will begin in 2027, the UAE has already engaged international thought leaders since 2023. Platforms such as the SDGs in Action Forum at WGS have so far convened over 170 global leaders to shape this vision.
The report stands as a strategic contribution to the future international development agenda, reflecting the UAE’s role as a pioneer in advancing global sustainable development through evidence-based, practical initiatives that anticipate the future and serve humanity.
UAE Call for More Resilient and Inclusive Development Goals
The UAE delegation also presented findings from the 2045 XDGs Global Survey, which gathered insights from participants across 55 countries, spanning a wide range of age groups and academic disciplines. The results highlighted a strong global appetite for rethinking how progress is defined, implemented, and measured beyond 2030.
94.7% of respondents supported expanding the definition of progress to go beyond conventional economic growth indicators. Additionally, 85.4% stated that engaging people in decision-making and policymaking increases their level of engagement and participation in achieving SDGs.
The survey further indicated that 70% of participants backed a collaborative, cross-sector approach to sustainable development that is not limited to the government’s role. Another 67.8% supported the establishment of flexible development goals that can be adapted to regional contexts and priorities. Furthermore, 64.9% of respondents expressed the belief that AI and digitisation will surpass traditional policies in terms of impact and effectiveness in driving results.
UN High-Level Political Forum
The HLPF on Sustainable Development is the UN’s central platform for reviewing and advancing SDGs. Established in 2012, the forum plays a pivotal role in monitoring national and international progress on the 2030 Agenda.
Participating delegations at HLPF conduct assessments of progress toward the SDGs, with this year’s forum featuring in-depth reviews of five priority goals: SDG3 (ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages); SDG5 (achieving equality and empowering all women and girls); SDG8 (promoting sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all); SDG14 (conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development); and SDG17 (strengthening and revitalising the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development).
- UAE delegation presents results of global efforts supporting inclusive economic growth and calls for stronger international cooperation.
- Private sector investment, policy innovation, and diplomacy highlighted as drivers of sustainable development.
Dubai-New York. 22 July 2025: The UAE presented the results of its global development initiatives supporting SDG8 during its participation in the 2025 UN High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), reaffirming its commitment to promoting inclusive economic growth and decent work worldwide.
Organised by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs at UN headquarters in New York City, this year’s forum is held under the theme “Advancing sustainable, inclusive, science- and evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals for leaving no one behind.” The UAE’s participation reflects its commitment to a development model rooted in sustainability, opportunity creation, and international partnerships that advance the 2030 Agenda.
Reimagining Economic Growth for People and the Planet
The forum featured a high-impact roundtable titled ‘Beyond 2030: Reimagining Economic Growth for People and Planet’ hosted by the Secretarait of the UAE National Committee on SDGs, the UAE Consulate General in New York, and the UAE-US Business Council.
The session brought together senior UAE officials, including His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals; His Excellency Mohammed Abdulrahman AlHawi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Investment; His Excellency Mohammed Ali Rashid Lootah, Director General of Dubai Chambers; Lt. Col. Dr. Ahmad Al Zarooni, Director of International Police Representation, Ministry of Interior and Her Excellency Amna Binzaal Almheiri, UAE Consul General in New York.
The discussion focused on mobilising private sector investment to advance sustainable and inclusive growth. Participants also explored solutions to address global skill gaps and reconfigure international trade frameworks to support development.
Furthermore, the UAE delegation hosted two thematic panels. The first, “Economic Diplomacy in Action,” examined how diplomacy can foster economic resilience and stability in alignment with SDG8. The second, “Vision into Action,” explored policy frameworks that support SDG16 on peace, justice, and strong institutions.
Growth Centred on Cooperation and Partnership
H.E. Lootah, said the UAE’s model for economic growth is shaping the future of work and creating opportunities for new generations at home and abroad.
He added that the UAE has succeeded in building a balanced and diversified economic model grounded in inclusiveness and sustainability, positioning the country as a key contributor to continuous development efforts and solutions to current and future challenges in line with the 2030 Agenda and beyond.
H.E. Lootah emphasised that the importance of establishing global consensus around sustainable economic concepts and future work patterns, especially in the context of setting new global development goals beyond 2045 (XDGs). He noted that the UAE delegation’s participation in the 2025 High-Level Political Forum aligns with this goal, aiming to strengthen partnerships and exchange expertise through strategic initiatives led by the Government Experience Exchange Programme, along with contributions from leading national entities driving inclusive and sustainable development globally.
Investment in Impact
H.E. AlHawi, emphasised that the country’s investment approach is centred on strategic partnerships that foster innovation and long-term growth. This approach is focused on delivering measurable outcomes and lasting impact to support inclusive development, expand economic opportunities, and contribute to broader social advancement.
H.E, AlHawi said: “The UAE is a land of opportunity. We empower youth, entrepreneurs, innovators, and researchers. Under the leadership of the UAE government, the Ministry of Investment supports transformative global investment flows – not only to foster innovation, but to cultivate talent, expand opportunity, and drive sustainable development. This vision has become reality, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to building an integrated ecosystem that supports innovation and enables impactful partnerships. Through an agile regulatory framework, we aim to ensure continued private sector growth in line with the nation’s goal of building a resilient, future-ready economy.”
UN High-Level Political Forum
The HLPF on Sustainable Development is the UN’s central platform for reviewing and advancing SDGs. Established in 2012, the forum plays a pivotal role in monitoring national and international progress on the 2030 Agenda.
Participating delegations at HLPF conduct assessments of progress toward the SDGs, with this year’s forum featuring in-depth reviews of five priority goals: SDG3 (ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages); SDG5 (achieving equality and empowering all women and girls); SDG8 (promoting sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all); SDG14 (conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development); and SDG17 (strengthening and revitalising the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development).
The UAE’s trade in telecommunications services saw continuous growth in 2024, achieving a 4.3% increase to reach AED 10.2 billion, compared to AED 9.8 billion in 2023. This is according to data from the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC). This positive performance is attributed to the strong growth recorded in the fourth quarter of 2024, which reached 12.95%.
International competitiveness reports highlight the UAE’s leading position in telecommunications services trade, which is a key driver for the growth of the digital economy and a vital component in enabling e-commerce and enhancing technological integration among nations. The UAE ranked first globally in 17 competitive indicators related to the transition towards a digital economy, innovation, and digital infrastructure during 2024 and 2025.
The latest data from the FCSC shows a 6.49% increase in telecommunications services exports in 2024, reaching AED 4.9 billion, compared to AED 4.6 billion in 2023. Total imports of telecommunications services also rose by 2.38% in 2024, reaching AED 5.3 billion, compared to AED 5.2 billion in 2023.
Quarterly Performance
At the quarterly level, the fourth quarter of 2024 made a significant contribution to the total trade in telecommunications services, accounting for 26.45%, the highest contribution among all quarters. The fourth quarter also achieved strong growth of 12.95%, reaching AED 2.70 billion, compared to AED 2.39 billion for the same quarter in 2023, representing the largest growth among the quarters during the year.
The third quarter’s contribution to the total services trade during the year was about 25.34%, with a value of AED 2.59 billion, compared to AED 2.46 billion in the same quarter of 2023. The second quarter’s contribution was about 25.05%, with a value of AED 2.56 billion, compared to AED 2.49 billion in the same quarter of 2023. The first quarter’s contribution was about 23.17%, with a value of AED 2.37 billion, compared to AED 2.46 billion in the same quarter of 2023.
Global Competitive Leadership
The thriving trade in telecommunications services has bolstered the UAE’s position in global competitiveness indicators in digital economy and digital infrastructure fields. The UAE ranked first globally in 17 competitive indicators and among the top five globally in 21 indicators.
According to the results of global competitiveness indices and reports, the UAE ranked first in the Digital Transformation in Businesses index and the Internet Users per Thousand People index, and the Digital and Technological Skills index in the IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook 2025 published by the IMD World Competitiveness Center in Switzerland. In the same report, the UAE also ranked third globally in the Development and Application of Tech Index and the Use of Digital Tools and Technology index, as well as fifth globally in the Financing Technological Development index.
The UAE also ranked first globally in the Number of Internet Users as a Percentage of the Population index and the Mobile Telephone Users (Subscriptions/100 inhabitants) index in the Social Progress Index 2025. Furthermore, the UAE ranked first globally in the Mobile broadband subscriptions (per 100 population) index and the Population using the internet (per 100 population) index in the Sustainable Development Goals Index 2025.
In the IMD World Digital Competitiveness Ranking 2024, the UAE ranked first globally in the Internet Users index and the Wireless Broadband index. It also ranked second globally in the Tablet Possession index. In the United Nations E-Government Survey 2024, the UAE ranked first globally in Percentage of active mobile broadband Subscription, Percentage of Fixed- broadband Internet basket price, Percentage of individuals using internet, and Percentage of Mobile Cellular Subscriptions. The UAE also ranked first globally in the Individuals using the internet as a Percentage of Total Population in the Future of Growth Report published by the World Economic Forum.
In the Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024, published by the World Economic Forum, the UAE ranked first globally in the 3G mobile network coverage rate (% of population) index, the Active mobile broadband internet subscriptions (per 100 people) index, and Individuals using internet (% of population).
Telecommunications Services
Telecommunications services include the broadcasting or transmission of voice, images, data, and other information via telephone, telex, telegrams, wired and satellite broadcasting and television networks, email, and fax. It also includes business network services, remote meetings via computer networks, and support services, but excludes the value of the information transmitted. This category also covers mobile phone communication services, network maintenance services, and network access services, including internet connection services. The installation of telephone network equipment is excluded from this category.
With Sights Set to Take Effective Steps in Support of SDGs
UAE- 25th January 2020
With the participation of the National Committee on the Sustainable Development Goals, the Higher Committee for Coordinating Statistical Work held its first meeting in 2020.
Her Excellency Reem Bint Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Minister of State for International Cooperation Affairs and Chairperson of the National Committee on the Sustainable Development Goals expressed her pleasure to meet the members of the Higher Committee for Coordinating Statistical Work.
H.E. Al Hashemi emphasized the necessity of concerted efforts to provide accurate and up-to-date data, which contributes to advancing the UAE’s competitiveness in sustainable development dossiers.
“The statistical work system requires integration in all aspects of the statistical work and data collection. We should have a mutual understanding of the working mechanism in the next stage with sights highly set to achieve the vision of the UAE wise leadership in areas of sustainable development, and to move steadily forward to realizing goals of the UAE Centennial 2071,” she stated.
H.E. Al Hashemi underlined that more efforts must be exerted to make data accessible to all, and strive hard to promote and further boost up partnerships between government and local entities along with the private sector. She also touched upon areas of improvement in the statistical work by saying: “We have to invest in the mutual advantages generated by the enormous volumes of data, knowledge, and experiences to serve best the important initiatives and projects dedicated to supporting the statistical work, and enhance the achievement of the SDGs in UAE.”
H.E. Reem Bint Ibrahim Al Hashemi availed the opportunity to extend her sincerest appreciation to all the national statistics centers for their dedicated efforts to provide data and further enhance the UAE’s competitiveness in various global competitiveness reports. She stressed: “The UAE today is a role model in areas of developing strategies for achieving the SDGs. We look forward, through our meeting, to unifying the efforts of statistics centers to identify solutions to challenges and turn them into genuine opportunities.”
H.E., the State Minister, concluded her statement by giving weight to the fact that UAE deserves that everyone pushes himself to the limit to bring our homeland to the level of developed country worldwide, and create a better future for present and future generations.
H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah, Director-General of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) and Deputy Chairperson of the National Commission on SDGs, thanked H.E. Reem Bint Ibrahim Al Hashemi for attending the meeting and the directives and remarks she presented.
H.E. Lootah added: “Our work in the Higher Committee for Coordinating Statistical Work and the National Committee on SDGs focuses on the significance of data and statistics in achieving the indicators of the UAE National Agenda 2030, constant quest to further boost up the achievements, and adopting innovation as a systematic work approach to achieve the goals of the UAE Centennial 2071.”
While highlighting the significance of this meeting, H.E. Lootah pointed out that joint meetings constitute a real opportunity to discuss visions and ideas that would add value to the dialogue on supporting partnerships between statistics entities to move forward of achieving the SDGs.
He also stated: “This would enhance our work in parallel with global efforts exerted to achieve sustainability. It would also help identify priorities, discuss challenges, and review a range of innovative and effective solutions that contribute to accelerating the pace of achieving the SDGs in the UAE.”
Commenting on the significance of the meeting, Abdullah Ahmed Al Suwaidi, Acting Director-General of the Statistics Center- Abu Dhabi (SCAD), assured SCAD’s commitment to achieving the SDGs. He said: “This meeting was of outstanding importance and meant to exchange experiences, reviewing the best practices in the field of sustainability, and highlighting the vital role of statistical data in supporting the sustainability process. It also dedicated to identify the best methods to take advantage of the statistical data, improve its quality and make them accessible to the public, and channel them in the manner that contributes to the UAE’s progress and prosperity and the world at large.”
Al Suwaidi added: “The United Nations and the member states that endorsed the Global Sustainability Agenda 2030 acknowledged the importance of providing data and statistics of development indicators as unified criteria for identifying efforts to achieve the SDGs. in view of that, all countries committed to achieving their SDGs strive hard to provide the latest figures and data on sustainability and make them accessible.”
Promoting Initiatives
Arif Al Muhairi, the Executive Director of the Dubai Statistics Center (DSC), highlighted the significance of this meeting by saying: “The statistical work system requires integrating all relevant aspects of the statistical work, data flow and developing a mutual understanding of the working mechanism through cooperation between statistics entities in the UAE.
Hailing efforts to hold this meeting, he commented: “This meeting was held with the participation of the members of the National Committee on SDGs as a genuine realization of the interest that the UAE’s wise leadership attaches to promoting initiatives and partnerships that best serve to achieve the SDGs. It is held to emphasize the importance of joint work, harnessing innovative solutions, and benefiting from the data revolution to achieve the Sustainable Development Agenda 2030.”
For her part, Dr. Hajar Al Hubaishi, Executive Director of the Ajman Statistics and Competitiveness Center, emphasized: “The meetings of the Higher Committee for Coordinating Statistical Work are held according to a general framework dedicated for the process of developing and implementing statistical work in the UAE. This could be realized by achieving coordination and integration among official statistical entities, government authorities, and the private sector institutions to ensure that the flawless flow of data effectively and systematically.”
Dr. Hajar went on to say: “The joint meeting earned special importance as it is held with the participation of the members of the National Committee on SDGs. This definitely, contributes to developing a data environment that supports the efforts exerted to achieve the SDGs in the UAE through devising tools and means to ensure the provision of accurate and up-to-date data. They all are meant to contribute to the efforts exerted to achieving sustainability in the UAE by implementing various strategic initiatives and projects.”
On his turn, H.E. Humaid Rashid Humaid Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the Executive Council of Umm Al Quwain, shed light on the commitment of Umm Al Quwain Emirate to coordinate and combine efforts of the national statistics entities and provide support to them to make optimal use of data and the best methods of collecting and analyzing them.
He pointed out: “This is done to support the national statistical work systems, to implement the best practices in this vital sector and to take advantage of the methodologies designed to support sustainable development dedicated to realizing the directions of the UAE Government and its federal and local authorities to achieve the SDGs. Such efforts will finally lead to promote methods to achieve our national agenda and the UAE Centennial 2071.”
On the other hand, H.E. Najwa Yaacoub, Executive Director of RAK Center for Statistics & Studies, singled out the need to conclude partnerships in the field of statistical work to support the SDGs.
She stated: “This meeting is one of the active channels of communication with the strategic partners to contribute to pursuing the achievement of the SDGs. Moreover, it is an opportunity to develop the appropriate statistical work mechanisms to harness innovation to achieve sustainable development, one of the catalysts for realizing growth in many other vital sectors.
H.E. Najwa Yaacoub mentioned that the meeting agenda focused on expanding the methods to support and measure the UAE National Agenda designed to contribute to achieving the SDGs 2030. Also, the agenda focused on the importance of data and statistics to support decision-making processes and achieving the anticipated achievements at the level of the UAE and the world at large.”
Dr. Ibrahim Saad, Director of the Fujairah Statistics Center, underlined that the meeting received additional importance as it is being held to enhance the position of statistics in sustainable development.
He pointed out: “The statistics sector receives immense care and attention of the UAE’s wise leadership based on the importance of its active role in policy and decision-making, as well as contributing to establishing development projects.”
Dr. Ibrahim indicated that providing accurate statistical information contributes to drawing strategic plans for sustainable development in the UAE, and enhances the flow of data and indicators between the government departments and private sector institutions.
Dr. Ibrahim concluded by stating that “This would have positive implications in realizing developments in economic and social growth. It would absolutely enhance methods adopted to achieve the SDGs 2030 and boosts the UAE’s competitiveness in global reports and indicators.”
High-Level Meetings Brought Together Ministers and FCSA-UN Strategic Partners
Dubai, UAE- 19th February 2020
On the sidelines of the FCSA’s participation in the activities of the Global Women’s Forum Dubai (GWFD) 2020, a meeting attended by H.E. Jamila Bint Salem Al Muhairi, Minister of State for General Education, H.E. Sarah Bint Yousif Al Amiri, Minister of State for Advanced Sciences, and H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah, Director-General of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA), was held with Mr. Pedro Conceição, Director of Strategic Policy at UNDP’s Bureau for Policy and Programme Support.
The attendees of the meeting tackled the up-to-the-minute advances in the process of improvements and developments in place in the UAE adopted to empower the Emirati women and activate their role in the field of social and economic growth in the UAE.
FCSA, in cooperation with its strategic partners, participated in several plenary sessions of the GWFD 2020 agenda, in addition to holding high-level bilateral meetings with senior officials and experts from all over the world. FCSA highlighted the central role played by the UAE in empowering women while emphasizing its role in the development processes and striving hard to achieve gender balance.
H.E. Jamila Bint Salem Al Muhairi, Minister of State for General Education Affairs, touched upon the active role played by the Emirati women in the education sector.
H.E. Al Muhairi stated: “The Emirati women have turned their future aspirations into brilliant and ground-breaking success in education and educational activities. They were able to achieve such successes due to their perseverance and sound preparations to lay a necessary foundation in the growth, development, and prosperity of the UAE. The Emirati women demonstrate in every single day tremendous capacities to assume critical tasks and positions.
While shedding light on UAE achievements in women empowerment, H.E. Al Muhairi stated: “The UAE tops all Arab countries in the UN reports on gender balance and ranks high on the global level in gender equality, particularly in terms of low illiteracy rates and their participation in the secondary and higher education. Indeed, Emirati women represent 55% of the bachelor’s degree graduates, 41% of the master’s degree graduates, and 48% of Ph.D. degree graduates.”
On the other hand, H.E. Sarah Bint Youssef Al Amiri, Minister of State for Advanced Sciences, noted that “Young Emirati women’s competencies and energies participate intensely and sensibly in the UAE space program. This is consistent with the UAE’s directions to empower the Emirati women in all sectors, particularly the UAE project to explore Mars and space sciences, gender balance approach, and activating the role of the Emirati women as a partner in the development, progress, and prosperity currently unfolding in the UAE.”
H.E. Al Amiri underlined the importance of women working in space and advanced sciences and their role in leading their projects. She stated: “34% Emirati women participate in such projects, and by this they achieve the highest percentage of women participating in tasks and projects of advanced sciences and the space sector.”
Regarding the achievements of Emirati women regarding their remarkable progress in global competitiveness reports, H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director-General, emphasized the fact that the UAE has made significant strides in indicators related to women in global competitiveness reports. “They have achieved top spots globally in many indicators. Emirati women topped several indicators on women empowerment at the level of Arab countries.”
H.E. Lootah underscored the significance of the GWFD 2020 as a global dialogue platform dedicated to exchanging global experiences, and showcase the UAE’s successes in the area of women’s empowerment and gender balance.
On his part, Mr. Pedro Conceição, Director of Strategic Policy at UNDP’s Bureau for Policy and Programme Support, hailed the UAE’s dedicated efforts in the field of women’s empowerment.
He stated: “I have noted the UAE government’s commitment to empowering women and its constant endeavor to develop women’s participation further and give them more opportunities, considering that they are an important element in social and economic development.”
He concluded by underscoring that the UAE has already achieved myriad progress as a result of the undergoing improvements realized at various levels.
The United Arab Emirates has achieved a significant global accomplishment by entering the top 10, securing the 10th position globally in the overall ranking as one of the best countries in the world in the "World Digital Competitiveness Ranking 2021," published by the world Competitiveness Center (WCC) affiliated with the International Institute for Management Development (IMD).
In doing so, the UAE topped the MENA Region, not only ranking first regionally the UAE surpassed leading countries globally such as Finland, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, China, Germany, France, Japan, and Belgium. This achievement is notable during a period marked by major global challenges that significantly impacted economies worldwide. The UAE managed to make significant strides in various indicators in the report.
New achievement
Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Chairman of the UAE’s Competitiveness Council, Mohammed Abdullah Al Garqawi, said that the UAE’s entry into the Top 10 globally in the World Digital Competitiveness Report 2021, is one of the most important global competitiveness reports, and represents a new achievement in its journey towards establishing the UAE’s position as one of the best countries World.
He added, "The country has demonstrated its exceptional ability to overcome challenges and turn them into inspiring opportunities, thanks to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the State, and the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the State, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, which enhances the country’s ability to achieve positive results in various competitiveness reports and indicators, making it one of the most competitive countries in the world."
His Excellency continued, "This achievement adds to the UAE’s track record in the global competitiveness journey, keeping pace with the significant developments and the new methodology of government work witnessed by the country. It reflects the government’s aspirations for the future, embodying its strategic goals aimed at achieving further progress and prosperity on all fronts. It also reinforces the UAE’s leadership in global competitiveness indicators."
Digital Transformation
H.E. Omar Sultan AlOlama, the Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, stated that the government of the UAE supports innovative projects that enhance the concept of innovation and reinforces strategic partnerships and digital initiatives in both the public and private sectors.
He affirmed that the new achievement of the UAE reaching the 10th position globally in the report among the best countries in this field is a result of the leadership’s vision that prioritizes a knowledge-based economy and embraces smart solutions and innovative digital initiatives among its current priorities and future plans.
He added that the UAE government adopts a policy of digital transformation that enhances the efficiency of smart platforms and contributes to the successful implementation of projects in the fields of digital economy and artificial intelligence, which positively impacts both the government and society.
Ready For The Future
In the same vein, Minister of State for Advanced Sciences, Sarah AlAmiri affirmed that the government of the UAE embraces advanced technology and Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies as a fundamental axis in its future-oriented directions. This reflects the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, to develop an integrated technological infrastructure based on innovation and digitization, supporting the state’s efforts in preparing for the next fifty years.
Her Excellency praised the progress achieved by the UAE in the "Global Digital Competitiveness Report," securing the fifth position globally in the Technology Framework Index. She highlighted the qualitative leap in the Digital and Technological Skills Index, with the country advancing seven positions to rank 10th globally.
Vision 2021
H.E. Eng. Majed Sultan Al Mesmar The Director General of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority, stated that the significance of the results achieved by the UAE in the "World Digital Competitiveness Report 2021" lies in the timing, aligning with the accomplishment of the ‘UAE Vision 2021’ to be among the best countries globally.
He added, ‘This result comes to confirm that, with the guidance of our leadership, we have achieved digital transformation goals in successive stages until now. This encourages us and strengthens our determination to move towards new heights and achievements in the next fifty years, God willing.
Work Style
H.E. Dr. Mohamed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity of the UAE Government, that the digital transformation witnessed by the country touches all aspects of life in the state’s society. It has become a culture and a working style in the UAE government. With the technological progress in our world today, digital security has become an integral part of the national security of advanced countries. Innovation, adaptability, and the ability to renew play a crucial role in protecting digital societies and proactively addressing any cyber threats.
Al Kuwaiti affirmed that the UAE is moving steadily according to the ‘Plan 50,’ aiming to be among the best countries in the world in various sectors through insightful vision, an effective government, and the capability to flexibly and efficiently deal with future changes. This enhances its position regionally and internationally within the most competitive knowledge-based economies globally.
H.E. Hanan Ahli, acting director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, expressed her sincere thanks to the strategic partners in the federal and local government entities, national statistical centers, and private sector partners.
She emphasized that the UAE government attaches great importance to the role of effective partnerships between federal and local government entities and the private sector to support the competitiveness file.
Global Leadership In 4 Indicators
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has secured the top spot globally in four indicators in the report: "Cybersecurity," "Net Inflow of International Students," "Resilience of Residence Laws," and "Wireless Broadband Subscriptions."
Additionally, the country has claimed the second position worldwide in indicators such as "Availability of Global Expertise," "Presence of International Experts," and "Globalization Trends."
Furthermore, it has achieved the third position globally in indicators such as "City Management," "Companies’ Use of Big Data and Analytical Tools," and "Availability of Opportunities and Absence of Threats."
Significant Leaps by the UAE
The United Arab Emirates has made significant advancements in various indicators, making a leap of 31 positions in one go in the "Internet Users" index, securing the fourth position globally. Furthermore, it achieved a remarkable advancement of 31 positions in the "Percentage of Population with Higher Education" index, attaining the 16th position worldwide.
In addition, the country experienced a leap of 22 positions in the "Subscribers to Mobile Broadband Service" index, ranking 12th globally. It also made a notable jump of nine positions in the "Percentage of Women University Graduates with Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees," securing the 10th position globally. These achievements are complemented by numerous other indicators in which the UAE has demonstrated substantial progress.
The country has consistently ranked within the top 10 globally in 25 out of the 52 indicators covered in the report.
The ‘Global Digital Competitiveness Report’ assesses the performance of 64 countries worldwide across three main pillars: Knowledge, Technology, and Future Readiness. The three main pillars are further divided into nine sub-pillars, encompassing a total of 52 indicators. The report methodology relies on 20 opinion survey indicators and 32 statistical data indicators.
UAE Leads in the Arab Region
In this year’s report, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) emerged as the top-ranking Arab country, securing the first position in all main pillars. It achieved the 5th position globally in the ‘Technology’ pillar, the 12th position globally in the ‘Future Readiness’ pillar, and experienced a significant leap of 13 positions in the ‘Knowledge’ pillar, landing at the 18th position globally.
In the nine sub-pillars of the report, the UAE claimed the top spot globally in the ‘Talent’ pillar, advancing four positions from the previous year. It secured the 2nd position globally in the ‘Regulatory Framework’ pillar and the 5th position globally in the ‘Technological Framework’ pillar.
Furthermore, the UAE made a substantial leap of 19 positions in the ‘Education and Training’ pillar, achieving the 25th position globally. It also secured the 10th position globally in two sub-pillars: ‘Workforce Flexibility’ and ‘Information Technology Integration.’
The UAE surpassed countries such as Finland, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, China, Germany, France in the overall rankings.
Chairing the First Meeting of the FCSA Board of Directors in 2019
Dubai, 9 April 2019
Chairing the first meeting of the Board of Directors of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) in 2019, H.E. Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and the Future and Chairman of the FCSA Board of Directors, acknowledged the support provided by all members of the FCSA Board of Directors to boost efforts exerted by the FCSA to further improve the UAE’s ranking in global indices and to achieve the goals of the National Agenda 2021.
He pointed out that FCSA has become a regional and global knowledge hub. “FCSA showcases the UAE model in competitive strategies, and how data, initiatives, and innovative methods in providing and disseminating data can support the design and shaping the future.”
“FCSA has become a key resource for decision-makers, officials, and experts from the UAE and abroad who desire to use statistics tools to shape the future with sights set to serve their countries and people. Data is national wealth, so we have to work hard to make use of them to build the future of our coming generations, to realize the vision and guidance of our wise leadership and rise to be among the best countries in the world.”
The FCSA team presented their proposed work plan for the current year, which includes setting up a series of specialized files focusing on a number of areas such as the impact of data on the national agenda indicators and global competitiveness reports, legislation and its role in promoting the UAE’s global competitiveness, SDGs and their relationship with the UAE Vision 2021 and the initiatives includinge race to thefuture and others.
Several projects and initiatives based on advanced technology, such as artificial intelligence were also presented. An innovative analytical tool based on geospatial information systems (GIS) was also introduced. Additionally, some innovative services such as the compilation, analysis, and classification of satellite images using machine learning and artificial intelligence techniques were also introduced.
Members of the FCSA Board of Directors praised the efforts of FCSA’steam and the relevant initiatives. They recommended focusing on national and international indicators, especially those related to the National Agenda 2021. They also stressed the importance of cooperating and collaborating with the competent task forces of the federal government entities concerned with the national agenda by providing statistical data and competitive indicators in respect of each body and its terms of reference.
The meeting ended with an open discussion between members of the Board of Directors and the FCSA task team, where several ideas and proposals related to the FCSA 2019 operational plan were tackled. They underlined the importance of working together with all partners and cooperating with federal and local government agencies, private sector companies, international institutions, and society to achieve the vision of the UAE 2021.
The FCSA Board of Directors is chaired by the Minister of the Cabinet Affairs and the Future of the United Arab Emirates, and includes 18 members; namely H.E. Minister of Economy, H.E. Minister of Health and Community Protection, H.E. Minister of State for Financial Affairs, H.E. Minister of Health and Industry, H.E. Minister of Education, H.E. Minister of Human Resources and Emiratization, H.E. Minister of Community Development, H.E. Minister of State for Happiness and Quality of Life, H.E. Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, H.E. Secretary General of the Office of H.H. Minister of Interior, H.E. Acting Director General of Identity in the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, H.E. Deputy Secretary General of the Supreme Council for National Security, H.E. Chairman of the Board of Directors of Statistics Center – Abu Dhabi, H.E. Secretary General of Dubai Executive Council, H.E. Director General of Sharjah Department of Statistics and Community Development, H.E. Secretary General of the Ajman Executive Council, HE Secretary General of Umm Al Quwwain Executive Council, H.E. Director of Fujairah Emiri Diwan and H.E. Secretary General of the Ras Al Khaimah Executive Council.
Dubai (Union) – The UAE has achieved a new global achievement by being among the best countries in the world in government digital transformation, to be the only Arab country in this group, in the Government Digital Maturity Report "GovTech" issued by the World Bank for the year 2021, which measures the levels of maturity of digital transformation and reliance on modern technology in conducting work in the government sector in 198 countries around the world. The report divided the countries included into 4 groups, the first of which was Group A, which included "the global leaders in government technology maturity", which included 43 countries, including the UAE, Canada, the United States, Switzerland, Britain, France, and Japan, which were ranked "very high" in the maturity of technology adopted in government digital transformation processes, as countries in this category had innovative solutions and distinguished practices. Group B includes countries that have achieved a "high" rank in government technology maturity and have large investments and good practices in government technology in most of the report’s themes, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Russia, China, Jordan, Tunisia, Uzbekistan, Ireland. The third group (c) included countries whose governments have improvements in government digital transformation technology and have active efforts in digital government practices, while the fourth group (d) came to express countries with minimal focus on digital government initiatives. UAE Centennial Eng. Majid Sultan Al Mesmar, Director General of TDRA said: "The GovTech report from the World Bank represents a new milestone in the UAE’s march towards a sustainable digital future that includes both government and society, in implementation of the UAE Centennial Vision 2071, which was defined by our wise leadership. These include a forward-looking government, a diversified knowledge economy, and a more cohesive society." He added: "This achievement represents a natural reflection of the spirit of solidarity and one team that prevailed throughout the digital transformation process at the national level, including the federal and local governments as well as the private sector, and we do not forget the role of society through its active participation through digital platforms in the development of services and policies followed, which ultimately aim to achieve the highest levels of happiness for all in the UAE." Ambitious goals For her part, Hanan Mansour Ahli, Acting Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center, said: "The UAE is proceeding thanks to the vision and directives of the wise leadership for the next fifty years with ambitious goals that foresee the future, and consolidate the culture of excellence in being at the forefront of the countries of the world at various levels, and the digital, technical and scientific excellence of the UAE is a key pillar in its development and economic process." Ahli affirmed: "The UAE’s solutions within Group A, which is ranked the highest globally in the GovTech Digital Maturity Report issued by the World Bank, are new evidence of its leadership regionally and globally in the field of government digital transformation, in addition to its rich balance in global competitiveness reports, as the country ranked first globally in 121 competitive indicators, and first in the Arab world in 496 indicators, despite the rapid transformations in the global competitiveness map and the successive developments in the global economy, which makes The UAE experience is an icon from which to inspire the countries of the region and the world in the march of global competitiveness." Discriminate global The World Bank report based its classification on four main axes: "main government systems", "public service delivery", "community participation", and "government enablers for technological transformation", and pointed to the UAE’s global excellence in all axes, under which 48 indicators fall, the UAE achieved the full mark in 31 of them, which qualified it to be in group (A) the highest in the world, which includes countries that obtained a score ranging from 0.75 to 1.00 "full mark" in The maturity of government technologies, the only Arab country to join Group A, and participated with Israel alone in the top of the Middle East and North Africa countries within the same group, achieving a score of 0.80 on the index, knowing that the global average did not exceed 0.52, while countries in other groups obtained a score of 0.74 or less. A pioneering experience The report devoted a special space to reviewing the UAE’s experience in digital transformation, and pointed out that it is one of the most mature countries in the world in the field of digital government services provided to society, and touched on its adoption of the Fourth Industrial Revolution Strategy and the Artificial Intelligence Strategy. The National Innovation Strategy and the UAE Blockchain Strategy 2021. The report pointed out that the digital transformation strategy in the country aims to adopt advanced technologies and use them to convert 50% of government transactions at the federal level to the "blockchain" platform, and expected that government procedures in Dubai will become completely paperless by the end of 2021, which leads to the dispensation of more than one billion papers that were used in government transactions every year. The report concluded by presenting the UAE’s experience by detailing the results obtained in the four axes, and the indicators in which it excelled to exceed global averages, as the country won 0.60 in the "main government systems", noting that the global average is 0.48. The UAE achieved 0.92 in the "Providing Public Services" axis, while the global average did not exceed 0.61, and it won 0.88 in the "community participation" axis, while the global average did not exceed 0.46, and the country achieved 0.79 in the axis of "government enablers for technological transformation", while the global average was 0.53. It is worth noting that the World Bank’s GovTech Digital Maturity Report is the most comprehensive measure For digital transformation in the government sector, as it highlights the most important practices for designing digital transformation projects in the world.
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