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DATA FOR A BETTER FUTURE
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority signs agreement with Dubai Electricity and Water Authority to support the UN World Data Forum 2018
DUBAI, 28th July, 2018 (WAM)
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) to build a strategic relationship to support the United Nations 2018 World Data Forum, to be hosted by the United Arab Emirates in October 2018. More than 1,500 leaders, decision makers, experts and specialists in the field of data and statistics from around the world will attend the event.
The MoU was signed by H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director General, and Chairman of the Organising Committee of the UN World Data Forum 2018, and HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, in the presence of senior officials of both organisations.
H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director General, said: "Energy sustainability and efficiency improvement is one of the key sustainable development goals. Underlining its visionary leadership, the UAE has adopted a long-term strategy to promote this goal, and reduce that nation’s dependence on traditional energy sources. Our nation has taken concerted initiatives to diversify energy sources and increase the contribution of clean energy to the overall mix to ensure sustainability for our future generations. The availability of accurate statistical data and information will support the development of future scientific and knowledge plans that will drive the efforts of national institutions in this field."
"The MoU signed with Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) will integrate the efforts of national institutions to contribute international expertise and best practices in building national capacities in statistical fields. This will help provide data that serve the objectives of the national development agenda, and highlight the UAE’s leading position as one of the best countries in the world in the use of data and information to achieve sustainable development in all fields and sectors," he added.
"We are pleased to be the strategic partner of the UN World Data Forum, organised by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority. This underlines the position of the UAE as an ideal platform for hosting the biggest and most important conferences and forums, thanks to its robust infrastructure and capabilities to organise major events. The Forum will be an opportunity to discuss the growing importance of data for governments around the world and the need to develop ways for collecting and processing data to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals 2030. We are sponsoring this international forum because we believe in the important role data and statistics play in building smart cities and promoting the transformation towards a knowledge-based economy by encouraging creativity and innovation. This is achieved by utilising data to develop innovative solutions, smart applications, and value-added services. Through Digital DEWA, the digital arm of DEWA, we are redefining the concept of a utility to create a new digital future for Dubai. DEWA will disrupt the entire business of public utilities by becoming the world’s first digital utility using autonomous systems for renewable energy and its storage, expansion in Artificial Intelligence adoption, and digital services. Dubai will be the first city to provide AI-based electricity and water services. DEWA will launch a futuristic digital platform, a data hub named MORO, to improve the UAE’s digital capabilities to develop smart cities, provide state-of-the-art innovative solutions, and a successful model for Dubai and the world," said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA.
Al Tayer appreciated the efforts of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority in preparing, managing and presenting the UAE’s bid dossier to host the UN World Data Forum 2018. He emphasised the importance of the forum’s topics, which focuses on sustainability. DEWA attaches great importance to supporting the UAE’s efforts in line with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals 2030. DEWA is committed to adopting sustainability as a main priority for its strategic direction, plans and initiatives, to support the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, which aims to provide 7% of Dubai’s total power output from clean energy by 2020, 25% by 2030 and 75% by 2050, and the Dubai Plan 2021, which aims to make Dubai a city that is sustainable with its resources and supported by environmental elements that are clean, healthy, sustainable.
The MoU provides for DEWA to share resources and expertise to contribute to the organising this important global gathering, which examines the impact of data and its role in achieving the goals of the Sustainable Development Agenda 2030, in a way that is commensurate with the distinctive position of the UAE and its role in stimulating international cooperation to achieve development goals at global levels. The two entities will review the UAE’s leading global experience in drawing on data to shape future policies and plans in many areas, including the energy sector. They will also highlight the most prominent national projects and achievements achieved by the nation to support the global commitment to promote energy sustainability.
The two organisations will also leverage the discussions and recommendations of the forum and benefit from international expertise to build the competencies of national talent, improve their skills and develop their expertise in statistical fields to deploy them in the development of plans, visions and common policies that serve the achievement of development goals at the local level, including the objectives of the National Agenda for Vision 2021 and the UAE Plan 2071.
The MoU will leverage the activities of the global forum, which is hosted by the UAE to consolidate its position and leading role in building bridges of cooperation and establishing effective partnerships for data exchange and promoting its optimal use to achieve the goals of sustainable development 2030.
The UN World Data Forum 2018 will provide an opportunity to network with organisations, companies, institutions, universities, as well as experts, specialists, and data workers from around the world.
The forum will be attended by leaders of data, and a large number of officials from government and business sectors, who will take part in specialized discussion sessions in establishing a scientific environment to enhance the contribution of data and statistics to achieving the goals of sustainable development 2030.
Smart Dubai, FCSA enhance cooperation for UN World Data Forum 2018
- The two sides signed an MoU to showcase Smart Dubai’s world-class initiatives
- Lootah: The partnership agreement reflects our commitment to work together to support the vision of the UAE
- Al Nasser: Dubai has the most comprehensive and ambitious data initiative worldwide
Dubai, June 27, 2018
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority has signed a strategic partnership agreement with Smart Dubai, to enhance cooperation for supporting the 2nd United Nations World Data Forum 2018. The forum will be held in the UAE in October, with more than 1500 experts in the field of data and statistics from different countries of the world expected to attend.
The partnership agreement aims at uniting efforts to contribute to the success of the world’s largest data event, and to use it as a platform to review the qualitative accomplishments achieved by UAE institutions and government entities by employing modern technologies to support the development and prosperity of the community.
The agreement was signed at the headquarters of the Federal Authority for Competitiveness and Statistics in Dubai by H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director General, and Chairman of the Organising Committee of the UN World Data Forum 2018, along with HE Younus Al Nasser, Assistant Director General, Smart Dubai, and CEO, Dubai Data Establishment, in the presence of the accompanying delegates from both entities.
"The combination of efforts and effective cooperation among all parties will have a significant impact on the success of hosting the United Nations World Data Forum 2018, consolidating the UAE’s leading position as a global destination for world-class events," said H.E. Abdulla Nasser Lootah. “This agreement with Smart Dubai underlines our commitment to uniting efforts with various government entities to translate our wise leadership’s vision in achieving the goals of sustainable development according to data-driven plans and strategies.”
"The forum will provide a unique opportunity to utilize experiences, review best practices, exchange ideas and discuss the latest technologies related to statistical fields. This provides an ideal platform to review the achievements of Dubai in its quest to be the smartest city in the world, based on the directives of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, by developing holistic solutions that will drive sustainable development and support the well-being of society."
H.E. Younus Al Naser said: “"Our leadership’s vision has elevated our role to a global level, and any initiative we develop has an impact on global trends. This applies to “Dubai Data”, one of the most comprehensive and ambitious initiatives in the world. Our leadership sees data as the oil for the future, which makes Dubai the perfect venue for hosting the 2018 UN World Data Forum. The forum will provide an opportunity to inform the world of what we have achieved in a record time in terms of data as a tool to empower the future, as well as the opportunity to exchange experiences and ideas with the global experts participating in the event. "
"The partnership agreement is part of our keenness to translate the national plans, including the UAE 2071 Centennial Plan, due to the strategic role that the data will play in transforming our country to be the best in the world. We will use our expertise to ensure the event’s success, which is an accomplishment to our country, complementing its pursuit of a knowledge-based economy.” H.E. added. “While the world is still exploring the future potential of data, we will showcase our achievements such as the Dubai Pulse, which is a world-first, being a future tool for building effective – and user-friendly human experience. "
The agreement stipulates the consolidation of visions and strategies, developing practical approaches aimed at building and exchanging experiences and enhancing technical capacities. It aims at achieving mutual goals, visions, policies, plans and strategic programs to develop a smart statistical system that will serve as an example for the world, and provide information and knowledge to meet the needs of both entities while supporting sustainable development plans at all levels.
- Real GDP 2017 generates 0.8% growth and 2.5% growth for non-oil sectors in 2017
- Current GDP for 2017 achieves 7.2%
Dubai, UAE – 12 June 2018
UAE to welcome over 1,500 data experts from around the world in October
Dubai, June 9, 2018
UAE First Regionally and Seventh Globally, According to IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook 20182018
Mohammad Bin Rashid: Our competitiveness journey is an accelerating one, and it only makes us more determined to reach the highest ranks
UAE is number one globally in 23 indicators including “Government Decisions” and “International Talent”
- UAE is the only country in the region to be among the top 10 in the World Competitiveness Yearbook 2018
- UAE maintained its leadership in the region and moved up three ranks from 2017’s position
- UAE moved up 21 positions in 7 years from 2011 till 2018
- Mohammad Bin Rashid: We have the determination, we have the talent, and we have the resources. Being Number One suits our nation
- Mohammad Bin Rashid: UAE’s experience is a regional one that led to a top global rank. An experience of determination and success that is open for all the Arab nations. We will continue in enhancing our business environment, our infrastructure and our resources, because we want a better life for our people and all the residents in the UAE.
Dubai, UAE – 23 May 2018
The United Arab Emirates came in first rank regionally and seventh rank globally in global competitiveness. That is according to the latest edition of the World Competitiveness Yearbook 2018, published by the Swiss based Insatiate of Management Development (IMD) that was unveiled today. According to the report, the UAE out-performed advanced economies such as Sweden, Norway and Canada and has jumped 21 ranks between the years 2011 and 2018.
According to the report, the UAE came first globally in various indicators such as “Government Decisions”, “Public-Private Partnerships”, “Employment” and “International Talent”. The UAE also came second globally in “Business Efficiency” factor, and third globally in “Diversification of Economy”, “City Management” indicators, forth in “Energy infrastructure” and “Development and Application of Technology” indicators.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai stated that the UAE’s experience is a regional one that led to a top global rank. An experience of determination and success that is open for all the Arab nations. We will continue in enhancing our business environment, our infrastructure and our resources, because we want a better life for our people and all the residents in the UAE.
His Highness added that UAE’s competitiveness journey is an accelerating one, and it only makes us more determined to reach the highest ranks, stressing that we will continue in the competitiveness race and we will not settling for anything less than being number one globally. His Highness concluded by saying” We have the determination, we have the talent, and we have the resources. Being Number One suits our nation.
Emirati Leadership
The IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook 2018 is comprised of four key factors, 20 sub factors and 340 indicators that cover all the major areas of a nations competitiveness in social, administrative, business economic topics that also include government efficiency, education and innovation. In the Economic Factor, the UAE moved from fifth globally in 2017, to third globally in 2018. It also retained its fourth global rank in the government efficiency factor.
On an indicator level, UAE held a number of advanced position in various indicators such as International Trade (1st globally), Employment (3rd globally), and International Investment (10th globally). UAE also achieved high ranks in a number of indictors such as first globally in Employment as a percentage of population, 3rd globally in Diversification of Economy, 5th globally and Export Growth and 6th globally in Youth Unemployment (lack of). The UAE also achieved number one in Quality of Air Transportation and Public-Private Partnerships. The UAE also came 2nd globally in Cyber Security, 3rd globally in Management of Cities, Maintenance and Development and 4th globally in Energy Infrastructure and Application and Development of Technology.
Government and Business Environment
In the Government Effeminacy factor, UAE maintained its 4th rank globally as well as achieved the No 1 rank globally in eight indicators, such as “Government Decisions”, “Immigration laws”, 2nd globally in “Adaptability of Government Policy” and “Lack of Bureaucracy”, 3rd in “Ease of Doing Business” and 4th globally in “Labor regulations”.
As for the Business Efficiency, UAE kept its 2nd rank globally and achieved the first rank globally in 7 of its indicators such as “Overall productivity”, “Industrial Disputes (Lack of)”, “Labor force percentage of total population”, “International Experience” and “Attitudes Towards Globalization”. UAE also came 2nd globally in “Entrepreneurship”, “Digital Transformation”, “Changing Market Conditions” and “Agility of Companies”. The UAE achieved 3rd globally in “Opportunities and Threats” and 5th globally in Use of big data and analytics.”
Commenting on this year’s performance, Her Excellency Reem bin Ibrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State of International Corporation and Chairwoman of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority, said: “Under the guidance and direction of the UAE wise leadership, which is built on the continued and sustainable investment in human development and national talent, adoption of innovation and the non-stop development and improvement for the UAE economy; UAE has proven the effectiveness of its comprehensive developmental strategy that its government entities is implementing.”
“We wish to congratulate the UAE leadership and people for this great achievement and comment the collaborative efforts of all the local and federal government entities that worked hand in hand, in support of UAE international competitiveness and the progress it made this year,” added Her Excellency.
Malik Radwan Al Madani, Director of Competitiveness Strategy Deferment at the FCSA added that “No single entity alone can enhance competitiveness performance. It is the result of a collaborative effort between all the relevant local and federal government entities, through the commitment in the constant improvement of performance, the launch of impactful programs and initiatives that aim to extend services to businesses and individuals, thus, moving the nation’s competitiveness scale and contributing to the countries journey to become one of the best countries in the world by the year 2021.”
Global Rankings
In an analysis prepared by the Competitiveness Strategy at the FCSA showed that this year’s top 10 position was highlighted by extensive movement between competing economies. Most prominently, was the United States of America taking over Hong Kong as the Number 1 most competitive country. Hong Kong moved to 2nd followed by Singapore which moved up to number 3. The Netherlands captured the 4th place moving ahead of Switzerland that moved back to 5th and Denmark to the 6th place. UAE moved up to 7th place ahead of Norway, 8th, Sweden 9th and Canada 10th.
The IMD World Competitiveness Center, a research group at IMD business school in Switzerland, has published the rankings every year since 1989. This year 63 countries are ranked.
Al Mheiri: Data is key for UAE’s Future Food Security Strategy
Dubai, UAE, 28 February 2018
During her tour of the headquarters of Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA), H.E. Maryam bint Mohammed Saeed Al Mheiri, Minister of State for Future Food Security underscored the importance of cooperation and identifying areas of collaboration between the two entities. The minister met with FCSA team and was briefed on the authority’s mandate and scope of responsibilities in managing global UAE competitiveness efforts, statistics and data portfolio and the realization of sustainable development goals.
Additionally, FCSA Team presented an overview of statistical indicators related to food security and discussed strategic aspects of statistical work, means of collecting data and making it accessible to stakeholders, particularly joint projects between FCSA and government entities, as well as the private sector.
During the meeting, the minister indicated the importance of collaboration with FCSA on the Minister’s initiatives and future projects, as well as FCSA’s role in supporting such programs through FCSA’s expertise in both statistics and competitiveness.
H.E. Al Mheiri said that she looks forward to further cooperation and future joint projects with the FCSA, specifically taking advantage of the entity’s expertise in the field of researches and knowledge products to support UAE’s Future Food Security portfolio.
H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director General, said: “FCSA is keen to support federal and local government authorities in the field of statistics, data and global competitiveness ranking. FCSA’s expertise and competencies are all set to be at the disposal of H.E. the Minister and her team with the aim to achieve the desired goals and support UAE’s strategy to achieve food security,” he emphasized.
Following the meeting, Al Mheiri was taken on a tour of FCSA office and was briefed on the services and facilities highlighting the distinctive architectural design of FCSA headquarters and its impact on employees, inducing a creative work environment that stimulates productivity and innovation.
- Partnerships that enhance competitiveness and commercial rule of law will underpin investment opportunities in Dubai and UAE
- Business environment and investors power reflect positively on UAE’s rank in competitiveness reports
Dubai, UAE- 26 February 2018
Mark Beer, OBE, Chief Executive of the Dispute Resolution Authority (DRA) at Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and an accompanying delegation of senior executives, consultants and financial analysts, visited the FCSA to discuss mutual areas of cooperation between the two entities.
Both teams discussed various topics related to the investment environment in UAE, attending to investors’ interests and attracting development projects that contribute to the sustainability of UAE economic sectors.
“We are glad to have had the opportunity to understand FCSA’s role in boosting its competitiveness in global reports and indicators”, said Mr. Beer. He also hailed FCSA’s interest in collaborating with stakeholders who can influence UAE’s ranking and performance in competitiveness reports, and all the current effort being exerted to maintain an attractive investment environment in the UAE.
“In addition to contributing to UAE’s future plans to become a knowledge-based economy, it is very important that investors have access to accurate data and statistics that reflect market conditions”, said Mr. Beer.
H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director General, addressed the visiting delegation by underlining that the meeting was fruitful and valuable while stressing the importance of partnerships and cooperation in issues of mutual interest.
He also featured the role of the DRA in protecting investors. He affirmed: “Indeed, the DRA is keen to attend to the interests of the investment environment in the Emirate of Dubai and the implications of such an environment on the financial sector in UAE as a whole, which could reflect positively on the country’s performance in global competitiveness rankings.”
Noteworthy, FCSA is so dedicated to promoting joint cooperation with various authorities and institutions in both public and private sectors. By the end of 2017, FCSA hosted more than 60 official delegations and visits at its headquarters, that is receiving more than one official visit per week from various local and out of the country entities. Indeed, FCSA believes in the importance of participatory work aiming at achieving joint interests and future visions for a knowledge-based society which is supported by accurate and transparent statistics and data based on innovation.
H.E. Abdulla Lootah is the Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Knowledge Exchange, delivered a lecture at the New York University (NYU) in the United States.
During the lecture, His Excellency called for the strengthening of academic and research partnerships to achieve the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
The lecture was attended by NYU graduate students from the School of Professional Studies, the Global Affairs and Global Security Program, and Conflict and Cybercrime Program, and the Division in Programs in Business and Global Sport.
His Excellency discussed the importance of the role of academic institutions and universities in promoting international cooperation and partnership, knowledge exchange, capacity building, and excellence in the research and development efforts. He reiterated that doing so will also contribute to SDG 17 – which calls for plans to revitalize global partnerships for sustainable development.
Attended by Angie Kamath, Dean of the NYU School of Professional Studies, along with NYU’s administrative, academic, and research members, the lecture highlighted the UAE’s multi-faceted competitiveness, positioning it as a worldwide focal point for visionaries, researchers, and accomplished professionals who have chosen the UAE as their home and workplace.
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center (FCSC) revealed the results of the UAE Security Quality of Life Survey 2021, which indicated that the level of trust in the police agencies in the country and their reliance in law enforcement exceeded 98.4%. The survey was conducted in the field and included a wide range of individuals in public places aged 18 years and over, males and females, in all emirates of the country. The field survey aimed to measure the opinion of the community in the UAE about the quality of security life in the country, the extent of the general impression of the community about the levels of feeling safe, the extent of trust in the Ministry of Interior agencies, the level of trust in police stations in the country and the extent to which they feel reliable by members of the community in the country.
Trust
Hanan Ahli, Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center, said: "The results of the UAE Security Quality of Life Survey 2021 are among the highest in the world, and it is a source of pride and confidence in the security and police agencies shown by the community in the UAE, and the percentage of trust in the police in the country and its reliance in law enforcement exceeded 98.4%.
The percentage of feeling Safety when roaming alone outside the house at night 97.5%, as well as the result of the third indicator, which is to measure the extent of trust in the police station near you, achieved 96.4%.
Her Excellency continued: "The UAE Security Quality of Life Survey is one of the innovative surveys, which reflects an accurate impression of the reality of society, and the high confidence shown by the survey outputs in the police and security apparatus in the country, as well as the results of the global competitiveness reports issued by international institutions.
The UAE ranked first globally in the feeling of safely walking alone at night in the "Law and Order 2021" report issued by the international research firm "Gallup", and this advanced level achieved by the UAE in both field survey results or excellence in global competitiveness reports is attributed to the wise directives of the wise leadership in the country, and the tireless efforts made by the police and security agencies, led by the Ministry of Interior under the leadership of Lt. General His Highness Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister. Minister of the Interior.
His Excellency Mohamed Hassan, Executive Director of the Statistics Sector at the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center: "The high results achieved by the indicators of confidence in the Ministry of Interior and safety indicators, which were shown by the UAE Security and Quality of Life Survey, are a reflection of the extent of the UAE society’s confidence in the police and security apparatus in the country. Which was measured with high accuracy, through personal interviews that surveyed the opinions of those included in the random sample, and conducted by field researchers from the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center, as well as the teams of national statistical centers in the country".
Methodology
It is worth mentioning that the Security and Quality of Life Survey, which has been measured by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center since 2017, is carried out through an approved methodology designed within a representative sample of the community and collected through local statistics centers in the country. The data is analyzed, conclusions and outputs are drawn then recommendations and proposals get submitted to decision-makers to support the improvement of policies and the formulation of initiatives and improvement plans that increase the sense of security in the UAE society.
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center (FCSC) has signed an memorandum of understanding with the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) to enhance national capabilities in data science and artificial intelligence. This came within the activities of the " Mobilising Big Data and Data Science for the Sustainable Development Goals" forum, which was organized at Expo 2020 Dubai in cooperation with the United Nations Expert Group on Big Data and Official Statistics. The partnership seeks to establish a foundation for mutual strategic cooperation between national institutions in supporting youth issues, developing artificial intelligence applications and data science, and building national capacities to accelerate the achievement of sustainable development goals.
The agreement aims to consolidate strategic cooperation between the two parties by providing specialized training programs in the field of artificial intelligence and data science.
Professor Eric Xing, President of MBZUAI, said: "The signing of this agreement with the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center represents an important step towards building national capabilities in the field of data and artificial intelligence by aligning projects and training programs with national goals, both employees and students at the university will benefit from this cooperation.
Her Excellency Hanan Ahli, Acting Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center, said that this memorandum represents a roadmap for joint cooperation and benefiting from artificial intelligence solutions and applications to be used by experts at the center to analyze and process data, as well as providing the opportunity to use data in the research and projects of university students as well as in the research of professors and researchers.
Data and technology experts applaud the launch of the global platform for big data for sustainable development goals in the United Arab Emirates.
Several high-ranking officials and experts from government and private sectors, as well as those working in the information and communications technology sector in the country, have commended the importance of the launch of the United Nations platform for big data for sustainable development goals. This launch took place at Expo Dubai 2020 and was attended by more than 86 international experts in 16 sessions. It was witnessed by high-ranking government officials in the country, United Nations officials, and big data experts from more than 22 countries around the world, in addition to top executives from various international and national companies, as well as academics and students.
Regarding the importance of the forum, Dr. Saeed Saif Al Matrooshi, Secretary-General of the Ajman Executive Council, emphasized that the Government of Ajman, under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman and Chairman of the Executive Council, is eager to learn about distinguished practices and pioneering experiences to stay updated with developments and propose innovative solutions in the field of big data. Big data has revolutionized the world of statistics and its future globally.
His Excellency Ahmed Mahmoud Fikri, Director-General of SCAD, stressed the importance of participation and cooperation in global events and conferences related to big data and artificial intelligence technologies, especially those related to achieving sustainable development goals. He highlighted the global and regional significance of this forum, held in conjunction with Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week. The week serves as a platform bringing together experts, decision-makers, government officials, and business leaders from the region and around the world to exchange experiences and discuss best practices.
Eng. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Deputy Director-General of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority for the Information and Digital Government Sector, stated that the launch of the United Nations Big Data Platform for Sustainable Development Goals in the UAE marks a significant qualitative leap in the country’s strategic role in all areas related to digital transformation, particularly in the big data sector. The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) is pleased to participate in this forum due to its substantial value and impact in utilizing data to achieve sustainable development goals for the benefit of humanity.
His Excellency Younus Al Nasser, Assistant Director-General at Digital Dubai and CEO of Dubai Data Establishment, emphasized the effective contribution of public and private sector data to accelerate the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. By collaborating and analyzing available data from cities, use cases can be identified that not only stimulate economic growth but also have a positive impact on people and the environment.
Her Excellency Thuraya Al Hashimi, Executive Director of the Digital Data Enabling Sector at FCSC, attributed the success of the UAE in hosting the regional headquarters to the collective efforts of the center’s team and the support of its government and national statistical center partners in the country. They have worked closely with the scientific community, researchers, and statisticians, all of whom have commended the UAE’s efforts in keeping pace with global developments and advancing new methodologies and frameworks to link various big data systems while adapting to changes in the global statistical system. This effort also supports global initiatives aimed at achieving sustainable development goals.
Eng. Anwar Mohammed Al-Shammari, Executive Director of the Geospatial Information Governance Sector at the Federal Center for Geographical Information, stressed the importance of promoting and developing the big data sector and industry in the country. This sector plays a strategic role in the country’s journey toward digital transformation and enhances the role of data in supporting efforts to achieve sustainable development goals, particularly in the spatial data sector.
Dr. Hajar Al Hubaishi, Executive Director of Ajman Statistics and Competitiveness Center, underlined the significance of building strategic partnerships and exchanging experiences to promote access to a knowledge-based economy, aligning with the strategic goal of the country.
Dina Fares, Acting Director General of Ajman Digital Government, emphasized that the launch of the platform represents a significant qualitative leap in the strategic role played by the UAE in the big data sector and in achieving sustainable development goals.
Among private sector participants, Samer Assem, General Manager of Al Mazrouei & Partners, highlighted that big data has become an essential tool for the success of businesses in various industries, especially those relying on digital infrastructure for manufacturing, sales, or distribution.
Eng. Waleed Al-Nokrashy, CEO of UAE Digital Lab, specializing in digital transformation, emphasized that the advanced infrastructure of the UAE makes it a focal point for international companies specialized in data, creating an inspiring environment for smart societies.
The forum witnessed the development of strategic partnerships and received substantial support from local and international entities in the public and private sectors, both locally and globally.
Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy: The UAE has placed sustainable development at the heart of its strategies since its establishment to ensure prosperity and development
Minister of State for International Cooperation and Chair of the National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals, Her Excellency Reem Bint Ibrahim Al Hashimy, affirmed that the government of the United Arab Emirates adopts the Sustainable Development Goals and supports the United Nations’ vision in accelerating the achievement of these goals for the betterment of societies and people.
This came on the occasion of holding the first meetings of the Committee for the year 2022 within the agenda Global Sustainable Development Goals Week, held from From 15 to 19 January, at Expo 2020 Dubai.
Her Excellency said that under the directions of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan president of the United Arab Emirates, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Nahyan Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander for the armed forces, the UAE is keen to maintain its advanced position and to Remains the global leader in launching the most important programs and initiatives that support communities humanity around the world, and playing a leading and active role in achieving development goals sustainable, based on an innovative scientific methodology based on Visions & Plans A knowledge-based strategy based on factual and accurate data and statistics reflects the reality of the world."
The Chairperson of the Committee stressed that the UAE has put sustainable development in the core of its plans and strategies since its establishment, to ensure the prosperity and development of the country and its citizens. Noting the importance of joint work between all federal and local government entities, and effective coordination between the government and private sectors and strengthening partnership with the community to achieve the objectives of the agenda in the country.
Her Excellency said: "There is not much time left for the deadline, international communities must focus on action and implementation by 2030. The challenges facing the world are growing in magnitude and complexity, it has therefore become vital to adopt immediate solutions that mitigate obstacles relatively smaller, enabling individuals and organizations to operate efficiently and effectively with the biggest and most complex challenges in the medium and long term."
Her Excellency commended the committee members for their dedicated efforts in advancing diverse social, economic, and environmental initiatives both within the country and internationally. She emphasized that the Sustainable Development Goals are more than just a global approach or an international agenda; they are a humanitarian mission aimed at enhancing societies and the well-being of individuals, who are the foundation of developmental endeavors in communities. The Sustainable Development Goals play a significant and pivotal role within Expo 2020, offering an unprecedented opportunity to spearhead global efforts towards ensuring a sustainable future, fostering positive transformations, and envisioning new horizons in the field of sustainability, not only within the UAE but also on a global scale.
His Excellency Abdullah Lootah: "The year 2022 is very important in the UAE’s journey to achieve sustainability goals, as it coincides with the beginning of the country’s march towards the next fifty years"
The meeting was chaired by H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah, Vice Chairman of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, chaired the first meeting in 2022, which witnessed the attendance of Dr. Hussein Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Under-Secretary for Centres and Health Clinics in the Ministry of Health and Prevention; Hanan Mansour Ahli, Acting Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, and members of the National Committee on SDGs. A number of sessions, presentations and discussions were held, reviewing various initiatives and steps taken by the Committee during the past year, and discussed strategies and priorities for the next stage, including efforts and plans to promote the achievement of development goals in the nation.
Abdullah Lootah stated that 2022 marks a significant milestone in the UAE’s journey towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. This coincides with the commencement of the nation’s journey towards the next fifty years, during which various initiatives and programs will be launched to support the vision of the wise leadership in realizing the pillars of the UAE Centennial 2071. This effort aligns with global sustainability priorities and has been recognized by the United Nations as a "decade of work" dedicated to achieving these goals.
Hanan Ahli: New plans, ideas and initiatives reflect positively on the process of achieving Sustainable Development Goals.
H.E. Hanan Mansour Ahli, Acting Director of the Federal Competitiveness Statistics Centre, remarked that the committee members and their dedicated teams demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability. Despite the challenges posed by the global landscape, be it the lingering impacts of the "Covid-19" pandemic or the fluctuations in climate and geopolitical dynamics, they successfully developed plans, ideas, initiatives, and proposals for the year 2022. These discussions and deliberations exemplified a shared spirit of integration, consensus, and unwavering determination to propel the UAE forward.
Hanan Ahli further emphasized, "The UAE has made significant strides in the realm of sustainable development, receiving accolades from major international institutions that meticulously assess the country’s performance across a wide array of competitive indicators tied to sustainable development. The UAE proudly claimed the top global ranking in 97 of these indicators linked to Sustainable Development Goals and secured a position among the top ten on a global scale in 268 other indicators. To reinforce our leadership position both regionally and internationally, it becomes imperative to redouble government efforts in the pursuit of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Additionally, fostering collaborations between the public and private sectors is vital to advance these objectives, making sustainable development an overarching societal priority in the UAE."
She noted, "The comprehensive data supplied by government agencies plays a pivotal role in advancing the UAE’s endeavors to realize the Sustainable Development Goals. It aids in the development of innovative initiatives and informed decision-making based on precise and accurate data." Hanan Ahli emphasized the significance of harnessing the global platform provided by Expo 2020 and the array of international events and activities it hosts. These events offer a unique opportunity to showcase the UAE’s successful experiences in achieving these goals on a global stage.
Projects Fast and high-impact companies.
During the meeting, committee members reached a consensus on the paramount importance of prioritizing planning and executing projects and initiatives that are characterized by their swiftness and ease of implementation, while also ensuring they yield substantial and clearly visible impacts. They underscored the significance of collaborative efforts among the government agencies involved in the Committee to reinforce the nation’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals.
Furthermore, the meeting highlighted the most prominent efforts and initiatives undertaken at both national and international levels. It was noted that the global partnerships established by the UAE have played a crucial role in assisting countries and communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. This support included providing medical and food assistance to various parts of the world, aligning with the objectives of Sustainable Development, such as eradicating hunger, combating poverty, and ensuring access to sound healthcare, among other vital goals.
The National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals, established in 2017, is dedicated to the implementation of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. This committee plays a pivotal role in aligning the UAE’s national development priorities with the UN’s developmental goals, facilitating information-sharing among stakeholders, and supporting the integrated implementation of these developmental objectives. Comprising of 17 members, its mission is to provide essential support for goal implementation, monitor progress, and engage stakeholders in the collective efforts to achieve these objectives. Additionally, the committee collaborates in aligning sustainable development goals with the UAE’s national agenda, including the National Wellbeing Strategy, and works in coordination with the youth, the private sector, and knowledge institutions to ensure the effective implementation of these vital development goals.
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