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The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre Participates in the GCC Economic Competitiveness Forum to Establish a Unified Framework
08 Dec 2024
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC) participated in the first Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Economic Competitiveness Forum, organised by Qatar’s Ministry of Finance in collaboration with the World Economic Forum.
The forum brought together representatives from GCC member states with the aim of establishing a unified framework to enhance economic competitiveness, expand areas of cooperation, and build future partnerships. The goal was to improve the GCC’s standings in global competitiveness reports and indices. During the event, the FCSC shared insights into the UAE’s institutionalised approach to managing global competitiveness, through an operational framework overseen by the National Competitiveness Committee.
The forum featured two key sessions: "The Future of GCC Competitiveness" and "Methodologies of Global Reports." These sessions highlighted the role of GCC competitiveness centres in shaping strategies and policies to bolster the region’s competitive capabilities.
Participants also discussed the Global Competitiveness Report issued by the World Economic Forum, which assesses the performance of 141 countries across 103 indicators, grouped into 12 main pillars. These include macroeconomic stability, infrastructure, innovation capacity, and business dynamism.
Hanan Ahli: Achieving GCC Aspirations for global Leadership in Competitiveness Indices
Her Excellency Hanan Mansour Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, stated that the UAE’s participation in the forum reflects the depth of partnerships among GCC member states and the UAE leadership’s commitment to advancing collaborative efforts. These endeavours aim to achieve shared ambitions and position the GCC as a leader in global competitiveness indices.
She noted that the FCSC, operating within an organisational framework led by the National Competitiveness Committee, has developed an innovative and modern model. This approach enables the professional management of the competitiveness portfolio, fostering transformative change and realising future aspirations.
It is worth noting that the FCSC monitors more than 22 competitiveness reports issued by international organisations and tracks over 1,350 global competitiveness indicators across critical sectors such as the economy, health, education, and gender balance. The Centre aligns its efforts with global trends that enhance the UAE’s competitiveness, ensuring its appeal regionally and internationally.
The National Committee on SDGs Emphasises the Importance of Investing in Young Talents and Enhancing International Partnerships
13 Nov 2024
His Excellency Abdulla Lootah, Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chairman of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, emphasised the UAE’s wise leadership’s commitment to investing in Emirati youth, highlighting the nation’s dedication to equipping young talents with the skills necessary to contribute to shaping the UAE’s future vision and advancing sustainable development efforts. H.E. noted that the National Committee on SDGs has actively empowered youth to engage in strategic planning and decision-making processes, pinpointing their pivotal role in implementing sustainability agendas both nationally and globally.
This came during the fourth committee meeting, attended by Her Excellency Maria Hanif Al Qassim, Assistant Undersecretary for Policies and Economic Studies at the Ministry of Economy; His Excellency Nasser Ismail, Assistant Undersecretary of Social Welfare at the Ministry of Community Development; Her Excellency Eng. Alia Abdul Rahim Al Harmoudi, Assistant Undersecretary for Sustainable Communities at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment; His Excellency Dr. Hassan Obaid Al Mheiri, Assistant Undersecretary for Policies and Economic Studies at the Ministry of Education; and Her Excellency Hanan Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC).
In addition to, Her Excellency Bérangère Boell-Yousfi, United Nations Resident Coordinator in the UAE; Eng. Nawal Yousef AlHanaee, Director of Future Energy at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure; His Excellency Maywand Jabarkhyl, CEO of the Fatima bint Mohamed bin Zayed Initiative (FBMI), members of the Youth Advisory Council for Sustainable Development Goals, and representatives from the Ministry of Interior attended the meeting.
The meeting reviewed the achievements of the Youth Advisory Council for Sustainable Development Goals in its second term and its pivotal role in supporting decision-making, thus ensuring inclusive policies to align with the aspirations of future generations.
Youth Advisory Council Achievements
The Youth Advisory Council for Sustainable Development Goals highlighted its key accomplishments in promoting national efforts toward sustainable development. The council launched several initiatives, including "Knowledge Without Borders," which shared the best sustainability practices with over 27 countries, and "Art and Culture for SDGs" which established more than six partnerships to enhance the art and culture ecosystem for sustainability. During COP28, the council hosted a series of international dialogue sessions, with the most notable being the "Health and Climate Change Forum." which focused on exploring the future of healthcare and enhancing preparedness for emerging health-related challenges.
National and Global Updates
Bérangère Boell-Yousfi made a presentation to the committee members, summarising key outcomes from the "Summit of the Future" held by the United Nations in New York in September. The presentation focused on international efforts to accelerate sustainable development, emphasising the importance of international and regional cooperation in achieving sustainable development, and the role of data in tracking progress on both the national and global levels.
The committee further discussed updates on the national plan on SDGs, where Her Excellency Maria Al Qassim presented the Ministry of Economy’s sustainability initiatives, including plans for sustainable tourism, circular economy, sustainable financing, and initiatives to encourage the private sector to adopt the sustainability agenda.
Humanitarian Efforts Focused on Sustainability
The Fatima bint Mohamed bin Zayed Initiative team presented the initiative’s achievements, focusing on sustainability and empowering low-income Afghan communities that have faced significant challenges over the past three decades due to wars and natural disasters. The initiative employed over 8,000 Afghans, 70% of whom are women, provided monthly healthcare to over 25,000 people, and enabled 20,000 children to attend school, providing aid to a total of 1.8 million people.
The National Committee on SDGs is responsible for coordinating efforts among entities to align national policies, strategies, and targets with sustainable development goals, fostering and building national skills to achieve these goals, addressing challenges through partnerships at the local and global levels, preparing national reports, and managing the collection and sharing of SDG data across the UAE.
FCSC Promotes Global Partnerships with International Statistical Offices at the BRICS Meeting
11 Nov 2024
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC) participated in the 16th Meeting of Heads of BRICS National Statistical Agencies, held in Kazan, Russia. The meeting comes within the activities of the BRICS Summit, in which the UAE participates for the first time as a member of the BRICS.
Meeting of Heads of BRICS National Statistical Agencies serves as an effective platform for decision-makers, statisticians, and global experts in big data, paving the way for sharing knowledge, exploring collaboration opportunities, and getting acquainted with cutting-edge, statistics-related scientific and innovative technologies. The meeting focused on implementing impactful projects and initiatives to support the ongoing evaluation of emerging global needs.
Hanan Ahli: An Opportunity to Highlight the UAE’s Leadership in Digital Transformation and Statistical Excellence
Her Excellency Hanan Mansour Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, stated that participating in this important event provided an opportunity to build bridges and foster effective partnerships with the National Statistics Offices of the BRICS. Furthermore, it paved the way for developing global and innovative statistical systems, using top-notch, reliable data to showcase the UAE’s pioneering model in digital transformation and the application of state-of-the-art solutions to achieve statistical excellence, support development programmes, and address future needs and challenges.
H.E. Hanan Ahli said that the UAE and its statistical landscape are committed to continuously enhancing the national statistical effectiveness, leveraging modern tools and methodologies to ensure the publication of reliable data on the UAE Unified Numbers, through efficient, adaptable, and agile statistical systems that uphold the highest standards of integrity, while adapting to evolving changes.
"We look forward to building effective partnerships with the National Statistics Offices of BRICS as we approach the activation of the UAE’s membership in the United Nations Statistical Commission, 2025-2028. Our goal is to develop statistical communities, build capacities, and exchange expertise in the fields of statistical governance, the use of big data, and leveraging data science in developing official statistics," she added.
The BRICS Joint Statistical Publication 2024
During the meeting, the "BRICS Joint Statistical Publication 2024", compiled by representatives from the National Statistics Offices of BRICS countries, was launched. It features key economic and social statistics and indices of member countries, such as GDP, inflation rates, price indices, population, employment, and unemployment indicators, etc. Members highlighted that promoting statistical partnerships and cooperation is pivotal to achieving fruitful outcomes in the BRICS statistical activities.
The UAE delegation held bilateral meetings with H.E. Dr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary General of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation of India, and H.E. Mao Shengyong, Deputy Commissioner of the National Bureau of Statistics of China. The meetings focused on the development of statistical systems, enhancing the role of statistics and data in future readiness across vital sectors, utilising alternative technologies and AI tools for data collection and analysis to support decision-making and strategic planning.
UAE is the 1st globally in the Network Readiness Index according to the UN E-Government Survey 2024
25 Sep 2024
The UAE achieved a perfect score of 100 percent in Telecommunication Infrastructure Index (first in the world), the 1st place in the Human Capital Index in Asia and the Arab world, and the first position in the world in the Content Provisioning and Institutional Framework sub-indices.
Talal Belhoul Al-Falasi:
“With these results, we benefit from the achievements of the efforts of the government, and the minds and hands of the people of this generous nation under the vision of our wise leadership."
Majed Sultan Al-Masmar:
“We appreciate the efforts of our partners whether federal or local government entities, or telecommunications service providers (Etisalat & e and du), who have worked together as one national team in the digital transformation journey."
Hanan Mansoor Ahli:
“The results of the UN E-Government Survey reflect the UAE’s effectiveness of the digital government enablers and the integration of data and statistics across various government entities.”
The Telecommunications & Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) announced that the United Arab Emirates has achieved outstanding results in a number of indicators related to government and digital services as per the United Nations E-Government Survey 2024, which focuses on the role of governments in accelerating digital transformation and artificial intelligence for sustainable development, and providing services that enhance the quality of life of community members.
The UAE in the lead
The report announced by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN-DESA) indicated that the UAE ranks first globally in the Telecommunication Infrastructure Index (TII), with a full score of 100%. The report also indicates that the UAE advanced 34 points in the Human Capital Index (HCI), moving from 44th to 10th place, and getting placed first in Asia and the Arab world in this index. This result reflects the considerable efforts made towards national competencies in the UAE, and provide them with the necessary skills to navigate the era of accelerated digital transformation and technological shifts.
The report pointed out that the UAE belongs to the top rated countries in the E-Government Development Index (EGDI), which constitutes the general framework for a set of criteria. The UAE achieved a score of 95%, and advanced two places from what it had achieved in the previous assessment in 2022; thus, maintaining its position on the list of most developed countries in the world.
Among the results of the report are also the UAE’s full score in the e-government literacy (EGL) index, and the world’s first full score in the content provisioning and institutional framework standards, which are two sub-indices of the Online Service Index (OSI).
A new peak
His Excellency Talal Belhoul Al Falasi, Chairman of TDRA, praised the results achieved by the UAE in the UN E-Government Survey 2024, which reflects the efforts of various federal and local government entities, saying: “With these results, the UAE has established a new milestone in its journey towards a brighter future, led by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, along with the government. Today, we reap the rewards of a track record of efforts and achievements by the minds of the people of this generous country, in order to solidify the foundations of a digital knowledge society and economy, leveraging cutting-edge technologies, particularly AI and other transformative technologies”.
His Excellency affirmed, "The UAE’s progress in digital government is an outstanding model in integrating human creativity with technology to facilitate people’s lives. The UAE government has been proactive in investing in the telecommunications sector as part of a forward-looking vision in line with the directives of the wise leadership. For over more than two decades, major investments have been made in telecommunications infrastructure. This, accompanied by the upskilling of government cadres has reflected on our country’s progress in this vital sector, which represents the basis of sustainability and creating the future."
One team; one goal
For his part, H.E. Eng. Majed Sultan Al Mesmar, Director-General of TDRA, stressed that the UAE’s keenness to develop the ICT sector stems from the vision of the wise leadership that this sector is the backbone of development and driver for all other sectors.
H.E. said, "When it comes to global competitiveness and sustainable development strategies, the Telecommunication infrastructure Index stands out as one of the most important pillars as it reflects the level of progress of countries in employing future technologies to create the desired future. We are proud that the results of this index placed the UAE at the forefront of the global scene, and we are reaping the fruits of a long journey of pioneership, effective strategies, insightful vision and joint efforts. Today, the UAE has become an inspiring story in the systematic digital transformation, which supports the digital economy and smart cities based on the principles of inclusive government, customer centricity, business continuity and proactivity. If these results have put us on the top globally, we see this as an important incentive for us to continue to implement the strategic motto of Vision 2031, which is to move from one milestone to another."
H.E. added "Of course, I cannot fail to point out that this index is not the only one in which we have achieved full leadership, as we are today in the first place in Asia and the Arab region in the Human Capital Index, and we have achieved a full score in the e-government literacy sub-index, first in content provisioning and first in institutional framework in the OSI. I would like to point out that these achievements would not have been possible without the spirit of partnership that we shared with federal and local government entities, and especially with telecom service providers in the country (e& and du). I extend my thanks and appreciation to them all.”
On her part, H.E. Hanan Mansoor Ahli, Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC), said, “The results of the UN E-Government Survey 2024 are a reflection of the effectiveness of digital government enablers, and the efficient telecommunications infrastructure that supports Intergovernmental Integration projects and initiatives. It is also a reflection on the integration of data and statistics, which enhance the implementation of future technologies to ensure government readiness for a sustainable future.”
The UN report highlights TDRA’s efforts to enhance capabilities in digital transformation, and the focus on developing governance and public services by adopting several initiatives. One such initiative being the unified automated chat platform for government services, "U-Ask", which relies on generative artificial intelligence to ensure smooth access to e-government services. Efforts also include the Federal Network (FedNet) initiative, which contributes to enhancing the digital efficiency through AI solutions, and the digital national identity initiative "UAE PASS", which is the first digital national identity for all citizens, residents and visitors, allowing users to access services of local and federal government entities, and other service providers. The UAE also applies best standards and global practices to ensure consistency and accessibility across federal government websites.
The UN-DESA launched its report entitled "e-Government Survey” for the first time in 2003, to be released every two years to monitor the extent of development in digital governments and determine the progress levels in their various tracks. The survey primarily aims to help decision-makers and those responsible for digital transformation to proceed with their plans based on reliable analytics and benchmarks which include government portals, services, content, e-participation, data, etc. regionally and locally. The UN-DESA has been developing its standards in this regard in line with emerging developments and technologies, in order to achieve compatibility between such standards and the SDGs as they stand today.
The National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals stresses the importance of the availability of modern data and statistics to introduce the country’s efforts globally
19 Sep 2024
The National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals stressed the importance of the availability of modern data and statistics to introduce the UAE’s efforts globally in all vital sectors, and the need to expand the base of specialized national experts to facilitate the implementation of sustainable development goals, enhance efforts to ensure data standardization, improve the quality of associated reports, and improve coordination levels between national and international bodies to ensure transparency and reduce duplication in efforts to accelerate the achievement of global goals.
This came during the third meeting of the committee chaired by Abdullah Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Knowledge Exchange and Chairman of the National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals, and in the presence of Her Excellency Maria Hanif Al Qassim, Assistant Undersecretary for Economic Policies and Studies Sector at the Ministry of Economy, His Excellency Nasser Ismail, Assistant Undersecretary for Social Welfare Affairs at the Ministry of Community Development, Her Excellency Eng. Alia Abdul Rahim Al Harmoodi, Assistant Undersecretary for Sustainable Communities Sector at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, and His Excellency Hassan Obaid Al Muhairi, Assistant Undersecretary for Policies and Economic Studies Sector in Ministry of Education.
The meeting was also attended by HE Hanan Mansour Ahli, Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center, HE Colonel Dr. Rashid Khalfan Al Dhakhri, Deputy Director of the General Department of Strategy and Performance Development at the Ministry of Interior, HE Rashid Mohammed Al Hemeiri, Director of the Development and International Cooperation Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Eng. Nawal Yousef Al Hinai, Director of the Future Energy Department at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure.
Abdullah Lootah stressed that the UAE leadership focuses on enhancing investment in national talents and cadres in order to enhance their participation in achieving the country’s future visions and directions, and enhance its contribution to advancing and accelerating efforts to achieve sustainable development goals, stressing the importance of integration in the national effort and expanding cooperation, partnership and coordination at the international level to achieve global development goals.
Abdullah Lootah said that the National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals has worked since its inception to support national initiatives aimed at achieving the sustainable development goals, and to enhance national capacity-building efforts to enable them to participate in this global march, which reflects the keenness of the country. The UAE is actively involved in creating a better future for future generations.
During the meeting, the members of the committee stressed the importance of enhancing transparency in the exchange of data between national and international bodies to ensure consistency of reports and achieve integration between the concerned parties, and reviewed a number of successful international experiences in improving data systems and the possibility of benefiting from them in supporting the national system for data collection and analysis.
The meeting stressed the importance of focusing on achieving sustainability indicators comprehensively through coordination at the national and global levels and improving data flow, in addition to focusing on building the capacity of national task forces through training programs that adopt continuous learning to ensure the sustainability of data quality, and discussed ways to improve the availability of data related to the sustainable development goals, the main challenges in the subject of data, in terms of its quality and flow, and efforts to apply international standards in data collection.
The meeting reviewed the latest developments in the work of the Committee in ensuring the continuation of data collection related to the Sustainable Development Goals, coordinating meetings to review indicators, and continuing to work in partnership with international organizations to build Capacity in the field of methodologies for calculating indicator data, and working with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) on a plan to harmonize and update data, review data availability and the rate of achievement of data indicators.
Members of the committee discussed ways to enhance work and coordination with the concerned authorities to spread the culture of sustainability and awareness of the sustainable development goals, and activate community partnerships to highlight the UAE’s efforts in this field.
The members of the committee were briefed on the achievements of joint work to achieve the sustainable development goals, as the last period witnessed the participation of more than 350 people in meetings that dealt with enhancing cooperation with 34 international organizations, as well as cooperation with 37 federal and local government agencies, in addition to the implementation of more than 100 hours of workshops and events, and the focus was on building national capacities through 24 workshops, while 27 technical meetings were held to follow up on the implementation of the national plan.
The participants learned about the level of progress in achieving the sustainable development goals through the National Data Plan, which increased during 2024 to 58%, compared to 42% achieved last year. The global achievement rate of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) this year is 17%, according to the recently announced by UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
It is noteworthy that the National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals undertakes a number of key tasks, including coordinating with the concerned authorities to align and review national policies, strategies and targets with the sustainable development goals, building and strengthening national capacities to achieve sustainable development goals and face challenges through partnerships locally and globally, preparing national reports on the country’s results and efforts to achieve the sustainable development goals, and coordinating with the authorities to prepare and disseminate data related to sustainable development goals at the state level.
UAE’s GDP hits AED430 billion in Q1 2024
09 Sep 2024
ABU DHABI, 9th September, 2024 — Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, said that the preliminary estimates of the UAE’s GDP growth in the Q1 2024, issued by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC), underline the resilience and vitality of the national economy and exemplify its ability to continue on the path of sustainable growth.
He highlighted that the country’s real GDP reached AED430 billion in Q1 2024, recording a remarkable growth of 3.4 percent compared to the same period in 2023, while the non-oil GDP grew by 4 percent compared to the same period last year.
"Under the guidance of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, the country adopted an innovative economic model that supports its future vision, along with effective national economic strategies, enhancing openness to the world, promoting partnerships, and transitioning towards an economic model based on flexibility and innovation," Bin Touq added.
He emphasised that the national economy’s positive results reinforce achieving the economic objectives of the "We the UAE 2031" vision, which includes raising the country’s GDP to AED3 trillion by the next decade.
Hanan Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, said, "The financial and economic data and indicators endorsing the growth of the UAE’s GDP Q1 2024 reflect the resilience of the country’s vital economic sectors. It highlights the effectiveness of the concerted efforts to implement wise leadership’s directives to enhance sustainable economic diversification, reduce dependence on oil, promote investments, and attract capital and innovative and emerging projects to the country."
She added that the UAE’s advanced rankings in multiple global economic competitiveness indicators can be attributed to several factors, including the stability of the financial system, the strength of the national economy, and the effectiveness of economic legislation and policies applied in the country, besides their ability to adapt to changes and face regional and global challenges.
Based on the data released by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, financial and insurance activities have emerged as the leading non-oil economic sector contributing to the UAE’s GDP growth, with a remarkable growth of 7.9 percent. This growth can be attributed to the significant increase in the local credit granted to the private sector, which led to a six percent growth and positively impacted the rebound of non-oil economic activities.
Following closely behind in the second place are transportation and storage activities, which grew 7.3 percent. This growth was driven by a notable increase in the number of travellers at the country’s airports during the first three months of this year, reaching 36.5 million travellers, a growth rate of 14.7 percent compared to the same period last year.
The UAE’s ports have demonstrated exceptional performance during this time, with Dubai’s international ports witnessing a 3.7 percent growth in the number of containers handled, while Abu Dhabi’s ports experienced a 36 percent increase in cargo handling volume on an annual basis.
Ranking third, construction and building activities experienced a growth rate of 6.2 percent, which aligns with the several development projects initiated by the UAE government in early 2024. They saw a substantial rise in the government’s public capital expenditures, reaching AED4.8 billion, compared to that of Q1 2023.
The restaurant and hotel sector secured the fourth spot with a 4.6 percent growth during the first quarter of 2024 compared to the corresponding period in 2023. Moreover, the UAE emerged at the forefront of the global tourism landscape, attracting a substantial number of tourists from around the world.
In particular, Dubai witnessed a remarkable influx of 5.18 million international tourists, representing an 11 percent increase compared to the corresponding period in 2023. Abu Dhabi also maintained its exceptional performance in key tourism indicators, including the average hotel occupancy rates and revenue per available rooms.
Trade activities made the largest contribution to the non-oil GDP, accounting for 16.1 percent. Manufacturing activities come in second at 14.6 percent, with financial and insurance activities ranking third at a rate of 13.4 percent.
Construction and building activities contribute 11.8 percent, followed by real estate activities with a contribution of 7.1 percent.
Discussing efforts to achieve Gulf statistical excellence at the global level
20 Aug 2024
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center discussed with a delegation from the Statistical Centre for the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, the national and joint efforts of the GCC countries towards achieving global statistical excellence, and the two sides discussed ways to enhance fruitful cooperation frameworks and expand areas of future partnerships.
This came within a visit by the delegation of the Statistical Centre for the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, headed by Intisar bint Abdullah Al-Wahaibi, Director General of the Center, during which she met with Hanan Mansour Ahli, Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center and the Federal Center team.
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre plays an active role in the Standing Committee for Statistical Work Affairs of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, which includes the heads and directors of national statistical agencies in the member states, in addition to a representative from the General Secretariat of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, and the Director General of the Gulf Statistical Center, and the Committee supports the Gulf statistical work roadmap, efforts to harmonize and coordinate work in the region and enhance statistical capacities in the demographic, social, economic, environmental, energy and tourism sectors. Methodologies and data quality, indicators of development, progress and sustainability, information and statistical awareness.
National Projects
The meeting discussed the strategic national statistical projects of the UAE, their role in serving development programs at the national and international levels, and their contribution to improving the UAE’s competitiveness in global reports and indicators and achieving the goals of sustainable development 2030, and the meeting praised the role of the GCC Statistical Center in monitoring figures and statistics concerned with vital sectors in the GCC countries, and introducing the experience and specificity of the GCC countries and what they represent of a unified economic and social bloc, in addition to supporting National strategic decision-making and planning processes for current and future Gulf projects.
Strengthening Gulf work mechanisms
Hanan Mansour Ahli affirmed the firm commitment of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre in the UAE, to support the strengthening of the mechanisms of joint statistical work of the Gulf statistical centers, and the employment of modern and innovative technologies and harnessing big data science and artificial intelligence to serve the development of vital sectors and keep pace with international practices In the field of statistics.
She praised the efforts and initiatives of the Statistical Center for the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, and its effective role in raising the efficiency of the Gulf statistical system.
UAE Model For
her part, Intisar bint Abdullah Al Wahaibia praised the efforts of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center in highlighting the UAE’s pioneering statistical model, which was reflected in her selection as a member of the United Nations Statistical Commission for the period 2025-2028, noting that the UAE’s membership in the United Nations Statistical Commission contributes to strengthening the joint Gulf statistical work.
She said that the distinguished level of cooperation between national statistical centers and agencies in the GCC countries represents an important factor in promoting joint Gulf action, implementing the strategic plan for joint Gulf statistical work, harmonizing national statistical strategies with international best practices in this field, and exchanging knowledge and experiences to enhance statistical capabilities at the level of the GCC countries.
Enhancing Gulf statistical cooperation
The meeting discussed ways to benefit from the UAE’s hosting of the regional headquarters of the United Nations Big Data Platform, and to enhance Cooperation between the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center and the Gulf Statistical Center in this field in light of the capabilities provided by the platform that support the development of accurate official statistics, build capacities for the use of big data and data science in statistical authorities in the region, benefit from successful practices and exchange experiences and knowledge in employing modern technology for data analysis, in a way that contributes to innovating solutions and developing distinguished services that enhance efforts to achieve sustainable development goals, and create an incubating and supportive environment for innovators in the field of advanced data science in Gulf states.
The meeting discussed projects and initiatives related to linking and integrating statistical data between the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center and the Gulf Statistical Center, which include data collection, exchange, processing and dissemination automatically and securely, to support the preparation of statistical reports and studies in many fields in the GCC countries, which contributes to strengthening joint Gulf action.
Preparations of statistical center’s
The meeting touched on the preparations of the official statistical centers in the GCC countries and the Statistical Center for the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf. To celebrate the Gulf Statistics Day, which falls on December 24, 2024, which will be celebrated by the Center with all statistical centers and agencies in the GCC countries on December 9, 2024, in order to emphasize the importance of statistics and its role in the development planning process, and to consolidate the partnership between the countries of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf to improve and develop the statistical environment.
It is worth mentioning that the establishment of the Statistical Center for the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf was announced and the adoption of the Omani capital Muscat as its permanent headquarters in December 2012, to represent an official source of data, information and statistics of the GCC countries, and its statute was adopted by the Supreme Council of the Cooperation Council, which includes Their Majesties and Highnesses the heads of member states: the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Sultanate of Oman, the State of Qatar and the State of Kuwait.
UAE Identifies Priorities for Achieving Sustainable Development
09 Jul 2024
The United Arab Emirates delegation to the United Nations’ High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development has reiterated its commitment to international partnerships in support of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
During a session titled “Unlocking Investments for the SDGs”, His Excellency Abdullah Nasser Lootah, Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange, and Chairman of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, stressed that the UAE recognizes the magnitude of the challenges facing the SDGs and has created global programs and investment tools in response.
Lootah added: “The UAE has adopted a comprehensive approach to accelerating the implementation of SDGs as we count down to 2030. It will continue to forge regional and international partnerships with both the public and private sectors to accelerate progress towards achieving SDGs by 2030, including partnerships that improve quality of life and contribute to eradicating poverty. The UAE’s development programs and investments extend beyond its borders to many countries worldwide. It has forged partnerships with governments, development banks, and private sector institutions to achieve as much impact as quickly as possible”.
During the session, Lootah highlighted a range of initiatives implemented by national entities such as the Emirates Red Crescent, the Ministry of Interior, the Abu Dhabi Development Fund, the Government Experience Exchange Programme, Masdar, and the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives.
The session was attended by government officials and representatives of international authorities and organizations. It focused on revitalizing global partnerships for sustainable development, a priority outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals 2024 Report launched by António Guterres, Secretary-General of the UN in June, and highlighted opportunities and challenges around bridging the global financial gap when it comes to achieving SDGs, with a focus on activating the role of international and multilateral financial institutions.
The UAE’s Participation on the First Day
The UAE delegation on the first day of the forum participated in sessions that focused on SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), sustainable growth, energy transition and climate action. Additionally, the delegation held numerous bilateral meetings with delegations from participating countries, institutions, and organizations.
Since its establishment in 2012, the High-Level Political Forum has served as the primary platform for the United Nations to discuss sustainable development. It plays a central role in monitoring and reviewing the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Under the theme of ‘Accelerating the recovery from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and the full implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development at all levels’, this year’s forum will review in-depth SDGs 1, 2, 13, 16, and 17.
Within the «Sustainability Journeys». Afforestation Week launched in Dubai schools
24 May 2024
General Secretariat of the National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals organized a new trip as part of the "Sustainability Trips" campaign, which was launched last year as part of the "Sustainability Initiatives" in support of the Year of Sustainability, announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, may God protect him, under the slogan "Today for Tomorrow", as part of the UAE government’s efforts to enhance community awareness of sustainability and the importance of achieving it, and to support the country’s achievements and successes in the 17 goals. Global to ensure the prosperity and quality of life of society.
The General Secretariat of the National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals, in cooperation with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority and Dubai Municipality, and with the participation of Dubai schools, launched the "Afforestation Week" campaign, which will continue until May 28, by planting seedlings in Dubai schools organized by Dubai Municipality.
Abdullah Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Knowledge Exchange and Chairman of the National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals, stressed that the sustainability travel initiatives are continuing to implement their strategy and achieve their goals in the UAE. It will contribute to the integration of our joint efforts at the state level, to motivate community members to adopt a conscious and sustainable lifestyle, for a brighter and more prosperous future.
Aisha Abdulla Meeran, Director General of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in Dubai, said: "We are delighted to participate in this wonderful initiative, in collaboration with our colleagues from supporting institutions and the educational community in Dubai, and we encourage educational institutions in Dubai to join such pioneering initiatives, which contribute to raising awareness among our students and society about sustainability and ways to preserve the environment in the UAE in order to ensure a prosperous future for future generations."
Initiative In the same context, Dawood Al Hajri, Director General of Dubai Municipality, said: "The initiative reflects Dubai Municipality’s strategic efforts to preserve natural resources and expand cultivated green spaces, by following the best international standards and practices, which contribute to enhancing the sustainability of the environmental system in Dubai, improving air and soil quality, in addition to beautifying the city, while providing the best levels of quality of life for its residents, in a way that supports the municipality’s objectives in building a sustainable system for the environment and resources. Naturalism makes Dubai more attractive and sustainable every day."
He added: "Dubai Municipality has played an effective role in the cultivation and afforestation work over the past years, as it planted 170,339 trees in 2021 to reach 185,000 trees by the end of last year, which is a reflection of its intensive efforts to increase the per capita share of green spaces in balance with the population growth and urban expansion of the emirate."
It is worth noting that the National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals was formed with the aim of implementing the Sustainable Development Goals 2030, aligning the UAE’s priorities with the UN goals, and exchanging experiences with local and international partners, to expand the circle of active participants in the implementation of the United Nations Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals.
The National Committee on SDGs Discusses UAE’s Efforts in Monitoring Indicators for Achieving Development Goals
06 May 2024
The National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) emphasised the need to intensify efforts and accelerate implementation to achieve the desired progress in the 2030 sustainable development agenda nationally. This entails closely monitoring progress regarding the 17 goals 231 indicators, capitalising on opportunities, and fostering cooperation between the government and private sectors.
The committee also discussed its mandate and responsibilities, highlighting its crucial role in translating the UAE’s directives and bolstering its involvement in international endeavours towards achieving global sustainable development goals.
This came during the inaugural meeting of the National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals under its new formation, led by His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Knowledge Exchange, Chairman of the National Committee on SDGs.
The Committee’s members include HE Brigadier General Dr. Rashid Al Dakhri, Deputy Director of the General Department of Strategy and Performance Development at the Ministry of Interior; HE Maria Hanif Al-Qassim, Assistant Undersecretary for the Policy and Economic Studies at the Ministry of Economy; HE Hassan Obaid Al Mheiri, Assistant Undersecretary for Planning and Educational Services Sector at the Ministry of Education; HE Ahmed Al Nasser, Assistant Undersecretary of National Human Resources Development at the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation; HE Dr Hussain Al Rand, Assistant Undersecretary for the Public Health Sector at the Ministry of Health and Prevention; HE Nasser Ismail, Assistant Undersecretary of Social Welfare at the Ministry of Community Development; HE Alia Abdul Rahim Al Harmoudi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Sustainable Communities Sector at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment; HE Hanan Mansour Ahli, Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC); HE Nawal Alhanaee, Director of Future Energy Department at the Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure; HE Rashid Al Humairi, Director of the Department of Development and International Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and Shatha AlHashmi, Advisor at the Government Experience Exchange Office, Committee Rapporteur.
The National Committee for SDGs undertakes several main tasks, including: coordinating with relevant entities to align and review national policies, strategies, and targets with the sustainable development goals; building and strengthening national capabilities to achieve sustainable development goals and addressing challenges through partnerships locally and globally; preparing national reports on the country’s progress and efforts to achieve SDGs; and coordinating with authorities to compile and publish related data on SDGs at the UAE level.
Abdulla Lootah emphasised that the UAE’s leadership prioritises the attainment of sustainable development goals, adopting a vision centred on accelerating their achievement and enhancing international participation in these endeavours. He noted that the announcement made by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE in 2024, as an extension of the Year of Sustainability declared in 2023, reaffirms the UAE’s steadfast commitment in this area.
Lootah stated that since its formation, the National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals has consistently aligned with the country’s directives and national initiatives aimed at realising the SDGs. Additionally, it has actively contributed to enhancing the UAE’s involvement and leadership in supporting international initiatives towards these objectives. He emphasised the significance of the committee’s efforts in expanding project initiatives, launching new programmes, and intensifying actions to monitor progress in achieving development goals at the national level, thereby accelerating their fulfilment across various sectors.
During the meeting, the members of the National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals discussed the role of the Committee’s General Secretariat and the responsibilities of its members. They received an update on the progress of the UAE in achieving the SDGs and discussed the Committee members’ role in advancing these goals and accelerating the pace of work towards their achievement.
The meeting reviewed the efforts of the General Secretariat since the committee’s new formation, including its organisation of introductory and technical meetings in collaboration with the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre. These meetings focused on discussing the national Data plan for SDGs and reviewing the achievements of ministries and government entities in implementing their indicators.
The attendees discussed the outcomes of the progress report on the adoption of the national plan for sustainable development data, as well as the mechanisms for monitoring goal achievement and conducting periodic reviews with technical work teams to assess progress levels. They also addressed the key initiatives launched and facilitated by the General Secretariat of the National Committee.
Additionally, the meeting reviewed the outcomes of the SDGs in Action Forum, held as part of the World Governments Summit activities, the SDG Young Leaders Programme, and the UAE’s participation in two Voluntary National Reviews assessing global sustainable development goal achievement levels. They also discussed the readiness to submit the voluntary review in 2026 and preparations to participate in the Science, Technology and Innovation Forum for SDGs and the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development in the United Nations.
The National Committee on SDGs was established to implement the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals at the national level. Its objectives include aligning the UAE’s priorities with those of the United Nations, as well as facilitating the exchange of experiences among local and international stakeholders and partners. This aims to broaden the pool of active participants in implementing the United Nations’ agenda for SDGs.
The UAE Joins United Nations Statistical Commission As Member
05 May 2024
The United Nations has selected the UAE as a member of the Statistical Commission, one of the eight technical committees affiliated with the Organization’s Economic and Social Council, for its next session from 2025 to 2028. This membership marks a significant milestone for the country, being the first of its kind since the Commission’s founding in 1946.
The country’s selection for membership in the United Nations Statistical Commission aligns with efforts to enhance the UAE’s participation in international initiatives. It also provides an international platform for sharing the UAE’s advanced models, thereby enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of statistical analysis worldwide. Additionally, it supports the establishment of digital platforms for data exchange.
The Statistical Commission, composed of 24 countries elected by the United Nations Economic and Social Council, stands as the apex of the global statistical system. Serving as the primary entity uniting senior statisticians and experts, it holds responsibility for decision-making regarding international statistical activities, as well as for developing statistical standards and ensuring their implementation on both national and international levels.
H.E. Hanan Mansour Ahli, Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC), affirmed that the UAE’s election to membership in the United Nations Statistical Commission reflects the nation’s leadership in digitalising the statistical system and its prominent global standing. This achievement underscores the wise leadership’s commitment to bolstering the country’s active involvement in enhancing government operations overall, as well as strengthening the statistical sector’s capabilities both nationally and internationally.
Hanan Ahli highlighted that the statistical system in the UAE, supported by local statistical centres, harnesses technology, digital solutions, and artificial intelligence techniques. This transformation has evolved the system from a mere collector of information and data to an integrated platform supporting strategic planning and nurturing innovative solutions to address future challenges. This process relies on a scientific and practical methodology in data analysis.
She pointed out that the UAE’s membership in the United Nations Statistical Commission will serve as a crucial platform for sharing distinguished Emirati experiences and exchanging statistical knowledge with countries possessing exemplary expertise in this domain.
Mohammed Hassan, Executive Director of the Statistics and Data Science Sector at FCSC, emphasised that the UAE’s election as the only Gulf country to the United Nations Statistical Commission reflects its effective role in developing solutions for utilising data to support the achievement of global sustainable development goals. This is evidenced by its embrace of the UN’s Regional Hub for Big Data for Sustainable Development platform, which aims to enhance the capabilities of the statistical community in the Middle East and North Africa region and leverage big data and artificial intelligence techniques to advance the statistics sector.
The UAE’s membership in the United Nations Statistical Commission supports its contribution to leading global statistical thought. It enables effective participation in decision-making for global statistical activities, fosters the development of statistical standards, concepts, and methods, and offers opportunities to learn about the best international statistical practices, standards, and methodologies. Moreover, it facilitates the adoption and adaptation of best practices developed by countries worldwide in the field of statistics, in collaboration with international organisations.
The country’s membership amplifies efforts to showcase the UAE’s achievements in developing the statistics and data sector, share its distinguished Emirati experience in this field, and raise awareness of the role of artificial intelligence solutions, laws, and legislation in advancing statistical work for future endeavours.
National Committee on SDGs Organizes ‘Road to Sustainability’ in Collaboration with Furjan Dubai, Careem Bike, and Carrefour
04 Apr 2024
The UAE’s National Committee on SDGs organized a new round of the ‘Road to Sustainability’ campaign, which was initially launched last year. This initiative is part of the broader efforts to support the ‘Year of Sustainability’ guidelines announced by HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. Under the slogan ‘Today for Tomorrow,’ the campaign aims to enhance community awareness about sustainability and its significance, as well as to bolster the country’s achievements in the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This year’s campaign, held in collaboration with "Furjan Dubai," "Careem Bike," and "Carrefour," was launched at the Al Khawaneej Jogging Track in Dubai. Representatives from "Careem Bike" and "Carrefour," along with members of the UAE’s National Committee on SDGs and several members of the UAE community, participated in the event. "Careem Bike" provided free bicycles to the participants, while "Carrefour" supplied environmentally friendly gifts.
His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Knowledge Exchange and Chair of the UAE’s National Committee on SDGs, stated: "The campaign embodies the UAE government’s commitment to encouraging individuals to embrace a sustainable lifestyle, which contributes to creating a better world for future generations. The National Committee on SDGs aims to achieve the UN’s sustainable development goals by fostering long-term partnerships with voluntary community institutions in the country, thereby advancing the goals in the UAE and worldwide."
Alia Al Shamlan, Founder and Director General of the "Furjan Dubai", expressed pride in participating in the "Road to Sustainability" campaign. She emphasized Furjan Dubai’s dedication, since its establishment in 2021, to actively engage and enhance human and social interaction among members of the UAE community through initiatives supporting sustainability.
Sami Amin, Senior Director of Operations at Careem, commented: "We are pleased to contribute to the Year of Sustainability initiatives and enhance the public’s experience of the ‘Road to Sustainability’ by providing free bicycles from Careem. Since its launch in February 2020, Careem has helped reduce carbon dioxide emissions by more than 3,750 tons, equivalent to the emissions of 1,051 vehicles annually, thereby supporting the achievement of sustainable development goals, particularly Goal 7, which ensures access to clean energy at affordable prices."
Amin added: "Careem Bike, launched in 2020, has become the largest bicycle sharing program in the region, with over 217 bicycle parking stations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The service has become the preferred choice for sustainable transportation and recreation among residents and tourists, thanks to its affordability and accessibility."
Bernardo Perloiro, Chief Operating Officer – GCC at Majid Al Futtaim – Retail, remarked: "We are pleased to collaborate with the UAE’s National Committee on SDGs to raise awareness among the UAE community. At Majid Al Futtaim, we consistently seek to contribute to events aligned with our sustainability strategies, aiming to become Net Positive in water and carbon by 2040."
It is noteworthy that the UAE’s National Committee on SDGs was established to implement the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development, align the UAE’s priorities with the UN’s goals, and exchange experiences with partners locally and internationally to broaden the circle of active participants in the UN Agenda for Sustainable Development.
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