Media Center

DATA FOR A BETTER FUTURE

Press Release

UAE advances 3 places, ranking 7th globally in 2024 World Competitiveness Report

18 Jun 2024

DUBAI, 18th June, 2024 His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, stated that the UAE, under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and through the dedicated efforts of its people, continues to improve its standing each year, achieving higher ranks across various global competitiveness indicators.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid said, "In one of the most important global competitiveness reports issued by the International Institute for Management Development in Switzerland, the UAE moved up three places, reaching seventh place globally. The UAE is also among the top ten globally in more than 90 key and sub-indicators in the 2024 World Competitiveness Report."

His Highness said, "Our thanks and appreciation go to all the teams in the government, economic, and development sectors who work with one spirit to achieve a single goal: the progress of the United Arab Emirates."

Building on last year’s achievement of entering the top 10, the UAE made a notable leap in the 2024 World Competitiveness report, advancing three positions to 7th place worldwide, ahead of Norway, Iceland, Japan, Canada and Finland.

The UAE performed exceptionally across various pillars of the report, ranking 2nd globally in Economic Performance, 4th in Government Efficiency, 10th in Business Efficiency.

Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, stated, "The UAE’s continuous presence at the forefront of this significant report reflects its status as one of the world’s most competitive economies. The exceptional vision and wise leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, have made the UAE a pioneering developmental model adaptable to ongoing global changes. This demonstrates the efficiency of the UAE government system, the flexibility of its business environment, and the readiness of its infrastructure."

Commenting on the results, Hanan Mansour Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, praised the integration and governance of real-time data and statistics exchange between federal and local entities. Ahli said, "This achievement is due to dedicated teams committed to implementing the vision and directives of the government of the future, reinforcing the UAE’s leadership. These results reflect the solid principles of the competitiveness culture in the UAE.”

Top Rankings in Key Indicators

The World Competitiveness Report classifies the countries based on four main pillars and 20 sub-pillars encompassing 336 competitive indicators across various economic, administrative, and social fields, including government efficiency, education, and innovation. In this year’s report, the UAE advanced in all four main pillars.

The UAE ranked among the top 10 globally in over 90 key and sub-indicators. The UAE ranked 1st globally in 11 indicators including industrial disputes, labour force (%), employment (%), and household consumption expenditure- real growth.

The UAE secured 2nd place globally in 9 indicators, including tourism receipts, females in parliament, labour force growth, adaptably of government policy, and absence of bureaucracy.

The UAE ranked 3rd globally in 6 indicators including collected capital and property taxes, immigration laws, management of cities and percentage of government budget surplus.

The UAE also achieved 4th place in 12 indicators including consumer price inflation, long-term unemployment, international experience, overall productivity (ppp), labour regulation, and the balance of commercial services and employment in the public sector.

The UAE also achieved 5th place in 13 indicators including GDP (PPP) per capita, quality of air transportation, energy infrastructure, graduates in sciences, start-up procedures, unemployment legislation, foreign highly-skilled personnel, national culture, unemployment rate and tax evasion.

First published in 1989, the IMD World Competitiveness report is a comprehensive annual report and a global benchmark on the competitiveness of countries.

It offers insights into trends, benchmarking, and a wealth of statistics and survey data derived from extensive research. The report analyses and ranks countries based on their ability to manage competencies for sustainable long-term value creation.

The FCSC Hosts IMF for Workshop on Advanced Practices in Measuring Inflation and CPI Statistics

03 Jun 2024

In a strategic initiative to advance the UAE’s statistical capabilities, the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC) hosted an expert technical mission from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This mission conducted an advanced workshop focused on the application of the latest international practices and technologies in calculating inflation rates and the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The workshop brought together leading experts in inflation statistics and CPI from local statistical centres across the UAE.

The objective was to integrate latest statistical tools, innovative data sources, and the use of scanner data to enhance the accuracy, timeliness, and comprehensiveness of national statistics. This initiative underscores the commitment to leveraging sophisticated statistical infrastructure to inform policy-making, strategic planning, and national development.

In its effort to continue adhering to the highest international standards and methodologies for statistical indicators, the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre emphasised that fostering international cooperation is paramount, especially as the UAE prepares to serve as a member of the United Nations Statistical Commission from 2025 to 2028. The goal is to innovate and standardise national methodologies in partnership with local statistical centres, while enhancing the use of advanced technologies and modern practices in statistical data production. This strategic focus ensures that the UAE’s statistical outputs are both robust and globally competitive.

His Excellency Mohammad Hassan, Executive Director of Statistics and Data Science Sector at the FCSC, stated: "Our successful partnership with the International Monetary Fund underscores our unwavering commitment to establishing a world-class statistical system. By leveraging global expertise and applying top standards and practices, we aim to enhance the efficiency and capabilities of the UAE’s national statistical system. Additionally, we embrace the latest technologies in data science and artificial intelligence to produce unified Emirati statistics that align with the visionary leadership and strategic goals of the country”.

Ms. Fayeqa Abdulla, Director of Economic Statistics at the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, highlighted the importance of continuously investing in developing statistical capabilities to keep pace with global advancements in utilizing modern techniques in data science for collecting, analyzing, and producing official statistics in the UAE, in collaboration with local statistical centers.

This workshop builds on the momentum of a recent national workshop hosted by the FCSC on measuring and calculating trade-in-services indicators, conducted in collaboration with the International Monetary Fund and esteemed international organizations such as the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

This initiative reflects the UAE’s unwavering dedication to forging robust partnerships and engaging with international and regional organizations. By actively promoting knowledge and experience exchange, the UAE aims to adopt best practices in digital transformation and ensure the application of global standards in data collection and statistical methodologies.

National Committee on SDGs Discusses Enhancing Partnerships with International Organisations and Government Officials

28 May 2024

The National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) discussed strengthening global partnerships and cooperation to achieve development goals in meetings with representatives of international organisations and government officials from several countries. These discussions were part of the committee’s delegation’s participation in the ninth annual UN Multi-stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology, and Innovation for the Sustainable Development Goals (STI Forum), which recently took place in New York.

The theme for the STI Forum 2024 was: ‘Science, technology, and innovation for reinforcing the 2030 Agenda and eradicating poverty in times of multiple crises: the effective delivery of sustainable, resilient, and innovative solutions’. The forum served as a vital platform for global leaders, decision-makers, and experts to exchange knowledge and explore opportunities for cooperation and effective partnerships.

The forum aimed to unify efforts and develop relevant scientific and innovative technologies in pursuit of achieving SDGs, while highlighting the crucial role of science and technology in building a prosperous future and confronting global challenges effectively.

His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Chairman of the National Committee on SDGs, emphasised the significance of international forums in fostering meaningful cooperation between organisations and governments. He noted that the forum presented an invaluable opportunity to exchange visions and share ideas, thereby accelerating the achievement of development goals.

Lootah stated that the UAE has achieved tangible milestones by employing technology and innovation tools, integrating them into its public policies and future strategies to advance the process of achieving sustainable development goals. He underscored the UAE’s commitment to sustainable development across economic, social, and environmental dimensions, considering it a primary pillar in its future directions and visions. This commitment is pursued through innovative methodologies, clear visions, and strategic plans aimed at benefiting society.

During the participation in the STI Forum, the UAE delegation held several meetings with ministers, officials of international organisations, experts, specialists and representatives of parties concerned with the SDGs globally.

During a meeting with H.E. Jelena Begović, Minister of Science, Technological Development, and Innovation of Serbia, the UAE delegation reviewed the pioneering role of the UAE in supporting the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030, as well as innovative transformational projects across various sectors such as development, investment, and education. The attendees stressed the importance of scientific research in the progress of countries and societies, as well as in achieving SDGs. They also emphasised the necessity of enabling researchers to access sources of funding for scientific research.

The delegation also met with H.E. Pedro Conceição, Director of the Human Development Report Office at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), during which the two sides discussed the significance of exchanging global knowledge and expertise for development and prosperity, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence mechanisms and solutions, as well as in addressing the challenges posed by climate change. The attendees emphasised the importance of strengthening efforts to achieve SDGs to ensure the advancement of human development and enhance the quality of life in societies.

The National Committee on SDGs discussed with H.E. Juan José Martínez Badillo, Chief of United Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), New York office, the development of effective models to enhance areas such as foreign investment and food security in countries with economies similar to the UAE. They also emphasised the importance of intensifying efforts and coordination with relevant entities in these countries to provide necessary data and statistics for implementing innovative solutions and high-impact initiatives to accelerate the achievement of the SDGs globally.

At a meeting with H.E. Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the delegation reviewed the ‘Global Digital Rights Charter’, which is concerned with bridging the digital divide worldwide and ensuring an open, free, and secure digital future for all, as it leverages scientific and technological developments to identify and address global challenges effectively.

The STI Forum centred its discussions on the Sustainable Development Goals, whose progress will be assessed during the 2024 High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, scheduled from July 8 to 17, 2024. Particularly, attention will be given to Sustainable Development Goals 1, 2, 13, 16, and 17.

During the forum sessions, speakers underscored the importance of utilising tools and mechanisms, including scientific research and its applications, to establish a strong foundation. They emphasised the need to support, enhance, and accelerate mechanisms for implementing effective measures at both national and international levels, thereby advancing sustainable development goals and fostering societal prosperity.

The forum, held at the invitation of H.E. Paula Narváez, President of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), was overseen by the United Nations joint working group dedicated to science, technology, and innovation for the achievement of sustainable development goals.

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.

UN HLPF 2025: GEEP, NYU Launch Global Ideation Lab to Explore New Prospects in International Cooperation and Government Innovation

26 Jul 2025

The Government Experience Exchange Programme (GEEP), under the UAE Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, launched a Global Ideation Lab in collaboration with New York University (NYU). The Ideation Lab was held alongside the UAE delegation’s participation at the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development 2025, organized by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs at the UN Headquarters in New York City. It brought together leading experts, academics, UN officials, diplomats, policymakers, and university students to explore new prospects in government sector innovation and global cooperation.

The session drew participation from 26 ministers, experts, academics, and UN officials, including Annemarie Hou, Executive Director of the UN Office of Partnerships, and Patrick Paul Walsh, Vice President of Education and Director of the SDG Academy at the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN). Attendees also included sustainability officials and diplomats from countries such as Switzerland, Portugal, Ireland, Serbia, Paraguay, Bahrain, Uzbekistan, Qatar, Kingdom of Eswatini, and others. Members of the UAE delegation to the HLPF, officials from NYU’s administrative and academic bodies, and 30 students from NYU, Stanford, and the University of Pennsylvania also participated.

Global Ideas Sandbox

The Ideation Lab helps build a global ideas sandbox and provides a creative open space. It highlighted the developmental role of comprehensive initiatives supporting global partnerships, particularly the UAE’s GEEP, which serves as an incubator for scalable cross-border partnerships and an effective knowledge sharing platform.

UAE Commitment to Expanding Partnerships

His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, stated that the UAE’s knowledge-sharing approach is comprehensive, leveraging contributions across sectors locally and globally. This approach provides an environment for creating innovative ideas and impactful development solutions.

“In the UAE, we have successfully built a pioneering model for international cooperation based on knowledge exchange with countries and governments, and GEEP is a crucial part of this endeavor,” Lootah said. “We are committed to involving various sectors, particularly academia, and cooperating with everyone in developing solutions to urgent global challenges, including developmental challenges, and expanding frameworks for sharing, transferring, and exchanging best government practices to help achieve sustainable development.”

He added: “The joint Global Ideation Lab between GEEP and NYU exemplifies the collaborative approach we adopt in the UAE to develop best practices that enhance readiness for present and future opportunities.”

Challenge and Solution Model

The Global Ideation Lab adopted a collaborative approach between GEEP and NYU, centered on posing challenges, linking academic insights with practical governance, and involving various stakeholders in designing partnership-based and scalable solutions.

The session outcomes contributed to aligning knowledge inputs with policy, empowering stakeholders to participate in developing innovative solutions to urgent governance challenges and accelerating progress towards the 2030 SDGs.

UN High-Level Political Forum

The HLPF on Sustainable Development is the UN’s central platform for reviewing and advancing SDGs. Established in 2012, the forum plays a pivotal role in monitoring national and international progress on the 2030 Agenda.

Participating delegations assess progress toward the SDGs, with this year’s forum featuring in-depth reviews of five priority goals: SDG3 (ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages); SDG5 (achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls); SDG8 (promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all); SDG14 (conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas, and marine resources for sustainable development); and SDG17 (strengthening and revitalizing the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development).

UAE’s GEEP hosts global retreat to advance government collaboration at UN SDG forum

24 Jul 2025

The Government Experience Exchange Programme (GEEP), under the UAE Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, convened its first international retreat as part of the 2025 UN High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development, organised by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) at its headquarters in New York City.

The first-of-its kind gathering reinforced the UAE’s commitment to international partnerships, bringing together global stakeholders to expand strategic collaboration and share government best practices that drive progress on the 2030 Agenda.

Held at the Permanent Mission of the United Arab Emirates to United Nations, the session showcased the UAE's advanced model in government knowledge sharing and its effectiveness in promoting institutional excellence globally.

It brought together senior representatives from governments, international organisations, and research institutions to explore multilateral and shared experiences that support the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Participants exchanged ideas on expanding partnerships across sectors to achieve measurable development outcomes, aligned with this year’s HLPF theme: “Advancing sustainable, inclusive, science- and evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals for including everyone.”

The session reflected the UAE’s ongoing commitment to fostering government modernisation and using knowledge exchange to build more effective, sustainable, and resilient institutions.

Abdulla Lootah: UAE Strengthens Global Partnerships for a Sustainable Future

His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, emphasised the UAE’s expanding international partnerships to accelerate SDG implementation worldwide. He noted that GEEP represents one of the nation’s key platforms for sharing best practices, driven by proactivity, innovation, and future-readiness.

H.E. Lootah highlighted that GEEP includes more than 100 work streams across key areas, including government excellence, services, accelerators, public policies, and competitiveness. He affirmed that hosting this inaugural international session reinforces the UAE's role in enabling international collaboration and directing knowledge exchange toward real impact on the 2030 UN Agenda, building a more sustainable future for all.

Global Partnerships for Sustainable Development

The session facilitated a robust dialogue between government representatives, international organisations, the private sector, and civil society, reinforcing collaboration to accelerate the implementation of the 2030 SDGs and deliver tangible contributions to the outcomes of the 2025 HLPF.

Three roundtable discussions were conducted centred on: Global Partnerships (SDG17), Safety and Security (SDG16), and Sustainable Environment (SDG14). Topics included the role of knowledge exchange in accelerating sustainable development, the importance of international cooperation for crisis resilience, and approaches to environmental protection and green transition.

The UAE delegation included leading experts, including Lt. Col. Dr. Ahmed Al Zarouni, Director of International Police Representation Department from the Ministry of Interior, and Her Excellency Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General from the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi.

UN High-Level Political Forum

The HLPF on Sustainable Development is the UN’s central platform for reviewing and advancing SDGs. Established in 2012, the forum plays a pivotal role in monitoring national and international progress on the 2030 Agenda.

Participating delegations at HLPF conduct assessments of progress toward the SDGs, with this year's forum featuring in-depth reviews of five priority goals: SDG3 (ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages); SDG5 (achieving equality and empowering all women and girls); SDG8 (promoting sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all); SDG14 (conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development); and SDG17 (strengthening and revitalizing the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development).

UAE Launches Global Youth Dialogue to Shape the Future of Sustainable Development Beyond 2030

04 Aug 2025

HE Abdullah Nasser Lootah:

The UAE views youth not just as beneficiaries of development, but as essential partners in shaping and leading efforts towards a sustainable future.
The nation is committed to building a more inclusive and sustainable world by 2045, guided by proactive, forward-thinking strategies.

Voices for 2045: Youth Shaping the Future session aimed to:

Engage young participants of the 2025 High-Level Political Forum in envisioning the world beyond 2030;
Gather youth aspirations and ideas for the 2045 XDGs Vision, a new global approach to comprehensive and sustainable development;
Encourage youth change-makers to reflect, connect, and draw inspiration from innovative ideas for a more sustainable and inclusive future.

August 04, 2025 — As part of the UAE delegation’s participation in the United Nations Sustainable Development Forum 2025, organized by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the General Secretariat of the National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) hosted a dedicated youth session titled Voices for 2045: Youth Shaping the Future. Held at the Permanent Mission of the United Arab Emirates to the United Nations, the session brought together youth leaders and global change-makers, including members of the UN General Assembly’s Major Group for Children and Youth.

The session engaged young participants in envisioning the world beyond 2030 and empowered them to shape the future of sustainable development. It fostered dialogue on youth aspirations and ideas for the Extended Sustainable Development Goals (XDGs 2045), a global vision for inclusive growth introduced by the Secretariate of the National Committee on SDGs at the 2023 World Governments Summit. The platform enabled youth change-makers to share experiences, connect with peers, and exchange ideas for a more inclusive and resilient future.

Youth Empowerment
His Excellency Abdullah Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals, stated: “The UAE firmly believes that youth are not merely beneficiaries of development pathways but essential partners in shaping and leading them towards the future

He emphasized that the session reflects this philosophy by giving youth a transparent and effective platform to express their visions and challenges. HE Lootah added, “Shaping the vision of the post-2030 sustainable development agenda requires open dialogue, collective participation, and bold ideas that keep pace with global changes. It is not enough to listen to youth as inspirational voices; their visions must be treated as essential inputs in policy-making and prioritization.”

Three Main Themes

40 participants from the UN Major Group for Children and Youth contributed diverse perspectives on the ambitious XDGs 2045 vision. Discussions focused on three core themes – empathy, passion, and action – underscoring the role of youth in building a better future.

Participants responded to three key questions via an online survey, offering insights on their motivations, desired transformative changes, challenges faced, and proposed solutions to enhance youth contributions to sustainable development. Their responses underscored key priorities including empowering youth and ensuring their active involvement in policy and strategy development; strengthening international cooperation and promoting innovation; guaranteeing universal access to quality education and healthcare; and safeguarding the environment and natural resources for future generations.
The session Voices for 2045: Youth Shaping the Future reflects the UAE’s commitment to supporting global efforts to achieve the SDGs and to enhancing the role of youth as key partners in the development of a more inclusive and sustainable world by 2045.

The United Nations High-Level Political Forum

The United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) is the UN’s main platform for sustainable development matters. Since its establishment in 2012, it has played a central role in tracking and reviewing countries’ progress toward implementing the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.

Delegations participating in the Forum conduct assessments of achievements made so far toward the SDGs, with in-depth reviews of five key goals: SDG 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages; SDG 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls; SDG 8: Promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all; SDG 14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources; and SDG 17: Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development.

UAE’s Telecommunications Services Trade Reaches AED 10.2 Billion in 2024, with 4.3% Growth

21 Jul 2025

The UAE’s trade in telecommunications services saw continuous growth in 2024, achieving a 4.3% increase to reach AED 10.2 billion, compared to AED 9.8 billion in 2023. This is according to data from the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC). This positive performance is attributed to the strong growth recorded in the fourth quarter of 2024, which reached 12.95%.

International competitiveness reports highlight the UAE’s leading position in telecommunications services trade, which is a key driver for the growth of the digital economy and a vital component in enabling e-commerce and enhancing technological integration among nations. The UAE ranked first globally in 17 competitive indicators related to the transition towards a digital economy, innovation, and digital infrastructure during 2024 and 2025.

The latest data from the FCSC shows a 6.49% increase in telecommunications services exports in 2024, reaching AED 4.9 billion, compared to AED 4.6 billion in 2023. Total imports of telecommunications services also rose by 2.38% in 2024, reaching AED 5.3 billion, compared to AED 5.2 billion in 2023.

Quarterly Performance

At the quarterly level, the fourth quarter of 2024 made a significant contribution to the total trade in telecommunications services, accounting for 26.45%, the highest contribution among all quarters. The fourth quarter also achieved strong growth of 12.95%, reaching AED 2.70 billion, compared to AED 2.39 billion for the same quarter in 2023, representing the largest growth among the quarters during the year.

The third quarter’s contribution to the total services trade during the year was about 25.34%, with a value of AED 2.59 billion, compared to AED 2.46 billion in the same quarter of 2023. The second quarter’s contribution was about 25.05%, with a value of AED 2.56 billion, compared to AED 2.49 billion in the same quarter of 2023. The first quarter’s contribution was about 23.17%, with a value of AED 2.37 billion, compared to AED 2.46 billion in the same quarter of 2023.

Global Competitive Leadership

The thriving trade in telecommunications services has bolstered the UAE’s position in global competitiveness indicators in digital economy and digital infrastructure fields. The UAE ranked first globally in 17 competitive indicators and among the top five globally in 21 indicators.

According to the results of global competitiveness indices and reports, the UAE ranked first in the Digital Transformation in Businesses index and the Internet Users per Thousand People index, and the Digital and Technological Skills index in the IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook 2025 published by the IMD World Competitiveness Center in Switzerland. In the same report, the UAE also ranked third globally in the Development and Application of Tech Index and the Use of Digital Tools and Technology index, as well as fifth globally in the Financing Technological Development index.

The UAE also ranked first globally in the Number of Internet Users as a Percentage of the Population index and the Mobile Telephone Users (Subscriptions/100 inhabitants) index in the Social Progress Index 2025. Furthermore, the UAE ranked first globally in the Mobile broadband subscriptions (per 100 population) index and the Population using the internet (per 100 population) index in the Sustainable Development Goals Index 2025.

In the IMD World Digital Competitiveness Ranking 2024, the UAE ranked first globally in the Internet Users index and the Wireless Broadband index. It also ranked second globally in the Tablet Possession index. In the United Nations E-Government Survey 2024, the UAE ranked first globally in Percentage of active mobile broadband Subscription, Percentage of Fixed- broadband Internet basket price, Percentage of individuals using internet, and Percentage of Mobile Cellular Subscriptions. The UAE also ranked first globally in the Individuals using the internet as a Percentage of Total Population in the Future of Growth Report published by the World Economic Forum.

In the Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024, published by the World Economic Forum, the UAE ranked first globally in the 3G mobile network coverage rate (% of population) index, the Active mobile broadband internet subscriptions (per 100 people) index, and Individuals using internet (% of population).

Telecommunications Services

Telecommunications services include the broadcasting or transmission of voice, images, data, and other information via telephone, telex, telegrams, wired and satellite broadcasting and television networks, email, and fax. It also includes business network services, remote meetings via computer networks, and support services, but excludes the value of the information transmitted. This category also covers mobile phone communication services, network maintenance services, and network access services, including internet connection services. The installation of telephone network equipment is excluded from this category.

For the First Time in the History of the UAE… Non-Oil Activities Contribute 77.3% of the GDP

08 Sep 2025

The United Arab Emirates has achieved a historic milestone, with non-oil activities contributing 77.3% to the real GDP in Q1 2025. According to preliminary estimates released by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC), the UAE’s real GDP grew by 3.9%, year-on-year to reach AED 455 billion, while non-oil GDP surged by 5.3% to AED 352 billion, marking the highest level ever recorded in the history of the UAE. On the other hand, oil-related activities contributed 22.7% during the same period.

H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, stated that the initial figures released by FCSC reflect the robustness, resilience, and exceptional growth trajectory of the UAE’s economy, its ability to sustain extraordinary growth, and the success of the country’s holistic development model. H.E. emphasized that these results reflect investors’ confidence and the global recognition of the UAE’s business and investment ecosystem, which has become a global benchmark for advanced economic policies and pro-growth legislative frameworks.

“Guided by the vision of our wise leadership, the contribution of non-oil activities to real GDP has reached an all-time high of 77.3%; a key milestone in the history of the UAE. This reflects the momentum gained by the UAE’s economic diversification and demonstrates the effectiveness of national strategies to build a knowledge- and innovation-driven economy, fully aligned with the objectives of the “We the UAE 2031” vision, which aims to raise the UAE’s GDP to AED 3 trillion by the next decade,” H.E. added.

Meanwhile, H.E. Hanan Mansour Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, emphasised that these results showcase the efficiency of the UAE’s economic model and the government’s success in implementing the leadership directives to drive sustainable sectoral development. “Our relentless efforts towards economic diversification continue to drive the expansion and resilience of the national economy,” H.E. noted. “Non-oil GDP growth exceeding 5% showcases our commitment to building an advanced, technology- and innovation-enabled economy that empowers businesses and entrepreneurs to transform their ideas into thriving ventures, adding momentum to the UAE’s dynamic economic landscape,” she added.

Leading other sectors in growth during Q1 2025, the manufacturing sector has expanded by 7.7% compared to the same period in 2024. It is followed by finance, insurance, and construction at 7.0% growth each, while real estate activities rose by 6.6% and trade by 3.0%.
In terms of contribution to the UAE’s GDP, the trade sector topped the list with 15.6% of non-oil GDP, followed by finance & insurance at 14.6%, manufacturing at 13.4%, construction at 12.0%, and real estate at 7.4%.

Videos

50 Years of Unified UAE Numbers

30 Apr 2026

The UAE … A Leading Competitive Model in Excellence, Innovation, and Future-Making

30 Apr 2026

H. H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Visits UAE Statistics Mural

30 Apr 2026

The UAE National Data and Statistics Platform

30 Apr 2026

Non-Oil GDP Grows by 6.1% in the First Nine Months of 2025

30 Apr 2026

Emirati Women’s Day… From Numbers to Achievements, Driven by Your Vision

30 Apr 2026

Media Kit

Publications

Press Release

Social Media

Contact us

e-Participation Policy

Feedback & Suggestions

Moderation Policy

Services

Media Center

DATA FOR A BETTER FUTURE

50 Years of Unified UAE Numbers

The UAE … A Leading Competitive Model in Excellence, Innovation, and Future-Making

H. H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Visits UAE Statistics Mural

The UAE National Data and Statistics Platform

Non-Oil GDP Grows by 6.1% in the First Nine Months of 2025

Emirati Women’s Day… From Numbers to Achievements, Driven by Your Vision

Do you find this content helpful?

“RASMI” Initiative

The “RASMI” accreditation mark aims to:

Highlight the strength of the Unified UAE Numbers to support the UAE’s global competitiveness journey.

Ensure the highest levels of transparency and accuracy in producing national data.

Reduce duplication and support mechanisms for integration and coordination between federal and local data-producing entities.

Enhance community trust in published national data and statistics.

Raise statistical awareness among individuals in society through interactive visual content.

إبـــــراز قـــــوة أرقـــــام الإمـــــارات المـــــوحدة، لدعـــــم مسيـــــرتنــــــا في التنــــــافسيــــــة العــــــالميــــــة.

ضمــــــان أعــلى درجــــــات الشـــــفـــــافيــــة والــــــدقــــة في إنتــــــاج لبيــــانــــــات الـــــــوطنيــــــة.

تعـــــزيـــــــز ثقـــــــة المجتمــــــع فـــــي البيـــــــانــــــات والإحصــــــاءات الــــــوطنيـــــــة المنشـــــــورة.

نشـــــــر الـــــــوعي الإحصـــــــائي بيـــــــن أفــــــراد المـــــــجتمع عبـــــــر محتــــــوى مـــــــرئي تفــــــــاعلي.

Media Center

DATA FOR A BETTER FUTURE

50 Years of Unified UAE Numbers

The UAE … A Leading Competitive Model in Excellence, Innovation, and Future-Making

H. H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Visits UAE Statistics Mural

The UAE National Data and Statistics Platform

Non-Oil GDP Grows by 6.1% in the First Nine Months of 2025

Emirati Women’s Day… From Numbers to Achievements, Driven by Your Vision

Close X

Date will get updated

“RASMI” Initiative

The “RASMI” accreditation mark aims to:

Highlight the strength of the Unified UAE Numbers to support the UAE’s global competitiveness journey.

Ensure the highest levels of transparency and accuracy in producing national data.

Reduce duplication and support mechanisms for integration and coordination between federal and local data-producing entities.

Enhance community trust in published national data and statistics.

Raise statistical awareness among individuals in society through interactive visual content.

مبــــــادرة "رســـــــمي"

تهـــدف علامــــة اعتمــــاد "رســــمي" لـ:

إبـــــراز قـــــوة أرقـــــام الإمـــــارات المـــــوحدة، لدعـــــم مسيـــــرتنــــــا في التنــــــافسيــــــة العــــــالميــــــة.

ضمــــــان أعــلى درجــــــات الشـــــفـــــافيــــة والــــــدقــــة في إنتــــــاج لبيــــانــــــات الـــــــوطنيــــــة.

تعـــــزيـــــــز ثقـــــــة المجتمــــــع فـــــي البيـــــــانــــــات والإحصــــــاءات الــــــوطنيـــــــة المنشـــــــورة.

نشـــــــر الـــــــوعي الإحصـــــــائي بيـــــــن أفــــــراد المـــــــجتمع عبـــــــر محتــــــوى مـــــــرئي تفــــــــاعلي.