Latest news with #WeTheUAE2031
The National
09-07-2025
- Business
- The National
Sheikh Mohammed launches AI system to measure government performance
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, on Wednesday announced the launch of a new system being used by the federal government to measure performance. Using artificial intelligence algorithms, he said the new system supports decision-making, helps planning and improves the ability to anticipate future challenges. 'We have launched a new system in the federal government to measure government performance,' he wrote on X. 'The new system enables support for decision-making, monitoring plans and strategies, and enhancing the ability to anticipate some future challenges and opportunities using artificial intelligence algorithms.' It follows the announcement last month that the National Artificial Intelligence System would become an advisory member of the UAE Cabinet, starting in January next year. 'Continuous improvement is a fundamental part of the government's work habits,' Sheikh Mohammed said. 'Because stopping the development of our tools is a step backward. Our slogan is: 'There is no perfect system, but everything is capable of development and improvement.'' Using technology Last week, the Dubai Ruler, who is also Vice President, said AI would be used to manage government resources in a bid to make services easier and faster. He has directed teams across ministries to use strategies based on more innovative and flexible foundations, incorporating AI as part of the 'We the UAE 2031' vision. The planning cycle will involve 38 federal groups and brings together key public officials, including directors of strategy, future planning and finance. AI has been at the heart of UAE policy for years. In October 2017, the Emirates appointed the world's first Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Omar Al Olama. He is now Minister of State for AI, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications. In early 2019, the UAE launched the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy to become one of the leading nations in AI by 2031. In the same year, the country established the world's first graduate-level, research-based university that was dedicated to AI, the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence. And in January this year, Abu Dhabi launched its Digital Strategy 2025-2027, which aims to transform the emirate into the world's first fully AI-powered government by 2027. At the World Governments Summit in Dubai in February, Mohammed Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, said that over the next 25 years, AI would propel civilisation faster than at any stage in history. Efficiency drive Seeking a more efficient public sector is also nothing new. Sheikh Mohammed last month announced the next part of a scheme to make government services simpler and more efficient. He said that under the first phase of the Zero Government Bureaucracy programme service time was reduced by more than 70 per cent. Mohammed Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, said the 'next phase will focus on further reducing unnecessary procedures, streamlining digital applications by achieving zero digital bureaucracy and ensuring a 24-hour uptime for digital systems'.
The National
06-07-2025
- Business
- The National
Sheikh Mohammed reveals new AI strategy for streamlining services
, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, has unveiled a new government strategy under which artificial intelligence will be used to manage resources. The new policy will enable the UAE to make government services easier and faster, said Sheikh Mohammed. "We're proud to launch the UAE Federal Government Strategic Plan 2031 – a new chapter in shaping a smarter, faster and more efficient government," said Sheikh Mohammed, as reported by Dubai Media Office. "This phase focuses on using AI to streamline processes and improve how we manage resources across the federal government. In the past, success was measured by the strength of regulations, the size of teams and the complexity of procedures. "Today, success means making things easier and faster – delivering seamless services and using resources wisely in a complex world," said Sheikh Mohammed, also Vice President. "Tools may change and goals may shift, but one thing stays the same: our commitment to excellence in serving the people of the UAE." Sheikh Mohammed has directed teams across ministries and strategies based on more innovative and flexible foundations, incorporating AI as part of the 'We the UAE 2031' vision, the media office said. The planning cycle will involve 38 federal groups and brings together key public officials, including directors of strategy, future planning and finance. Last month, Sheikh Mohammed announced a National Artificial Intelligence System would become an advisory member of the UAE Cabinet, starting in January next year. 'The world is going through comprehensive restructuring, scientifically, economically and socially and our goal is being ready today for the coming decades and ensuring continuing prosperity and a decent life for the following generations,' Sheikh Mohammed said at the time.
Khaleej Times
15-06-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Non-oil sector propels UAE's GDP to nearly Dh1.8 trillion in 2024
The UAE's economy registered a growth of 4.0 per cent in real gross domestic product (GDP) in 2024, reaching Dh1.776 trillion, underscoring the resilience and dynamism of the country's non-oil sectors in the face of a challenging global environment. According to official data released by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC) on Sunday, non-oil activities contributed an impressive 75.5 per cent to the national economy, amounting to Dh1.342 trillion, while oil-related GDP stood at Dh434 billion. The upbeat data has reinforced confidence in the UAE's long-term economic trajectory, driven by structural reforms, increased investment in non-oil sectors, and strategic initiatives under the 'We the UAE 2031' vision. The Ministry of Economy described the growth as a testament to the country's effective economic diversification strategy and its transformation into a knowledge- and innovation-driven economy. Minister of Economy Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri said the performance reflects the UAE's determination to build a sustainable, globally competitive economy. 'Each milestone brings us closer to our national goal of raising the GDP to Dh3 trillion by the next decade,' said Al Marri. 'We are committed to positioning the UAE as a global hub for the new economy by reinforcing sustainable development, leveraging emerging technologies, and enhancing international competitiveness.' Hanan Mansour Ahli, managing director of the FCSC, noted that the 4.0 per cent GDP growth 'mirrors the UAE's strategic foresight and focus on sustainable, non-oil-driven growth,' with diversified economic activity enhancing social well-being and national resilience. Among the fastest-growing contributors to GDP in 2024 was the transport and storage sector, which recorded a remarkable 9.6 per cent year-on-year growth, powered by a strong rebound in aviation and logistics. UAE airports handled a total of 147.8 million passengers during the year, a 10 per cent increase from 2023, reflecting the country's recovery as a global travel and logistics hub. The construction and real estate sectors also continued their upward momentum. The building and construction sector posted an 8.4 per cent increase, buoyed by robust infrastructure development across urban centres, while real estate activities grew by 4.8 per cent amid rising demand for residential and commercial properties. Financial and insurance services expanded by 7.0 per cent, reflecting strong capital inflows and healthy banking sector performance. The hospitality and food services sector grew by 5.7 per cent, supported by a surge in tourist arrivals and high hotel occupancy levels throughout 2024. In terms of sectoral contributions to the non-oil GDP, wholesale and retail trade led the way with a 16.8 per cent share, followed by manufacturing (13.5 per cent), financial and insurance activities (13.2 per cent), construction (11.7 per cent), and real estate (7.8 per cent). These indicators collectively signal a broad-based expansion across key pillars of the non-oil economy. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) echoed the optimism in its latest regional economic outlook, projecting that the UAE will maintain strong medium-term growth thanks to its effective policy mix and strategic diversification plans. The IMF said the UAE's fiscal and monetary policies, alongside targeted reforms in labour markets, green energy, and digital transformation, would underpin continued economic stability and competitiveness. The Central Bank of the UAE, in its most recent economic review, reaffirmed its growth forecast for 2024, noting that the non-oil sector remains the main engine of economic momentum. The apex bank said it expects the non-oil economy to grow by around 5.4 per cent in 2025, supported by steady domestic demand, robust trade activity, and rising levels of foreign direct investment (FDI). Analysts also highlight that the UAE's proactive steps toward climate resilience and hosting of global events such as COP28 have elevated its stature as a responsible economic player, further accelerating investment in green technologies, logistics, advanced manufacturing, and tourism infrastructure. Analysts added that as global headwinds from inflationary pressures and geopolitical uncertainties persist, the UAE's diversified economic model and prudent policy framework appear well-positioned to deliver sustainable growth and opportunity across sectors. With its ambitious vision to double the size of the economy by 2031, the UAE is increasingly seen as a model of modernisation and economic agility in the Arab Gulf region, they noted.
Gulf Business
15-06-2025
- General
- Gulf Business
UAE: Midday work ban starts today, see penalties for violations
Image: Getty Images/ For illustrative purposes The UAE has commenced its 21st annual 'Midday Work Ban', effective from June 15 until September 15. A key part of the UAE's sustainable labour strategy, the rule, enforced by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), prohibits any outdoor work under direct sunlight between 12:30pm and 3pm daily. The initiative aims to safeguard the health and safety of workers — particularly in construction and outdoor sectors — during the country's peak summer heat, where temperatures often exceed 50°C. MoHRE added that its inspection teams will conduct unannounced field visits to monitor compliance at work sites and labour accommodations across the country. The ministry is also conducting awareness campaigns to inform both employers and employees of the regulations and the health risks of working in extreme heat. Read: Penalties for violators of midday work ban Violators of the Midday Work Ban face fines of Dhs5,000 per worker found working during the restricted hours, up to a maximum of Dhs50,000, and may risk suspension of the establishment's classification or operational permits. The Measures to be undertaken for workers Exceptions to the ban are made only for urgent tasks, such as infrastructure repairs, which must be reported in advance and compensated with alternative rest periods. The initiative supports the UAE's 'We the UAE 2031' vision, fostering a resilient and inclusive workforce. The country hosts over 200 nationalities, making the safety and dignity of all workers a national priority.
Gulf Business
15-06-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
UAE economy hits Dhs1.776tn as non-oil sectors drive growth
The UAE's real gross domestic product (GDP) reached Dhs1.776tn in 2024, marking a 4 per cent increase from the previous year, according to the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC). Non-oil GDP expanded by 5 per cent, totaling Dhs1.342tn, while oil-related activities contributed Dhs434bn to the overall economy. Read- Minister of Economy Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri emphasised that the latest figures highlight renewed momentum and underline key milestones in the nation's economic diversification efforts. 'These indicators reflect the sustained success of the UAE's economic strategies,' Al Marri said. 'They demonstrate our transition toward an innovative, knowledge-based, and sustainable economic model in line with global trends and emerging technologies.' Non-oil sectors accounted for 75.5 per cent of the UAE's GDP by the end of 2024—an outcome the minister attributes to strong leadership and effective policy implementation. He affirmed that these results align with the broader goals of the 'We the UAE 2031' vision, which aims to raise the national GDP to Dhs3tn within the next decade. Diversification strategy driving growth Hanan Mansour Ahli, Managing Director of the FCSC, echoed the sentiment, calling the 4 per cent GDP growth 'a reflection of exceptional economic performance' and proof of the UAE's commitment to a sustainable, non-oil-driven growth model. 'The leadership's forward-looking approach prioritizes economic diversification not just as a strategic goal but as a central operational principle,' she said. Ahli added that this model enhances national competitiveness and social well-being, while ensuring consistent progress across development indicators. This approach has translated into notable sectoral growth across the economy. The transport and storage sector emerged as the fastest-growing contributor to GDP in 2024, posting a 9.6 per cent year-over-year increase. This surge was largely driven by record airport traffic, with UAE airports handling approximately 147.8 million passengers—an increase of nearly 10 per cent. Sectoral Highlights: Transport, construction, and finance The building and construction sector recorded an 8.4 per cent growth rate, buoyed by significant urban infrastructure investments. Financial and insurance activities also performed well, growing by 7 per cent, followed by the hospitality sector—hotels and restaurants—which expanded by 5.7 per cent. The real estate sector grew by 4.8 per cent. Among non-oil sectors, trade remained the top contributor to GDP, accounting for 16.8 per cent, followed by manufacturing at 13.5 per cent, and financial and insurance services at 13.2 per cent. The construction sector contributed 11.7 per cent, while real estate activities represented 7.8 per cent of non-oil GDP. As the UAE continues its shift toward a knowledge-driven and globally competitive economy, government officials remain confident that these figures demonstrate a robust foundation for future growth and long-term economic sustainability.
