Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, recently announced a significant development in the country’s government operations. At a Cabinet meeting held at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, a remote work system for government entities operating from outside the UAE was approved. This initiative aims to leverage global expertise for projects, studies, and specialized tasks, thereby enhancing federal efficiency.
In addition to the remote work system, Sheikh Mohammed unveiled the UAE’s national investment strategy for the next six years. This strategy is designed to position the UAE as a global investment hub by significantly increasing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows and expanding the country’s investment stock. The ambitious plan sets a target to elevate annual FDI inflows from Dh112 billion in 2023 to Dh240 billion by 2031, alongside growing the FDI stock from Dh800 billion to Dh2.2 trillion. Key sectors such as industry, logistics, finance, renewable energy, and information technology will be the focus, aiming to diversify the economy and drive sustainable growth.
The UAE also highlighted its successful strategic partnership with African nations during the meeting. Sheikh Mohammed noted that 95 per cent of previously approved initiatives have been achieved, with trade between the UAE and Sub-Saharan Africa growing by 87 per cent, from Dh126.7 billion in 2019 to Dh235 billion over the past five years.
Furthermore, the National Digital Economy Strategy was reviewed, aiming to boost the digital economy’s contribution to the GDP from 9.7 per cent to 19.4 per cent within the next six years. This plan is part of the UAE’s efforts to strengthen its standing in the global digital economy.
In the health sector, the Cabinet approved a new national policy to combat health risks, with frameworks for prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery to ensure readiness for health emergencies. Additionally, the Cabinet adopted the executive regulations on human organ and tissue donation and transplantation, reflecting a 30 per cent rise in such procedures.
On the social front, new decisions were adopted to enhance the social support and empowerment system, with funding for social programs rising by 29 per cent to Dh3.5 billion. The number of beneficiaries increased by 37 per cent, and 3,200 individuals transitioned from aid recipients to active contributors in the workforce.
The Cabinet also approved 28 international agreements, including economic partnerships with Malaysia, New Zealand, and Kenya, plus security, logistics, and governmental cooperation deals. These developments underscore the UAE’s commitment to strengthening its global partnerships and enhancing its economic and social landscape.
