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DATA FOR A BETTER FUTURE
Dubai, October 19, 2018
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) hosted the meetings of the UN Global Working Group (GWG) on Big Data across an entire day. The meetings explored the five key pillars of utilising Big Data to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN’s 2030 Agenda.
H.E. Abdullah Lootah, FCSA Director General and Chairman of the Organising Committee of the UN World Data Forum 2018, opened the meetings, which discussed ways to improve the quality of statistics, strategies for addressing challenges in the Big Data sector, and mechanisms to consolidate partnerships with leading statistics entities from around the world, as well as data developers and experts on Big Data.
Ms. Heather Savory, Co-Chair of the UN Big Data Group and Director-General of Data Capacity at the National Statistical Office of the United Kingdom, said: “I would like to begin by thanking the UAE for hosting these meetings, which provide an international platform and ideal environment that enhances cooperation and partnership among all sorts of institutions and organisations. We are waiting to catalyse research and development efforts to provide secure services and applications, which, in turn, can be used to implement various projects in collaboration with leading tech companies and academic institutions. We look forward to exploring the best practices that enable the international statistics community to embrace modern technologies, improve the collection of data and utilise them to drive development and achieve SDGs locally and internationally.”
Meanwhile, Niels Ploug, Co-Chair of the UN Big Data Group and Director of the Department of Social Statistics of the Statistics Office of Denmark, said: “Independent official statistics serve both governments and the private sector, providing data about economic, social and environmental sectors. With that in mind, technology and data can help outline a clear image of the challenges that lie ahead for our society. Meeting here in Dubai is ideal to address our ability to utilise these resources and we look forward to partnering with the private sector to access its data and develop wider-reaching services.”
Mohamed Hassan Ahli, Executive Director of the National Statistics and Data Sector at the FCSA, said: “The UAE is hosting GWG’s Open Day meetings, in line with the directives of our wise leadership in supporting and encouraging innovation, benefiting from the data revolution and harnessing advanced technology to achieve strategic objectives and sustainable development plans locally, regionally and internationally.”
“Big Data is the cornerstone of optimising the use of artificial intelligence to employ cutting-edge technology in forecasting the future,” Ahli added. “Such forecasts are a key pillar of data-driven strategic planning, which is used across all UAE Government entities. These meetings will undoubtedly offer an opportunity to introduce international best practices in data and statistics across economic, social, environmental, health and educational spheres.”
The GWG meeting agenda included over five sessions showcasing the most prominent experiences and expertise in harnessing Big Data to achieve SDGs.
Session 1 highlighted the developments of the GWG’s Global Platform for Big Data and its contributions to producing official statistics. It also underlined new platforms for reliable methodologies and algorithms and monitoring of Earth’s data, e.g. Earth Observation Data, to collect and analyse data and integrate AI and machine learning applications.
Exploring agriculture and crop statistics, Session 2 shed light on the experiences of Canada, Colombia and the World Food Programme through satellite imagery data. Session 3, meanwhile, focused on assessing the movement of individuals and groups through analysing data collected from mobile electronic devices and methods of utilising such data to derive statistics on tourism, migration, daily commute and refugee movements.
Session 4 dealt with price fluctuations and their impact on the future forecast of commodity prices and spending behaviours through collecting data from bar codes, as well as from store and market reports. This while Session 5 addressed the challenges of Big Data and privacy, showcasing best practices in protecting personal data and making relevant decisions.
Around the end of the sessions, members of the GWG proposed key learnings and takeaways, which included: The need for statistics offices to modernise in order to benefit from the Big Data revolution; the necessity of optimising the insights that can be gathered from satellite imagery; tapping into machine learning and artificial intelligence; benefitting from the insight provided by data sources and technologies to improve the quality and relevance of official statistics and enable better decision-making for policymakers in the UAE and abroad.
The session underlined the importance of collaboration among the global community to achieve sustainable development in this new digital economy. This includes organising major events, such as the GWG ensure that knowledge is shared among statistics offices across the globe. The main objective from this type of event is to ensure that this is done in an open, transparent and collaborative manner. In addition to enhancing official statistics, Big Data also has great potential to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals to end poverty and hunger, ensure quality education, better healthcare and more equality, all the while addressing climate change and ensuring a better future for everyone.
The UN Global World Group for Big Data comprises 22 member countries, including the UAE, represented by the FCSA, which strives to develop national competencies and seek out the latest international technologies and experiences in government Big Data programmes and initiatives. Furthermore, the GWG aims to identify international best practices and innovation-driven initiatives in terms of official statistics, particularly the applications of Big Data.
The GWG also includes nine members of international entities, including Eurostat, the GCC Statistical Center, the International Telecommunication Union, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe, the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, the United Nations Statistics Division, and the World Bank.
Dubai, October 8, 2018
The Ministry of Interior has signed a partnership agreement with the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) to enhance bilateral collaboration and coordination in the lead-up to the second edition of the UN World Data Forum, set to be held in Dubai’s Madinat Jumeirah on October 22-24, 2018.
The Forum brings together high-ranking officials, prominent decision makers, and more than 1,500 experts and specialists in data and statistics from all around the world. The partnership agreement allows the Ministry of Interior to showcase the latest successes achieved in the police and security sector through a data-centred approach.
The agreement was signed at the Ministry’s headquarters by His Excellency Lt. General Saif Abdullah Al Shafar, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, and H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director General and Chairman of the Forum’s Organising Committee, in the presence of Brigadier General Mohammed Humaid bin Dalmuj Al Dhaheri, Acting Secretary-General of the Office of the Minister of Interior, and a number of FCSA officials.
The agreement is in line with both entities’ efforts to promote cooperation among institutions across the UAE to better serve the community and establish the UAE as an example to be emulated around the region and the world, all the while highlighting the country’s credentials as a prime destination for major international conferences and events.
H.E. Lt. General Al Shafar noted that signing this partnership agreement with the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority reiterates the Ministry’s commitment to supporting events and initiatives revolving around statistics in general, and the activities of the UN World Data Forum 2018, in particular, which is a notable event for the international statistics sector.
The Lt. General went on to note that the Ministry, under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE and Minister of Interior, is committed to building excellent relationships with entities across the UAE and facilitating the exchange of knowledge and expertise among them. This, in turn, catalyses sustainable development, ensures safety and security, and helps provide advanced services.
For his part, H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah said: “We are happy to be collaborating with the Ministry of Interior to harmonise all efforts and ensure the UN World Data Forum 2018, held in the UAE, is a resounding success. This partnership also echoes our dedication to strengthening partnerships with all stakeholders across the UAE to ensure sustainable development, secure the country’s spot at the top of international competitiveness indexes, and highlight its role in fostering collaboration to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”
“This partnership is an important step forward; it supports all the efforts to create a massive, centralised database for the UAE – the first of its kind in the world – firmly establishing the country as a global leader in embracing data as a key ingredient in sustainable development,” H.E. Lootah added. “It allows us to benefit from expertise, explore best practices, build national capacities, and utilise advanced technologies to mine accurate data and use it as a foundation upon which to build a better future for coming generations.”
The agreement stipulates that the two parties are to cooperate and provide all resources necessary to support the world-leading Forum that examines the role of data in accomplishing the Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda. The two entities will also benefit from the Forum’s discussions and takeaways to empower national talents and hone their statistical skills. Held under the aegis of the United Nations, the World Data Forum brings together prominent data producers and consumers to launch initiatives that improve available data on health, education, income, the environment, and climate, among other areas of interest for sustainable development.
Dubai, October 3, 2018
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) organised a panel discussion titled “Data and Artificial Intelligence: An Active Role in Building the World’s Future” as part of the “Data for a Better Future for Humanity” series in the lead-up to the second UN World Data Forum, set to be held in Dubai’s Madinat Jumeirah on October 22-24, 2018.
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, the Forum brings together high-ranking officials, prominent decision makers, and more than 1,500 experts and specialists in data and statistics from all around the world.
Her Excellency Sarah bint Yousif Al Amiri, Minister of State for Advanced Sciences, attended the session, along with H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director General and Chairman of the Forum’s Organising Committee; while H.E. Ohood Ali Abdullah Al Shuhail, Director-General of Ajman Digital Government; and Eng. Bashar Kilani, Region Executive, IBM Middle East, participated in an interactive discussion with officials from statistics centres, universities and youth councils around the UAE, debating how data affects the use of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly with regards to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) locally and internationally.
H.E. Sarah Al Amiri asserted that the UAE, guided by the forward-thinking vision of its wise leadership, has espoused a proactive approach, tailored to the requirements of the Government of the Future and rooted in data as a fundamental component in decision making. This is in line with the UAE’s quest to establish its lead in various sectors and find solutions for all challenges, particularly those with direct impact on the lives of individuals and society.
“Data is the cornerstone of knowledge; and knowledge is the driving force behind positive change,” H.E. added. “With that in mind, the optimal utilisation of data and scientific research will play a key role in establishing a developed ecosystem that embraces advanced science and technology to upgrade key services and provide a better life and brighter future for all members of the community.”
“We, at the Office of the Minister of State for Advanced Science, prioritise data, research and statistics, which, we believe, play an immense role in ensuring the optimal use of advanced science and research, as per the objectives of the National Advanced Sciences Agenda 2031,” H.E. Al Amiri noted. “The Agenda seeks to establish a conducive environment to help achieve the objectives of the UAE Centennial 2071 Plan, by placing science and technology at the disposal of sectors and establishing a comprehensive database to help identify the most important challenges and create solutions to address them.”
The Minister of State for Advanced Science concluded by asserting the importance of promoting scientific research, guiding the youth, and empowering them to remain aware of advanced sciences in order to ultimately build a generation of distinguished Emirati scientists and achieve further success to reflect the best possible image of UAE youth.
For her part, H.E. Ohood Ali Abdullah Al Shuhail said: “The Ajman Government is working to build a robust database in collaboration with all Government entities and according to the Ajman 2021 vision, which, in turn, aims to achieve the UAE leadership’s vision to build a better future for our societies and coming generations.”
“Processing data through advanced technologies is fundamental for adopting artificial intelligence,” H.E. Al Shuhail continued. “With that in mind, we consider the community to be a key partner in supporting Government entities by providing the necessary data to upgrade Government operations, while the private sector’s cooperation is paramount to build a comprehensive data ecosystem that facilitates forecasting future challenges and formulating adequate solutions for them.”
“Having realised the importance of these advanced technologies early on, the UAE appointed a Minister of State for Advanced Science to the Federal Government and proceeded to work on a National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence that echoes the 2021 Advanced Science Strategy and intersects with four of its main themes in nine key sectors,” H.E. explained.
Al Shuhail noted that the Ajman Digital Government emphasises developing technological skills among young generations and to that end, it has launched a series of initiatives, collaborating with Sandooq Al Watan and other entities to launch “Emirati Coder” to train 260 students in programming and robotics. The Ajman Digital Government also collaborated with Dark Matter Group’s educational arm, Ajyal Talent Management, to introduce four new courses to the curriculum at Ajman Academy as a prelude to implementing them in schools across the emirate.
Meanwhile, Eng. Bashar Kilani began by identifying artificial intelligence as a concept, which consists of using machines to simulate human intellect, noting that the first recorded implementations of this advanced technology emerged in the 1950s and 1960s in the form of devices that analyse voices and images. With the data revolution, these technologies made their way to other areas, such as analysis, machine learning and reading.
“The successful implementation of these future technologies relies on accurate data to support decision making,” Kilani said. “Data plays a pivotal role in improving performance and customer satisfaction, increasing companies’ bottom lines, and helping employees hone their professional skills by automating repetitive tasks and allowing them to shift their focus on more important duties.”
Kilani noted that the emergence of these advanced technologies will create new jobs on the market, where two-thirds of jobs in the future are expected to be completely new, while automation and robots will take over 80% of human tasks. The IBM Region Executive cited examples where this is already happening, such as in bank transactions, self-driving vehicles and drones.
“Data is the oil of the future, and we are on the cusp of great growth in the sector and the proliferation of related professions, such as data scientist. There will be increasing demand for data scientists in engineering, data scientists in medicine, etc.” Kilani concluded. “The UAE will lead the way in utilising this data to improve performance across key sectors and maintain the UAE’s steady rise on international competitiveness indexes.”
The UN World Data Forum 2018 is the most important international gathering of data and statistics in the world. It contributes to the establishment of a scientific incubator environment to enhance the role of data and statistics in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals 2030, namely food security, health and learning.
Taking place over the course of three days, the UN World Data Forum receives support from major strategic partners, namely: The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFA); the Ministry of Interior (MOI); GCC Statistical Center (GCC-STAT); the Smart Dubai Office (SDO); Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA); Dubai Statistics Center (DSC); DP World; Abu Dhabi Ports; Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi; Sharjah Department of Statistics and Community Development (DSCD); Fujairah Statistics Centre; and the General Secretariat of the Executive Council in the Emirate of Umm Al Quwain.
Dubai, September 29, 2018
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) organised a panel discussion on “Future Food Security and the Importance of Data in Addressing Food Challenges”, part of the “Data for a Better Future for Humanity” in the lead-up to the UN World Data Forum 2018, set to be held in Dubai on October 22-24.
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, the Forum brings together high-ranking officials, prominent decision makers, and more than 1,500 experts and specialists in data and statistics from all around the world.
His Excellency Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director General and Chairman of the Forum’s Organising Committee, attended the workshop, along with a number of senior officials, including Essa Abdulrahman Al Hashemi, Head of the Food Security Office at the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs and the Future; and Eng Mohammed Ahmed Al-Dhanhani, Director of the Development and Health Department at the Ministry of Climate Change and the Environment; in addition to executives from statistics centres across the country and several of the FCSA’s strategic partners.
“This workshop is the first in a series of seminars that introduce members of the community to the importance of data and information, and its role in the development of high quality-services that meet their aspirations and improve their quality of life,” said H.E. Lootah. “It also offers a platform for proposals and initiatives that can be presented to participants at the second UN World Data Forum, which is set to be hosted in Dubai next month and will further cement the UAE’s reputation as a massive database and a global leader in embracing innovation and data to achieve the 2030 Agenda’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”
For his part, Essa Abdulrahman Al Hashemi introduced the concept of food security and the UAE’s initiatives in this regard. The UAE realised early on the importance of providing safe and healthy food supplies at reasonable prices, Al Hashemi asserted, citing the projects launched by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founding Father of the UAE, that have guaranteed the country’s impressive score on the Global Food Security Index today. Most notable among these projects were establishing a national food security office in Abu Dhabi and approving a national strategy and system to stock strategic food supplies.
Al-Hashemi went on to affirm that data is a key pillar in the UAE’s ambitious plan to claim the top spot on the Global Food Security Index through initiatives and projects that will incentivise the private sector and entrepreneurs to invest in agricultural projects and embrace the latest technologies in this field.
Statistics and data are at the core of any effective food security system, Al Hashemi reiterated, noting their value and role in developing efficient mechanisms to ensure sustainability and continuous improvement. The most vital of these statistics cover domestic consumption, food waste, regular and groundwater resources and ways to manage them, and crops and ways to cultivate them using modern technology.
The discussion went on to highlight the importance of keeping up with scientific innovations within the food supply chain strategy, such as genome science, water-saving and capturing techniques that use humidity, and improved seeds that increase agricultural output and food production.
On a related note, Eng. Mohammed Ahmed Al-Dhanhani underlined the importance of cooperation among all stakeholders to enhance data collection, as this will help ensure accurate nation-wide statistics. Al-Dhanhani pointed to the announcement of the Strategy for Food Diversity, which includes partners and entities working within a unified system that aims to establish a more effective mechanism to provide accurate statistical data and information. He also stressed the importance of utilising modern technology, which will also contribute to the provision of accurate data. This technology includes Blockchain which provides real data and indicators on the volume of food consumption, accelerates the process of food import and export and completes financial transactions to ensure the availability of food products in the event of natural disasters.
Al-Dhanhani added that the availability of data is one of the best ways to overcome the challenges to achieve diversity by providing indicators on the size of food production in the country, through identifying the appropriate crops to grow and their level of water consumption. This ensures the conservation of groundwater reserves and the development of the agricultural sector through better adoption. It also balances water consumption according to weather conditions, monitors consumption processes and ensures the development of agricultural, fisheries and animal sectors. The discussion was followed by interactive dialogue and a question and answer session.
The UN World Data Forum 2018 is the most important international gathering of data and statistics in the world. It contributes to the establishment of a scientific incubator environment to enhance the role of data and statistics in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals 2030, namely food security, health and learning.
The UN World Data Forum 2018 takes place October 22-24 at Madinat Jumeirah Conference & Events Centre, Dubai, supported by a number of strategic partners, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Ministry of the Interior, the GCC Statistical Centre, Dubai Statistics Authority, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, DP World, Abu Dhabi Ports, Statistics Centre Abu Dhabi, Sharjah Department of Statistics and Community Development, Ras Al Khaimah Statistics Centre, Ajman Centre for Statistics and Competitiveness, the General Secretariat of the Executive Council in the Emirate of Umm Al Quwain, the Health Authority – Abu Dhabi, Dubai Media Incorporated, Emirates Airline, World Government Summit, Smart Solutions & Services Authority, EDIC Geospatial Services, and Habtoor City.
Dubai, September 11, 2018
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) held a meeting for heads of communication from government entities and private-sector strategic partners at its headquarters, where it showcased the progress made in preparing for the second UN World Data Forum, set to be held in Dubai in October with more than 1,500 data experts in attendance.
His Excellency Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director General, Chairman of the Organising Committee of the UN World Data Forum 2018, kicked off the meeting by outlining the vision and objectives behind the UAE’s hosting of the UN event. H.E. Lootah welcomed the attending officials – the heads of communication from the Ministry of Interior and statistics centres in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah, in addition to the General Secretariat of the Executive Council of Umm Al Quwain, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), the Smart Dubai Office (SDO) and Abu Dhabi Ports.
Participants stressed the necessity of unifying the messages coming from the various entities and aligning them with the Forum’s objectives. They went on to call for greater cooperation between heads of communication and the organising teams to ensure media coverage that is on par with the Forum’s international status and prestige, and that underlines a set of clear and concise messages on the importance of data and its role in policy- and decision-making.
The UN World Data Forum is the most prominent event of its kind in the world with a primary focus on data and statistics. With its specialised discussion panels, the event presents a platform for exploring and enhancing the role of data and statistics in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SGDs) 2030 – most notably, food security, health and education.
The three-day Forum will be held on October 22-24, 2018, at Dubai’s Madinat Jumeirah, with support from major strategic partners, namely: The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFA); the Ministry of Interior (MOI); GCC Statistical Center (GCC-STAT); the Smart Dubai Office (SDO); Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA); Dubai Statistics Center (DSC); DP World; Abu Dhabi Ports; Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi; Sharjah Department of Statistics and Community Development (DSCD); Fujairah Statistics Centre; and the General Secretariat of the Executive Council in the Emirate of Umm Al Quwain.
Dubai, September 8, 2018
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) has signed strategic partnership agreements with statistics centres across emirates to coordinate efforts to support the UN World Data Forum 2018, set to be held in Dubai on October 22-24, 2018.
Now in its second edition, the Forum will welcome 1,500 prominent experts in the field of data and statistics from around the world, to showcase the UAE’s pioneering experience in collecting, analysing and benefiting from big data.
The agreements were signed at the FCSA headquarters in Dubai by representatives from the various statistics centres, including Statistics Centre − Abu Dhabi (SCAD); Dubai Statistic Center; the Sharjah Department of Statistics and Community Development; and the Ajman Statistics and Competitiveness Centre.
His Excellency Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director General and Chairman of the Organising Committee of the UN World Data Forum 2018, said: “The Authority is committed to fostering cooperation and consolidating all efforts to ensure a successful second edition for the UN World Data Forum. Furthermore, we are working to develop efficient systems for statistics in the UAE and highlight the achievements registered in the sector. These partnerships we are forging with statistics centres across the country will help introduce all of us to international success stories and best practices in statistics and data, which, in turn, will help us position the UAE as a leading international hub for knowledge.”
For his part, H.E. Rashid Lahej Nasser Saeed Al Mansouri, Chairman of the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi, said: “The Forum’s importance lies in providing an ideal platform for sharing experiences and identifying best practices in the statistics sector; it offers an opportunity to showcase the UAE’s experience in harnessing advanced technologies and channelling them towards building national capacities and honing statistical skillsets. All of this will ultimately serve the government’s plans to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promote the welfare of the community, and ensure a better future for our coming generations.”
H.E. Arif Al Muhairi, Executive Director of Dubai Statistics Center (DSC), added: “The UN World Data Forum is a global event that will be hosted this year by the UAE. We are proud of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority and its commendable efforts to win the bid and host the Forum. With this strategic partnership now in place, we will be sparing no effort to support the Authority and ensure success of the event, which we are honoured to be part of, and especially that it will now carry the name of the UAE.”
H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Thani, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Statistics and Community Development, underlined the importance of the Forum, saying: “The UN World Data Forum is an ideal platform for sharing experiences, transferring knowledge and building partnerships to enhance data at the regional and global levels. The Sharjah Department of Statistics and Community Development is taking part in the event to assert its commitment to partnership and cooperation with the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority, as well as to ensuring that the Forum comes out with innovative results that positively influence the future of the data sector.”
Meanwhile, H.E. Dr Hajar Saeed Al Hubaishi, Executive Director of Ajman Statistics and Competitiveness Centre, revealed that the Centre will be launching a number of data-related initiatives, projects and workshops, noting: “Hosting the second edition of the Forum adds to the UAE’s commendable track record of achievements on a regional and international level. Several developed European nations came forward to host the major event – countries such as Finland and Switzerland. Nevertheless, the United Nations selected the UAE to be the host, which reflects the Emirates’ dedication to excellence; and the bid submitted by the FCSA undoubtedly played a major role in securing the nomination.”
On a similar note, Dr Ibrahim Saad, Director of the Fujairah Statistics Center, said: “The success of the UAE’s bid to host the UN World Data Forum 2018 asserts its advanced position and high competitiveness in terms of hosting international conferences. It also highlights the growing importance of data for governments around the world, which calls for further developing data collection and processing to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals 2030.”
Reiterating the significance of these agreements, Dr Ibrahim Akum, Director of Center for Statistics and Studies in Ras Al Khaimah, said: “The UN World Data Forum is growing all the more significant seeing as we live in the era of the digital revolution. Statistics – and data, in general – has become a focal point of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and a catalyst to the transformations taking place around the world. Those with an interest in statistics and data will be setting their sights on the UAE to discover the latest development in the data sector, set to be revealed at the prominent international event where local and international speakers will mingle with pioneers in statistics and data.”
H.E. Humaid Rashid Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the Executive Council of Umm Al Quwain, said: “We are proud to be coordinating and joining hands with the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority and offering our support to ensure success and excellence in organising this global Forum. We are confident that the event will, without doubt, serve as a prominent platform to share insight into practical ways for optimising data, as well as the best ways to collect and analyse it.”
The agreements signed between the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority and statistics centres in all seven emirates seek to strengthen partnerships among all signatories to gather support for the UN World Data Forum 2018, and then benefit from its outcomes and takeaways in various sectors.
Dubai, September 3 2018
The UAE’s National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which includes 17 federal entities, recently held its third meeting for 2018, primarily discussing preparations for the upcoming second edition of the UN World Data Forum, set to be held in Dubai on October 22-24, 2018.
The meeting was attended by Her Excellency Hessa Buhumaid, Minister of Community Development, and H.E. Jameela Al Muhairi, Minister of State for Public Education, both of whom applauded the Committee for its efforts and preparations for the Forum, stressing the necessity of ensuring governance when implementing SDGs and of harmonising efforts among Committee members, as per the directives of the UAE’s leadership. Their Excellencies reiterated their support for the member entities’ efforts to provide the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) with accurate and current data.
“This Committee was formed in 2017, and in its one year and eight months of existence, it has registered outstanding achievements,” said H.E. Buhumaid, expressing her delight at the fact that the representatives of the 17 member entities are young Emiratis with great enthusiasm to serve their country.
For her part, H.E. Al Muhairi said: “We all work together to promote our country and continuously enhance its international standing in terms of sustainable development, and the UN World Data Forum presents an ideal platform to showcase our national achievements. The UAE has progressed from 77th place to 60th on the SDG Index; this is testament to the exceptional leadership of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals 2030.”
Thanking Their Excellencies the Ministers for their attendance and contribution to the meeting, H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah, FCSA Director General and Chairman of the Organising Committee of the UN World Data Forum 2018, said: “Our work with the member entities of the Committee centres around the National Agenda’s metrics, which, in turn, offer the necessary support to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals 2030. Furthermore, we concentrate on data and statistics, which are essential for driving success at the Government level till 2021 and beyond.”
The 17 Committee members were thoroughly introduced to the upcoming UN World Data Forum (www.unwdf.ae) set to be held in the UAE under the theme “Better Data for Better Generations”. The event will be hosting more than 80 sessions that feature over 100 speakers from all around the world.
The team organising the Forum reiterated its potential as a platform for forging international partnerships and closer relations with the private sector – a key step for implementing SDGs. The meeting then moved on to a case study on DP World and its progress in achieving SDGs locally, regionally and internationally.
On the same note, the team outlined the progress made with regards to the Global Leadership Councils for SDGs initiative, announced at the World Government Summit, where work is underway to expand these Councils.
The National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals holds periodic meetings at the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority’s headquarters in Dubai.
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center (FCSC) revealed the results of the UAE Security Quality of Life Survey 2021, which indicated that the level of trust in the police agencies in the country and their reliance in law enforcement exceeded 98.4%. The survey was conducted in the field and included a wide range of individuals in public places aged 18 years and over, males and females, in all emirates of the country. The field survey aimed to measure the opinion of the community in the UAE about the quality of security life in the country, the extent of the general impression of the community about the levels of feeling safe, the extent of trust in the Ministry of Interior agencies, the level of trust in police stations in the country and the extent to which they feel reliable by members of the community in the country.
Trust
Hanan Ahli, Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center, said: "The results of the UAE Security Quality of Life Survey 2021 are among the highest in the world, and it is a source of pride and confidence in the security and police agencies shown by the community in the UAE, and the percentage of trust in the police in the country and its reliance in law enforcement exceeded 98.4%.
The percentage of feeling Safety when roaming alone outside the house at night 97.5%, as well as the result of the third indicator, which is to measure the extent of trust in the police station near you, achieved 96.4%.
Her Excellency continued: "The UAE Security Quality of Life Survey is one of the innovative surveys, which reflects an accurate impression of the reality of society, and the high confidence shown by the survey outputs in the police and security apparatus in the country, as well as the results of the global competitiveness reports issued by international institutions.
The UAE ranked first globally in the feeling of safely walking alone at night in the "Law and Order 2021" report issued by the international research firm "Gallup", and this advanced level achieved by the UAE in both field survey results or excellence in global competitiveness reports is attributed to the wise directives of the wise leadership in the country, and the tireless efforts made by the police and security agencies, led by the Ministry of Interior under the leadership of Lt. General His Highness Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister. Minister of the Interior.
His Excellency Mohamed Hassan, Executive Director of the Statistics Sector at the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center: "The high results achieved by the indicators of confidence in the Ministry of Interior and safety indicators, which were shown by the UAE Security and Quality of Life Survey, are a reflection of the extent of the UAE society’s confidence in the police and security apparatus in the country. Which was measured with high accuracy, through personal interviews that surveyed the opinions of those included in the random sample, and conducted by field researchers from the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center, as well as the teams of national statistical centers in the country".
Methodology
It is worth mentioning that the Security and Quality of Life Survey, which has been measured by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center since 2017, is carried out through an approved methodology designed within a representative sample of the community and collected through local statistics centers in the country. The data is analyzed, conclusions and outputs are drawn then recommendations and proposals get submitted to decision-makers to support the improvement of policies and the formulation of initiatives and improvement plans that increase the sense of security in the UAE society.
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center (FCSC) has signed an memorandum of understanding with the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) to enhance national capabilities in data science and artificial intelligence. This came within the activities of the " Mobilising Big Data and Data Science for the Sustainable Development Goals" forum, which was organized at Expo 2020 Dubai in cooperation with the United Nations Expert Group on Big Data and Official Statistics. The partnership seeks to establish a foundation for mutual strategic cooperation between national institutions in supporting youth issues, developing artificial intelligence applications and data science, and building national capacities to accelerate the achievement of sustainable development goals.
The agreement aims to consolidate strategic cooperation between the two parties by providing specialized training programs in the field of artificial intelligence and data science.
Professor Eric Xing, President of MBZUAI, said: "The signing of this agreement with the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center represents an important step towards building national capabilities in the field of data and artificial intelligence by aligning projects and training programs with national goals, both employees and students at the university will benefit from this cooperation.
Her Excellency Hanan Ahli, Acting Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center, said that this memorandum represents a roadmap for joint cooperation and benefiting from artificial intelligence solutions and applications to be used by experts at the center to analyze and process data, as well as providing the opportunity to use data in the research and projects of university students as well as in the research of professors and researchers.
Data and technology experts applaud the launch of the global platform for big data for sustainable development goals in the United Arab Emirates.
Several high-ranking officials and experts from government and private sectors, as well as those working in the information and communications technology sector in the country, have commended the importance of the launch of the United Nations platform for big data for sustainable development goals. This launch took place at Expo Dubai 2020 and was attended by more than 86 international experts in 16 sessions. It was witnessed by high-ranking government officials in the country, United Nations officials, and big data experts from more than 22 countries around the world, in addition to top executives from various international and national companies, as well as academics and students.
Regarding the importance of the forum, Dr. Saeed Saif Al Matrooshi, Secretary-General of the Ajman Executive Council, emphasized that the Government of Ajman, under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman and Chairman of the Executive Council, is eager to learn about distinguished practices and pioneering experiences to stay updated with developments and propose innovative solutions in the field of big data. Big data has revolutionized the world of statistics and its future globally.
His Excellency Ahmed Mahmoud Fikri, Director-General of SCAD, stressed the importance of participation and cooperation in global events and conferences related to big data and artificial intelligence technologies, especially those related to achieving sustainable development goals. He highlighted the global and regional significance of this forum, held in conjunction with Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week. The week serves as a platform bringing together experts, decision-makers, government officials, and business leaders from the region and around the world to exchange experiences and discuss best practices.
Eng. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Deputy Director-General of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority for the Information and Digital Government Sector, stated that the launch of the United Nations Big Data Platform for Sustainable Development Goals in the UAE marks a significant qualitative leap in the country’s strategic role in all areas related to digital transformation, particularly in the big data sector. The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) is pleased to participate in this forum due to its substantial value and impact in utilizing data to achieve sustainable development goals for the benefit of humanity.
His Excellency Younus Al Nasser, Assistant Director-General at Digital Dubai and CEO of Dubai Data Establishment, emphasized the effective contribution of public and private sector data to accelerate the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. By collaborating and analyzing available data from cities, use cases can be identified that not only stimulate economic growth but also have a positive impact on people and the environment.
Her Excellency Thuraya Al Hashimi, Executive Director of the Digital Data Enabling Sector at FCSC, attributed the success of the UAE in hosting the regional headquarters to the collective efforts of the center’s team and the support of its government and national statistical center partners in the country. They have worked closely with the scientific community, researchers, and statisticians, all of whom have commended the UAE’s efforts in keeping pace with global developments and advancing new methodologies and frameworks to link various big data systems while adapting to changes in the global statistical system. This effort also supports global initiatives aimed at achieving sustainable development goals.
Eng. Anwar Mohammed Al-Shammari, Executive Director of the Geospatial Information Governance Sector at the Federal Center for Geographical Information, stressed the importance of promoting and developing the big data sector and industry in the country. This sector plays a strategic role in the country’s journey toward digital transformation and enhances the role of data in supporting efforts to achieve sustainable development goals, particularly in the spatial data sector.
Dr. Hajar Al Hubaishi, Executive Director of Ajman Statistics and Competitiveness Center, underlined the significance of building strategic partnerships and exchanging experiences to promote access to a knowledge-based economy, aligning with the strategic goal of the country.
Dina Fares, Acting Director General of Ajman Digital Government, emphasized that the launch of the platform represents a significant qualitative leap in the strategic role played by the UAE in the big data sector and in achieving sustainable development goals.
Among private sector participants, Samer Assem, General Manager of Al Mazrouei & Partners, highlighted that big data has become an essential tool for the success of businesses in various industries, especially those relying on digital infrastructure for manufacturing, sales, or distribution.
Eng. Waleed Al-Nokrashy, CEO of UAE Digital Lab, specializing in digital transformation, emphasized that the advanced infrastructure of the UAE makes it a focal point for international companies specialized in data, creating an inspiring environment for smart societies.
The forum witnessed the development of strategic partnerships and received substantial support from local and international entities in the public and private sectors, both locally and globally.
Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy: The UAE has placed sustainable development at the heart of its strategies since its establishment to ensure prosperity and development
Minister of State for International Cooperation and Chair of the National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals, Her Excellency Reem Bint Ibrahim Al Hashimy, affirmed that the government of the United Arab Emirates adopts the Sustainable Development Goals and supports the United Nations’ vision in accelerating the achievement of these goals for the betterment of societies and people.
This came on the occasion of holding the first meetings of the Committee for the year 2022 within the agenda Global Sustainable Development Goals Week, held from From 15 to 19 January, at Expo 2020 Dubai.
Her Excellency said that under the directions of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan president of the United Arab Emirates, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Nahyan Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander for the armed forces, the UAE is keen to maintain its advanced position and to Remains the global leader in launching the most important programs and initiatives that support communities humanity around the world, and playing a leading and active role in achieving development goals sustainable, based on an innovative scientific methodology based on Visions & Plans A knowledge-based strategy based on factual and accurate data and statistics reflects the reality of the world."
The Chairperson of the Committee stressed that the UAE has put sustainable development in the core of its plans and strategies since its establishment, to ensure the prosperity and development of the country and its citizens. Noting the importance of joint work between all federal and local government entities, and effective coordination between the government and private sectors and strengthening partnership with the community to achieve the objectives of the agenda in the country.
Her Excellency said: "There is not much time left for the deadline, international communities must focus on action and implementation by 2030. The challenges facing the world are growing in magnitude and complexity, it has therefore become vital to adopt immediate solutions that mitigate obstacles relatively smaller, enabling individuals and organizations to operate efficiently and effectively with the biggest and most complex challenges in the medium and long term."
Her Excellency commended the committee members for their dedicated efforts in advancing diverse social, economic, and environmental initiatives both within the country and internationally. She emphasized that the Sustainable Development Goals are more than just a global approach or an international agenda; they are a humanitarian mission aimed at enhancing societies and the well-being of individuals, who are the foundation of developmental endeavors in communities. The Sustainable Development Goals play a significant and pivotal role within Expo 2020, offering an unprecedented opportunity to spearhead global efforts towards ensuring a sustainable future, fostering positive transformations, and envisioning new horizons in the field of sustainability, not only within the UAE but also on a global scale.
His Excellency Abdullah Lootah: "The year 2022 is very important in the UAE’s journey to achieve sustainability goals, as it coincides with the beginning of the country’s march towards the next fifty years"
The meeting was chaired by H.E. Abdullah Nasser Lootah, Vice Chairman of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, chaired the first meeting in 2022, which witnessed the attendance of Dr. Hussein Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Under-Secretary for Centres and Health Clinics in the Ministry of Health and Prevention; Hanan Mansour Ahli, Acting Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, and members of the National Committee on SDGs. A number of sessions, presentations and discussions were held, reviewing various initiatives and steps taken by the Committee during the past year, and discussed strategies and priorities for the next stage, including efforts and plans to promote the achievement of development goals in the nation.
Abdullah Lootah stated that 2022 marks a significant milestone in the UAE’s journey towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. This coincides with the commencement of the nation’s journey towards the next fifty years, during which various initiatives and programs will be launched to support the vision of the wise leadership in realizing the pillars of the UAE Centennial 2071. This effort aligns with global sustainability priorities and has been recognized by the United Nations as a "decade of work" dedicated to achieving these goals.
Hanan Ahli: New plans, ideas and initiatives reflect positively on the process of achieving Sustainable Development Goals.
H.E. Hanan Mansour Ahli, Acting Director of the Federal Competitiveness Statistics Centre, remarked that the committee members and their dedicated teams demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability. Despite the challenges posed by the global landscape, be it the lingering impacts of the "Covid-19" pandemic or the fluctuations in climate and geopolitical dynamics, they successfully developed plans, ideas, initiatives, and proposals for the year 2022. These discussions and deliberations exemplified a shared spirit of integration, consensus, and unwavering determination to propel the UAE forward.
Hanan Ahli further emphasized, "The UAE has made significant strides in the realm of sustainable development, receiving accolades from major international institutions that meticulously assess the country’s performance across a wide array of competitive indicators tied to sustainable development. The UAE proudly claimed the top global ranking in 97 of these indicators linked to Sustainable Development Goals and secured a position among the top ten on a global scale in 268 other indicators. To reinforce our leadership position both regionally and internationally, it becomes imperative to redouble government efforts in the pursuit of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Additionally, fostering collaborations between the public and private sectors is vital to advance these objectives, making sustainable development an overarching societal priority in the UAE."
She noted, "The comprehensive data supplied by government agencies plays a pivotal role in advancing the UAE’s endeavors to realize the Sustainable Development Goals. It aids in the development of innovative initiatives and informed decision-making based on precise and accurate data." Hanan Ahli emphasized the significance of harnessing the global platform provided by Expo 2020 and the array of international events and activities it hosts. These events offer a unique opportunity to showcase the UAE’s successful experiences in achieving these goals on a global stage.
Projects Fast and high-impact companies.
During the meeting, committee members reached a consensus on the paramount importance of prioritizing planning and executing projects and initiatives that are characterized by their swiftness and ease of implementation, while also ensuring they yield substantial and clearly visible impacts. They underscored the significance of collaborative efforts among the government agencies involved in the Committee to reinforce the nation’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals.
Furthermore, the meeting highlighted the most prominent efforts and initiatives undertaken at both national and international levels. It was noted that the global partnerships established by the UAE have played a crucial role in assisting countries and communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. This support included providing medical and food assistance to various parts of the world, aligning with the objectives of Sustainable Development, such as eradicating hunger, combating poverty, and ensuring access to sound healthcare, among other vital goals.
The National Committee for Sustainable Development Goals, established in 2017, is dedicated to the implementation of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. This committee plays a pivotal role in aligning the UAE’s national development priorities with the UN’s developmental goals, facilitating information-sharing among stakeholders, and supporting the integrated implementation of these developmental objectives. Comprising of 17 members, its mission is to provide essential support for goal implementation, monitor progress, and engage stakeholders in the collective efforts to achieve these objectives. Additionally, the committee collaborates in aligning sustainable development goals with the UAE’s national agenda, including the National Wellbeing Strategy, and works in coordination with the youth, the private sector, and knowledge institutions to ensure the effective implementation of these vital development goals.
Dubai (Union) – The Higher Committee for Coordinating Statistical Work at the national level had its fourth meeting at the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre in Dubai; where they discussed the National Statistics Strategy plan, as part of its efforts to enhance continuous assessments of new emerging needs and improve the efficiency of the statistical system to serve development programs at both the national and international levels. The meeting was attended by H.E. Sheikh Sultan bin Abdullah Al Qasimi, Director of the Department of Statistics and Community Development, H.E. Hanan Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre and Chairman of the Committee, H.E. Abdullah Gharib AlQemzi, Acting Director General of the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi, H.E. Younus Al Nasser, Assistant Director General, Digital Dubai & CEO, Dubai Data Establishment, Dr. Hajar Al Hubaishi, Executive Director of Ajman Statistics Center, Najwa Yaqoub, Executive Director of the Ras Al Khaimah Center for Statistics and Studies, and H.E. Dr. Ibrahim Saad, Director of Fujairah Statistics Center. H.E. Hanan Ahli, emphasized the importance of enhancing cooperation between the statistical entities in the country through the exchange of knowledge and experiences and unifying standards of statistical processes. She pointed out that the upcoming action plan will prioritize designing the future statistical system and ways to improve the competitiveness of the UAE in global reports and indicators. She highlighted the importance of focusing on technical areas with a high impact on the national statistical strategy. The Committee stressed the importance of the participation of the UAE delegation in the fifty-fifth session of the United Nations Statistical Commission, in coordination with the Office of the Permanent Mission of the UAE to the United Nations, as the meetings of the Committee represent an ideal opportunity to build channels of communication and fruitful cooperation with international statistical authorities. It is worth mentioning that the Higher Committee for Coordinating Statistical Work was established at the national level in 2016 as a national initiative aimed at enhancing partnership opportunities, developing mechanisms for joint work, intensifying coordination among statistical entities in areas of statistical work development, and designing policies and implementing strategies based on data supporting decision-making processes.
International day of sign language
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, received, at his office at the Amiri Diwan, the members of the Higher Committee for Coordination of Statistical Work at the State level
Professor Jeffrey D. Sachs, President of the UN Sustainable Development
Highlights of H.E Noor AlKhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development
Intro to UNCEBD Task Team Training Competencies Capacity Level
UN Regional Hub for BIG DATA in UAE WEBINAR SERIES
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