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DATA FOR A BETTER FUTURE
New York-USA. 20 July 2025 – The UAE has held its first national exhibition at the United Nations (UN) Headquarters in New York City, as part of the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development 2025.
Titled “Shaping Tomorrow: UAE Leadership for a Sustainable Future”, the exhibition reflects the UAE’s commitment to expanding international action to achieve SDGs, as well as its involvement in shaping the future of global development.
The inauguration was attended by Her Excellency Amina Mohammed, UN Deputy Secretary-General; His Excellency Ambassador Mohamed Abushahab, Permanent Representative of the UAE to the UN; 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, and head of the UAE delegation participating in the HLPF; alongside representatives from international organizations and government delegations from around the world.
Platform for Showcasing Inclusive Development
The exhibition was organised jointly by entities including the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Investment, Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), Dubai Chambers, and Noor Dubai Foundation, a member of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI). The entities showcased their experiences and globally replicable initiatives in sustainable development, including in innovation, climate action, community empowerment.
Beyond 2030: Four Pillars for Development
The exhibition is the first of its kind organised by the UAE at the UN HLPF. It offers an engaging experience that highlights the UAE’s sustainable development journey since the 2002 Rio+10 Summit. The exhibition is a continuation of the dialogue launched by the UAE with 170+ leaders and decision-makers during the World Government Summit (WGS) 2023.
The exhibition showcases the Extended SDGs (XDGs) framework. It is based on four core pillars: integrating sustainability into national policies and legislation; monitoring impact through accurate indicators and data; developing a flexible development model through ‘Future Zones’; and enhancing international partnerships through knowledge sharing, particularly through the Government Experience Exchange Programme.
HE Abdullah Lootah: the Exhibition Reflects UAE’s Commitment to a More Sustainable Future
His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah said: “The UAE is committed to sharing best practices and successful experiences with partners around the world.
The ‘Shaping Tomorrow” exhibition embodies the UAE’s vision for a global development pathway based on partnership, knowledge sharing, and innovation. This reflects the UAE’s approach to creating solutions that can be scaled globally and reflects its commitment to supporting global dialogue on the post-2030 era. This includes initiatives like the Government Experience Exchange Programme.”
National Initiatives Supporting Global Goals
The exhibition highlighted major national development efforts that have had global impact. The Ministry of Interior showcased its “Green Justice” initiative in Latin America, aimed at combating transnational environmental crimes, as part of its efforts supporting SDG 17.
Meanwhile, the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) presented its contributions to financing projects in 100+ countries, supporting infrastructure, education, and renewable energy.
The Supreme Committee for Motherhood and Childhood showcased its initiatives aimed at empowering women and children, including the “National Child Empowerment Guide” and the “Emirati Children’s Parliament,” which enhance children’s participation in decision-making in support of SDG 5.
Noor Dubai Foundation presented its model for combating visual impairments in support of SDG 3. This includes the iBSAR project in Asia and Africa, which provides preventive and therapeutic care.
EAD showcased its efforts in protecting marine ecosystems through initiatives such as the “Marine Turtle Protection Program” and smart monitoring technologies for coral reefs, aligning with SDG 14.
UAE Model for Integrated Development
These initiatives exemplify the integration between the UAE’s national vision and its global commitments, by linking local policies with international development goal.
- Women empowerment foundational to all 2030 SDGs, hears high-level roundtable at UN HLPF
- UAE delegation hosts roundtable on innovation and bridging the digital gender gap
Dubai- UAE. 19 July 2025 – The UAE has reaffirmed the critical role of women empowerment and gender equality in achieving the United Nations’ (UN) 2030 Agenda during the 2025 High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development in New York.
The UAE delegation highlighted the nation’s model for women empowerment, gender equality, and its focus on motherhood and childhood as the basis for inclusive and sustainable growth. The UAE built this model through the comprehensive empowerment system that it provides for women and families, who form the nucleus of society and guarantee the sustainability of human, social, and economic development.
The UAE delegation presented national policies and legislation that have contributed to increasing the number of women in leadership and decision-making positions. This includes the Equal Pay Law and the Constitution guaranteeing equal opportunities for both genders.
The delegation highlighted several milestones, including the fact that women now represent 50% of Federal National Council members and 26% of Cabinet members. Women also constitute 46% of STEM graduates in the UAE and 80% of the scientific leadership team in the Emirates Mars Mission.
The delegation also addressed the UAE’s role in supporting women empowerment globally through initiatives like Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak’s Women in Peace and Security Initiative. The delegation concluded by reiterating the UAE’s willingness to share its expertise and success with the international community to promote gender equality towards 2030 and beyond.
Promoting innovation and bridging the digital gender gap
The National Secretariat on SDGs and the UAE Consulate General in New York City hosted a roundtable on ‘Accelerating Innovation in Promoting Gender Equality to Continue Achieving Sustainable Development in the Post-2030.’
The discussion explored bridging the digital gender gap, transforming the care economy, and empowering women in leadership. It presented scalable solutions and practical models to drive progress around SDG 5.
The discussion featured contributions from Her Excellency Savannah Mazhya, Minister of Information and Communications Technology in the Kingdom of Eswatini and Chair of the Global Council for SDG 5; His Excellency Abdulla Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on SDGs; Dr Manal Taryam, CEO and Board Member of Noor Dubai Foundation; while other participants included Chelsea Molden, Executive Director of the Public Policy Lab; Stephanie Sirota from RTW Investments in Life Sciences; and Andrew Billo, Head of Partnerships at the UN Initiative to End Violence Against Women and Girls.
HE Lootah: ‘The UAE has built a pioneering global model that supports social progress
HE Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on SDGs, said: “Over decades of sustainable development centred on the family, the UAE has made community empowerment both the finish line and the starting point of development. This approach is what the UAE is ready to share with everyone around the world.
“Through the UAE’s participation in HLPF, and through the delegation’s meetings and partnerships, we are sharing knowledge gained in empowering society to ensure inclusive development.”
Additionally, the UAE delegation shared the country’s experiences in establishing the National Committee on SDGs in 2017 during its participation in an event organised by the Government of Qatar to introduce the agenda of the second edition of the Global Summit for Social Development, which will be held in Doha from 4-6 November.
On the first day of the 2025 United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development, organized by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) at UN Headquarters in New York, the UAE delegation emphasized the crucial role of advanced healthcare systems in accelerating achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) globally by 2030.
The delegation highlighted the UAE’s efforts to support Goal 3, ensuring good health and well-being, emphasizing the importance of innovation in healthcare systems’ development and deployment to achieve sustainable development worldwide.
The UAE provides the fundamentals for sustainable development
His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange, and Chair of the National Committee on SDGs, affirmed that the UAE relies on fruitful partnerships and experience exchange principles in launching and implementing programs that make a positive development difference internationally, especially in communities most in need of support, such as those in the Global South.
Lootah stated: “The UAE is a trusted global supporter in accelerating the achievement of the UN SDGs for 2030. It is keen on implementing practical initiatives worldwide that have a continuous impact, providing sustainability for development and disseminating their benefits to the largest number of beneficiaries, including projects supporting the healthcare sector in developing communities.”
He added: “Investing in strategic projects with long-term extended impact in vital sectors that support achieving sustainable development such as health, knowledge, and awareness is a vital investment in people, the focal point of development, and in human capital, which creates opportunities for the future. This is the UAE’s approach to development locally and globally, which we are committed to sharing through partnerships, knowledge exchange, and expertise with everyone,” reiterating the strategic dimension’s importance to ensure sustainability of development project impacts for future generations.
Shaping the Future
From the platform of the exhibition ‘Shaping Tomorrow: UAE Leadership for a Sustainable Future,’ the UAE delegation presents a multi-faceted picture of the country’s contributions to achieving SDGs, including enhancing local and global healthcare systems. The exhibition introduces UAE’s global initiatives supporting sustainable development in vital areas, including innovative healthcare, policy design inclusive of all, and global transformative partnerships.
Focus on Healthcare
The healthcare sector and its developmental projects made a significant presence at the exhibition organized by the UAE in HLPF, highlighting progress and impact of its development initiatives for healthcare systems at the national level and in communities most in need of support and assistance. The exhibition also demonstrated the role of partnerships established by the UAE and entities within its delegation to the forum in accelerating development pathways, including fruitful healthcare work in awareness, prevention, and treatment.
Beyond 2030
The UAE’s delegation to the forum organized a high-impact roundtable session at the Permanent Mission of the UAE to the United Nations, presenting new visions for healthcare systems and their role in sustainable development beyond 2030.
The high-impact roundtable session, organized by the National Committee on SDGs; The Consulate General of the UAE in New York; and the Noor Dubai Foundation as part of the country’s delegation to the HLPF, focused on the importance of healthcare innovations, expanding their development and deployment to accelerate achieving Goal 3: ensuring global access to good health and well-being. The session also highlighted the link between achieving Goal 3 and several other development objectives, including Goal 1: ending poverty in all its forms everywhere and Goal 13: focusing on taking urgent action to combat climate change to achieve a healthy future for generations.
Participants in the session worked on developing preliminary models for comprehensive health development solutions contributing to achieving SDGs 2030 and beyond. The attendees recognized the role of primary healthcare networks supported by AI at the Noor Dubai Foundation, along with international tools and opportunities available for financing climate health solutions, in developing a comprehensive framework for current goals and future goals proposed by the UAE for 2045, focusing on multi-sectoral international cooperation.
The session concluded on the necessity of linking innovation to actual needs, collaboration in shared health and preventive responsibilities, and leveraging data as catalysts for action.
Sustainable Health Umbrella
Dr. Manal Omran Taryam, CEO and Board Member of the Noor Dubai Foundation, delivered the UAE’s statement at the forum on Goal 3 and its linkages with other goals. She said: “In the UAE, we believe that health is an inherent right, only completed by integrating all elements of healthcare under a unified, integrated, and sustainable umbrella.”
Dr. Manal Taryam added: “Technology and innovation are the core of the UAE’s approach to achieving sustainable development, where investment in telemedicine, AI, and smart screening tools contribute to removing geographic barriers and ensuring access to healthcare for all. We are proud of initiatives such as the Noor Dubai Foundation, one of the initiatives of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), which since 2008 has improved the lives of more than 33 million people in Asia and Africa through comprehensive teleophthalmology programs and innovative solutions such as ‘Ibsar’ project.”
HLPF on Sustainable Development 2025
The HLPF on Sustainable Development Forum represents the UN’s primary platform on sustainable development solutions. Since its establishment in 2012, the forum has played a pivotal role in monitoring and reviewing the progress made toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals for 2030.
The United Arab Emirates delegation will participate in the upcoming 2025 United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development, organized by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) at UN Headquarters in New York.
The delegation will showcase the UAE’s comprehensive development model, reaffirming its commitment to accelerate progress toward the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through multinational partnerships.
The UAE delegation will focus on five priority goals: Goal 3 – ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages; Goal 5 – achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls; Goal 8 – promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, productive employment, and decent opportunities for all; Goal 14 – conserving and sustainably using oceans, seas, and marine resources; and Goal 17 – strengthening global partnerships for sustainable development.
The UAE delegation includes members from the UAE’s National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Investment, The Government Experience Exchange Programme, Dubai Chamber of Commerce, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, and Noor Dubai Foundation (under the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives), in coordination with the UAE’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York.
His Excellency Abdullah Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, reaffirmed that UAE’s participation reflects its international commitment to advancing the 2030 SDGs in innovation, technology, and smart governance. He emphasized the importance of expanding global partnerships in knowledge and development exchange.
On the sidelines of HLPF, the UAE delegation is organizing a focused global retreat to discuss current challenges and explore future opportunities and a dedicated exhibition showcasing the UAE’s progress and achievements in accelerating the implementation of the SDGs both locally and globally. In addition, the delegation will highlight initiatives in clean energy, digital transformation, education, and healthcare.
As part of the preparations for the UAE’s participation, the National Committee on the SDGs held an extensive meeting to assess the readiness of the delegation and review progress on the implementation of the SDGs. The meeting explored opportunities to expand international cooperation and sign new agreements during the Forum.
Held under the “Reinforcing sustainable, inclusive, and evidence-based solutions to deliver the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs, leaving no one behind”, the 2025 forum will run from 14 to 23 July 2025 with a total of 37 countries presenting their voluntary national reviews on the progress made toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals to date.
The UAE, represented by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC), participated in the 17th Meeting of Heads of National Statistical Offices of BRICS, held in Fortaleza, Brazil. The meeting saw the participation of high-level delegations as part of the Triple International Forum on Global South Governance.
The meeting focused on vital topics aimed at strengthening statistical cooperation among BRICS countries. Discussions included the production of digital age indicators, exchange of national experiences in economic development, poverty reduction, climate change mitigation, international statistical training, and joint publications such as the Joint Statistical Publication (JSP) of the BRICS group. These efforts aim to strengthen statistical cooperation frameworks, paving the way for further integration in data production and support for development policies within the group’s countries.
Hanan Ahli: UAE Supports Global Dialogue on Shaping a Data-Driven Future Enhanced by Statistical Innovation
Her Excellency Hanan Mansour Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, affirmed that UAE’s participation reflects its commitment to supporting global dialogue on shaping a data-driven future, enhancing its governance through a flexible and comprehensive knowledge system that responds to national priorities and aligns with global trends. By leveraging statistical innovation tools and enhancing cognitive integration, the aim is to build more sustainable communities.
Hanan Ahli added, “We look forward to strengthening cooperation frameworks with BRICS countries through the UN Global Platform Regional Hub in the UAE, contributing to the development of indicators that reflect the digital age realities and support joint efforts and knowledge exchange in this vital field.”
The UAE delegation highlighted the importance of developing modern statistical tools that reflect digital transformations in national economies, reaffirming the country’s commitment to enhancing international partnerships in data and evidence-based policy support. The delegation also showcased UAE’s efforts in developing data infrastructure, enabling innovation in statistical work, and deploying modern technologies such as AI and big data to support sustainable development strategies.
The UAE delegation stated that enhancing coordination and aligning the Joint Statistical Publication (JSP) of the BRICS group with public policy requirements is necessary, focusing on the specific nature and development needs of the group’s countries to enhance the effectiveness of data in decision-making processes.
It is worth mentioning that BRICS Heads of National Statistical Offices Meetings serve as a high-level platform bringing together decision-makers and international experts in statistics and big data to exchange experiences, discuss opportunities for effective cooperation and partnerships, and explore the latest innovative practices in statistical work, contributing to the development of quality initiatives that support continuous assessment of evolving needs at regional and international levels.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, has chaired a Cabinet meeting held at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi.
The meeting was attended by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court; H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence; H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance; H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of the Interior.
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said, “I chaired a Cabinet meeting at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, where we reviewed the UAE’s performance in the 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking. The UAE ranked 5th globally, alongside the world’s leading countries in economic competitiveness, government efficiency, legislative strength, and business environment excellence. Sixteen years ago, we established a competitiveness center, uniting the efforts of key national entities. These efforts have elevated the UAE’s ranking from 28th globally in 2009 to being among the top five globally in competitiveness. In the same report, the UAE ranked 1st globally in the absence of bureaucracy index, 2nd globally in government policies adaptability index, and 4th globally in government efficiency index. This achievement is a testament to years of consistent effort. With the vision of my brother, Mohamed bin Zayed, our future will continue to be even brighter and stronger.”
The UAE Cabinet reviewed the 2025 Global Competitiveness Ranking results, published by the IMD World Competitiveness Center in Lausanne, Switzerland. This year, the UAE is ranked among the top five globally, scoring 96.09 out of 100 points. The country advanced two positions from last year, surpassing countries such as the United States, Sweden, Germany, and Canada, while maintaining its top ranking as the regional leader for the ninth consecutive year.
The report evaluates 69 countries based on four key areas: economic performance, government efficiency, business efficiency, and infrastructure. Its findings cover 341 competitiveness indicators across economic, administrative, and social fields.
The 2025 edition also introduced five new indicators: food waste, environmental performance, freely elected government, passport mobility, and media bias.
This year, the UAE made significant progress in the business efficiency pillar, rising seven spots to rank third globally. It also maintained a strong standing globally in economic performance and government efficiency, ranking second and fourth, respectively.
The UAE’s exceptional performance in key sectors contributed to its leadership in 113 global indicators across the report’s main and sub-pillars. The country ranked first globally in 22 indicators, including employment rate, absence of bureaucracy, availability of global expertise, digital transformation in companies, venture capital, inbound mobility of higher education students, public-private partnerships, energy infrastructure, and female parliamentary representation.
The UAE also ranked second globally in social cohesion, flexibility of residency laws, and government policy adaptability, while securing third globally in graduates in sciences, leverage of digital tools and technology, and healthcare infrastructure.
The UAE’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) reached AED 1.776 billion in 2024, recording a growth rate of 4% compared to 2023. The non-oil GDP grew by 5%, amounting to AED 1.342 billion, while oil-related sectors and activities contributed AED 434 billion.
His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, stated that the GDP figures issued by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC) for 2024 represent a new notable achievement for the national economy. Affirming the UAE’s key breakthroughs under the vision and directives of its wise leadership, in driving economic diversification and enhancing global competitiveness. By the end of last year, non-oil sectors accounted for 75.5% of the country’s total GDP.
His Excellency added that these indicators reflect the success of the UAE’s economic strategies and policies aimed at transitioning to an innovative, knowledge-based, and sustainable economic model, in line with emerging trends and advanced technologies.
H.E. further stated, “We continue to enhance our national efforts under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. These efforts support the economic targets of the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision, which aims to raise the GDP to AED 3 trillion by the next decade and strengthen the UAE’s position as a global hub for the new economy, ensuring sustainable development, leadership, and international competitiveness.”
Her Excellency Hanan Mansour Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, affirmed that the 4% growth in the UAE’s GDP last year reflects the strong performance of the national economy, which is supported by a forward-looking vision focused on sustainable, non-oil-driven growth.
H.E. noted that the UAE’s leadership continues to build a pioneering and globally advanced economic model, where economic diversification remains a key pillar and catalyst for sustainable development, community prosperity, and continued national achievements. This approach helps ensure the sustainability of GDP growth and progress across various economic and development indicators.
Top Performing Economic Activities
In terms of the most dynamic economic sectors in 2024 compared to 2023, transport and storage sector led the way with a 9.6% growth, driven by strong performance in passenger traffic and flight operations across UAE airports, which handled 147.8 million travelers, reflecting an annual growth of nearly 10%.
The construction sector expanded by 8.4%, supported by substantial investment in urban infrastructure projects. Financial and insurance activities grew by 7%, while the hospitality sector, including restaurants and hotels, increased by 5.7%, and real estate activities rose by 4.8%.
Among non-oil economic activities, trade was the largest contributor to GDP, accounting for 16.8%, followed by manufacturing at 13.5%, financial and insurance activities at 13.2%, construction at 11.7%, and real estate at 7.8%.
FCSA: 9.1 million is UAE population in December 2016
Dubai, UAE – August 3rd 2017
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority announced today that the UAE population for the year 2016 is 9,121,167 according to administrative records dated until 31 December 2016. The population administrative records also showed that 6,298,294 are male and 2,822,873 are female, making the gender split in the UAE 69% male and 31% female.
The UAE is considered among the first countries in the region to reveal population count relying on national administrative data methodology. This methodology pertains many advantages such as very high accuracy, speed of processing and dissemination of data and significant financial savings in costs of field count and survey operation. Whereas there is virtually no direct cost in disseminating data based on national administrative records.
"Since the inception of the FCSA, one of our strategic objectives has always been to spare no effort in evolving and modernizing the statistical ecosystem in the United Arab Emirates in accordance with best and most advanced global standards and best practices,” said Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Director General, Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority. “And thanks to the successful collaboration and support of our national partners and stakeholders in the UAE, we can now unveil the most up-to-date UAE population for the year 2016. We will be able to update the population number on annual basis."
Population data is one of the most important national data sets and is used for research, planning, decision-making support and policy formation. With the official population now available, UAE government entities, the international organizations and private sector will be able to use tis number in their research and studies.
DUBAI, 12th July, 2017 (WAM) –
Senior officials of Smart Dubai Office, SDO, have discussed with a high-level delegation from the Federal Authority for Competitiveness and Statistics ways to enhance mutual cooperation. Discussions also involved how to activate mechanisms and frameworks for joint work by the two entities, and to explore prospects for building future partnerships that serve common aspirations. Held at the Dubai Smart Office HQ, the meeting was chaired by Dr. Aisha bint Butti bin Bishr, Director-General of the Smart Dubai Office, and attended by Younis Al Nasser, CEO of Dubai Data Establishment, Wesam Lootah, CEO of Smart Dubai Government, Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Director-General of the Federal Authority for Competitiveness and Statistics, and Mohamed Ahli, Executive Director of Statistics Sector, in addition to a number of officials from both entities.
Dr. Bin Bishr expressed her delight in exploring new horizons of fruitful partnership with the Federal Authority for Competitiveness and Statistics, and described the meeting as an ideal opportunity to consolidate efforts at all levels.
Smart Dubai has strategic partners that contributed to more than 137 smart initiatives and 1,129 smart services to the people. Holding such meetings at the local and federal levels underlines the importance of the concerted efforts to ensure the success of the Smart City model and export it to the world. It also sheds light on the methodologies and strategies needed to put Dubai at the forefront of smart cities, and highlight its position as a global model in adopting and employing modern technology for a sustainable future."
She stressed the need to work diligently and dedicate smart initiatives in all sectors to contribute to sustainable development and achieve the strategic goals in accordance with the vision of the wise leadership, which in turn contributes to positioning the emirate as a global destination on various levels and, achieve the happiness of the people of the UAE.
The meeting reviewed SDO’s role in spearheading the efforts to transform Dubai into a smart city. The roadmap and timeframe for Dubai Smart 2021 vision were presented at the meeting and a comprehensive presentation was made to the visiting delegation, explaining the initiatives and projects launched by SDO. The two sides also discussed ways to speed up joint institutional work to achieve the strategic objectives of both institutions.
Mr. Lootah said, "The success of our strategy that aims to enhance UAE international competitiveness and modernize the national statistical ecosystem depends on the successful partnership and collaboration of our partners in both federal and local government sector.
Our experience with Smart Dubai has always been valuable, as we learn from their innovative approaches and their commitment to achieve their goals and objectives. I look forward to our future collaboration with Smart Dubai on projects that will service the UAE society and brings them happiness and prosperity."
The delegation reviewed key performance indicators of Dubai Smart vision 2021, highlighting the importance of efficient performance in smart transformation and in achieving sustainability by applying the results of the indicators in policy making and future planning of SDO’s initiatives.
- The study underscores the growing importance of measuring public sentiment on public policy
- Focusing on the topic of tolerance in the nation by the public in and outside UAE
- Analyzing 1.4 million unique posts on social media
Dubai, UAE, Cape Town, South Africa – 11 June 2017
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) and BrandsEye, a world leading opinion mining company, announced today the completion of the first sentiment study conducted in the United Arab Emirates on the topic of tolerance in the UAE.
Working in coordination with the team of HE Sheikha Lubna bint Khaled Al Qassimi, Minister of State for Tolerance, the study focused primarily on the topic of tolerance and social media user’s opinion of the Minister’s announcements, activities and the news shared on the Minister’s official social media profiles.
During the research project, approximately 1.4 million unique posts shared by 172,000 social media users in the UAE were analyzed by opinion mining partner BrandsEye. BrandsEye uses a data analytics approach which combines search algorithms, crowd-sourcing and machine learning to accurately analyze conversations for sentiment and the topics driving that sentiment. The study was conducted over the period of three consecutive months earlier this year, and the findings were presented to Minister and her team during a recent visit to the FCSA headcounters.
The study findings highlighted that of all the posts analyzed, 20.5% expressed positive sentiment, 70% was neutral while only 4.5% of conversations were negative. Of the positive sentiment, 44% of the posts were expressed during the holidays in December were pictures of various religious communities in the UAE were shared practicing their faith in complete freedom. The remainder of the positive posts were praising the UAE policies and inclusion ,cohesion tolerance related activities and covering other topics such as low unemployment rates and attributing it to UAE providing an equal opportunity for everyone living on its land.
"The findings were very interesting and I am very delighted that people were mainly positive and/or neutral when it came to how they felt towards our announcements, programs and activities in and outside the UAE," commented HE Sheikh Lubna. "Policy and data are very interrelated in the decision making process. Knowing how people feel, adds a new layer of knowledge and insight that support drive more effective and impactful policies and initiatives for the people."
"Because of fake news, orchestrated and agenda-driven social engineering, many policy makers around the world are struggling to understand and collect accurate information and sentiment about their constituents. As decision makers, we have a grand responsibility to make sure we rely on accurate and effective scientific methods to have a better understanding of what really matters to the people," added HE Shaikha Lubna.
"We are very excited to be working with Her Excellency Sheikha Lubna’s office and the team in FCSA on this important project. The world of opinion mining is set to change the way governments and business conduct research, providing accurate data that will help drive better decision making at all levels," said JP Kloppers, BrandsEye CEO. "The sheer quantity of online conversations coupled with the instantaneous reactivity of this digital chatter has meant that sentiment-driven opinion data has become a mineable resource that gives one unique insight into how the public actually feel.
Kloppers added that fake news and what is known as ‘news feed bubbles’ are creating significant pockets of public opinion that are not based on truth, undermining the legitimacy (and demand for) their journalism. "Opinion mining offers a way for media to accurately measure and report on public opinion, regardless of its veracity," added Kloppers.
"Organizations around the world now have access to millions of relevant data points in both mature and developing markets. The data, if mined correctly, can provide insights that not only assist in decision-making, but also can shape product innovation and help reduce risk," said Abdulla Lootah, Director General of the FCSA.
"As a UAE federal government official reference on all matters related to statistics, competitiveness and data, it is part of FCSA’s mandate to explore, identify and adopt the latest global trends and technology to serve our stakeholders. Our collaboration with BrandsEye is just the beginning and to a new dimension on how we plan to transform the statistics and data business in the UAE. We look forward to more engagements on various topics across the UAE," concluded Mr. Lootah.
Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority and Mastercard Sign Memorandum of Understanding
Dubai-UAE, 30 May 2017
The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA) has signed a MoU with Mastercard, a leading technology company in the global payments industry. The MoU aims to provide both parties with a strategic platform for the exchange of expertise and knowledge, especially in the areas of data and statistics, including big and open data in the UAE.
The agreement was signed by H.E. Abdullah Naser Lootah, Director General of FCSA, and Mr. Khalid Elgibali, Division President, Middle East and North Africa at Mastercard. The two parties agreed to explore various strategic opportunities to develop a joint framework aimed at enhancing capacity in the fields of data and knowledge products and services related to diverse sectors, such as retail, tourism and trade in the UAE. Furthermore, the two parties will examine and analyze purchase patterns and spend behavior, together with the identification of opportunities for the public as well as the private sectors to provide locals and residents with better services and products in view of the increasing demand for such solutions and seasons of high purchasing volumes.
H.E. Abdullah Naser Lootah pointed out: "We are constantly working to further enhance the national statistical ecosystem with all our stakeholders locally and internationally. This lies at the heart of our strategy and endeavors to enhance the UAE’s international competitiveness. I believe there is a great opportunity for the private sector to play a major role in the development of the national statistical system. We are looking forward to Mastercard’s extensive experience and innovation in the area of big and smart data."
Khalid Elgibali shared: "Mastercard has always been keen to establish effective strategic relationships and partnerships with the government sector. We are pleased to sign this MoU with a leading government institution such as the FCSA, with whom we share a common vision and goals for the greater empowerment of societies through the power of big data and by leveraging technologies that will contribute towards positive transformation in the local economy."
As part of its mandate, FCSA aims to create a world-class national statistical system by adopting global standards and expertise, and deploy advanced and innovative technological solutions. "The involvement, cooperation and collaboration of the private sector is fundamental for the success of this collaboration. We look forward to the outcomes of this partnership with Mastercard," concluded H.E. Lootah.
Muscat (May 2017):
Source: NCSA ,Sultanate of Oman,
The National Center for Statistics and Information (NCSI) received on Sunday (May 21) a delegation from the Federal Authority for Competitiveness and Statistics in the United Arab Emirates. The delegation learned about the role played by the Center in enhancing statistical knowledge in the Sultanate, and the features of the national spatial data infrastructure (ONSDI).
The delegation reviewed the Sultanate’s experience in executing statistical projects, and the effective use of data to achieve sustainable development goals through the various programmes and strategies developed and executed by the National Center for Statistics and Information.
The delegation appreciated NCSI’s role as a provider of accurate and timely data to decision makers and stakeholders so as to support national development plans and formulate future vision plans for the Sultanate. They also learned about the services provided by the Centre to the different segments of society ranging from governmental institutions to individuals.
In an interaction, Mohammed Hassan Ahli, the Executive Director of Statistics and National Data at the Federal Authority for Competitiveness and Statistics, UAE, noted that one of the strategic objectives of the Authority is to coordinate with various statistical bodies and centers as well as international organizations interested in statistics to offer quality statistics to stakeholders. The authority is in constant contact with the statistical centers in the Gulf countries and outside in order to exchange meaningful experiences and develop competency, he said.
He commended the strategy adopted by the National Center for Statistics and Information that is focused on transforming data into information and knowledge, which is made easily available to decision makers and all sections of the society. He also highlighted the Center’s efforts to promote statistics through various periodic statistical publications and multiple media platforms such as traditional and digital media including social media as well as smartphone applications.
What distinguishes NCSI is its dissemination of crucial data in an analytical way using simplified tables and charts that are easy to understand and interpret, he said, adding the awareness videos and presentations produced by the Centre hold great value.
Statistical agencies and their projects are mandated to provide not just data but meaningful analyses that highlight the state of economy, investments and trends of the times through economic indicators, he said, and noted that NCSI has been successfully undertaking this responsibility.
He also appreciated NCSI’s smartphone applications for the banking and fuel customers, developed using spatial data.The Center’s excellent communication links with the community as well as its strong presence in almost all local events such as the Salalah Tourism Festival need to be recognized and emulated, he added.
The visiting delegation watched NCSI’s presentations on various topics and projects including the Center’s initiatives to build and manage an integrated national-level social and economic information system designed to enhance the quality of information, and the promotional methods used to market its various products, and enhance media presence.
The delegation got to know about the Center’s work in the fields of governmental and international communication and the e-links with data sources and dissemination of data through various media platforms, and appreciated the Centre’s Information Portal that acts as a reliable source of information for all segments of society including public and private sector institutions, researchers and other interested parties.
The program also reviewed NCSi’s methods of collecting and processing statistical data and indicators, as well as tools to deal with requests for statistical data from various quarters.
The delegation was also briefed about the Centre’s action plan in employing GIS technologies.
He thanked the National Center for Statistics and Information for hosting the delegation, which allowed the Federal Authority for Competitiveness and Statistics to review the Sultanate’s experience in the statistical work.
SDGs Talk with HE Maitha Al Shamsi, Minister of State
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