Emirates

Mohammed bin Rashid approves Dubai Government’s general budget for 2022-2024 with AED181 billion expenditure

DUBAI, 2nd January, 2022 (WAM) — In his capacity as Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, has approved the Government of Dubai's general budget for the fiscal cycle of 2022-2024, with a total expenditure of AED181 billion.

His Highness has also approved Law No. (28) for the General Budget for the fiscal Year 2022, with AED59.95 billion expenditure.

The budget cycle will support Dubai’s efforts to stimulate the macroeconomy and the objectives of the Dubai Strategic Plan 2030. The new general budget reflects the emirate’s determination to accelerate post-pandemic economic recovery and achieve the leadership’s broader goals to stimulate entrepreneurship, enhance society’s happiness and consolidate Dubai’s position as a land of opportunities and innovation.

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, said, "The Dubai government continues to consolidate the emirate's position as a leading global commercial hub and raise its international competitiveness by creating new growth opportunities for vital sectors in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to enhance sustainable development and government performance. Dubai’s general budget for the fiscal cycle of 2022-2024, which reflects the fundamental strengths and stable base of the emirate’s economy, supports the realisation of its future economic aspirations, in addition to placing the emirate at the forefront of worldwide efforts to promote recovery."

The three-year budget cycle focuses on increasing economic growth rates by activating the public-private partnership ecosystem and supporting the private sector to drive economic growth. It also addresses the social aspects of healthcare and education, as well as digital infrastructure development and financial sustainability programmes.

Through its 2022 budget, Dubai continues to place a high emphasis on developing social services, and its healthcare, education and cultural sectors. The budget also pays attention to citizens’ housing sector by raising the value of the housing loan to AED1 million and allocating more than 4,000 plots and houses with a total value of AED5.2 billion in the first phase of the housing programme for citizens in Dubai within a broader 20-year programme of AED65 billion.

The budget also focuses on developing the Social Benefits Fund by supporting families and people of determination, which is set to consolidate Dubai's position as one of the best cities in the world to live and work in.

Abdulrahman Saleh Al Saleh, Director-General of the Department of Finance of the Government of Dubai (DoF), affirmed the government’s commitment to continue its development efforts through the general budget cycle for the fiscal years 2022-2024, further raising financial sustainability and stimulating the growth of entrepreneurship in Dubai.

"Dubai government is eager to develop its financial plan annually to provide economic incentives that will have an impact on attracting more investments, improve the emirate's competitive position and achieve the goals of the Dubai Strategic Plan 2030. The 2022 budget strengthens recovery efforts and acts as a starting point within an integrated scheme of the 2030 plan. It also seeks to achieve the vision of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who has issued directives to increase government support for families and people of determination, develop government work and increase institutional agility," said Al Saleh.

He also affirmed the Dubai government’s commitment to the directives of H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, in terms of adopting disciplined financial policies, leading to an operating surplus of AED1.8 billion, which represents three percent of the expected total revenue. This will contribute to the development of the emirate's infrastructure programmes and consolidate the emirate's financial sustainability policy.

Arif Abdulrahman Ahli, Executive Director of Planning & Budget Sector at DoF, said, "The Dubai government’s medium-term financial planning methodology and the announcement of a three-year financial plan exemplifies the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and the directives of H.H. the Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, and H.H. the Deputy Ruler of Dubai."

"The 2022 budget responds to the requirements of the Dubai Strategic Plan 2030 and is a transparent expression of the emirate's stable financial position. It also reflects disciplined financial policies based on international best practices. Achieving an operating surplus of 3 percent of total government revenues is an indication of the financial sustainability that the department is keen to ensure," Ahli explained.

Projected government revenues for 2022

The 2022 budget expects to achieve revenues estimated at AED57.55 billion, an increase of 10 percent over the expected revenues of the previous budget of the fiscal year 2021, as a result of the rapid recovery of Dubai and the effective measures taken to curb the pandemic. Dubai is one of the first cities in the world to achieve a rapid recovery due to the economic stimulus measures approved by the government that reduced some government fees for businesses and put a freeze on fee increases until 2023.

These revenues are based on ongoing operations in the emirate and do not rely on oil revenues. Oil revenues account for six percent of the total projected revenues for the fiscal year 2022, which creates the conditions for enhanced financial sustainability.

Non-tax revenues, which come from fees, account for 57 percent of the total expected revenues, while tax revenues account for 31 percent, and government investment revenues represent six percent of the total expected revenues.

Jamal Hamid Al Marri, Executive Director, Central Accounts Sector at DoF pointed to the Department’s efforts to consolidate development and innovation through the development of financial programmes and financial data platforms. "These tools make a clear contribution to making financial statements available to the government, companies and individuals, which will help further raise Dubai's competitiveness. DOF is constantly creating programmes to develop the public finance landscape and achieve financial excellence, in addition to implementing International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS), which will have the greatest impact in showing the fruits of budget implementation and developing new ways to enhance government performance."

Projected government expenditure for 2022

Salary and wage allowances of the 2022 budget account for 34 percent of total government spending, in accordance with the requirements of the new human resources law. Grant and social support expenditure accounts for 21 percent of all expenditure, to meet the requirements of human and community development and provide public services to the residents of the emirate.

The government has allocated an amount of AED5.2 billion for construction projects, despite the completion of Expo-related projects, the activation of the Public-Private Partnership Law and the development of project financing mechanisms in the Dubai government through long-term financing.

The government has also allocated nine percent of the total expenditure to maintain the volume of investments in infrastructure, in line with Dubai's aspirations to be the world’s most preferred destination to live in.

Two percent of the total expenditure is allocated to the private reserve to support emergency preparedness programmes, while public debt accounts for six percent of the total expenditure, to follow a disciplined fiscal policy that ensures the budget fulfills all obligations.

Sectoral distribution of government expenditure

The budget of the fiscal year 2022 reflects the government's commitment to the people. Government spending on the social development sector in areas of health, education, housing and women and children's care, as well as developing reading and coding initiatives and supporting athletes and people of determination, represents 30 percent of the total expenditure.

The government's concern for security, justice and safety sees 23 percent of the total expenditure being allocated to promote enhanced efficiency in the sector.

Dubai's keenness to develop its infrastructure and transportation, apart from hosting Expo 2020 Dubai, has led to an allocation of 42 percent of total spending to the sector. This reflects its pledge to deal with future commitments, support entrepreneurship and create an environment conducive for incubating micro ventures.

The emirate has also been keen to support the sectors of government excellence, creativity, innovation and scientific research by allocating five percent of the total government expenditure to develop performance and instill a culture of excellence.

Emirates

Hamriyah and Deira ports record AED 12.133b in customs declaration value for first nine months of 2023

Dubai Customs plays a crucial role as the frontline defense for community security, consistently advancing its customs centers to safeguard and facilitate maritime trade. H.E. Ahmed Mahboob Musabih, Director General of Dubai Customs, CEO of
Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, recently visited Creek Customs Center, Deira Port, and Hamriyah Port Customs Center to evaluate progress and oversee ongoing efforts for continuous customs service development. During this visit, several executive directors, department heads, and customs center managers were present.

Ahmed Mahboob Musabih, accompanied by Rashid Al Dhabah Al Suwaidi, Acting Director of Seae Customs Centers Management, conducted inspections at Khor Customs Center, Deira Port, and Hamriyah Port Customs Center. Managers Abdulaziz Ibrahim Al Salman and Majid Salem Al Tawilah provided insights into workflow progress and accomplishments. Over the first nine months of this year, 62,454 customs declarations were processed, totaling AED 12.133 billion, with 19 seizures recorded during the same period. A visit to Hamriyah Port Customs Center showcased an advanced container X-ray inspection device, supporting increased inspection operations.

Subsequently, visits to Khor Customs Center and Deira Port highlighted achievements, including a notable seizure called the “Wheelhouse,” which successfully prevented an attempt to smuggle 243 kilograms of narcotics into the country. Commending customs employees, Ahmed Mahboob Musabih emphasized the pivotal role of maritime customs centers in ensuring community security and facilitating trade. The department collaborates for efficient goods clearance and acknowledges employee efforts
during the COVID-19 pandemic, contributing to the department’s support for global efforts to revive maritime navigation and international trade.

Musabih clarified that the department’s advanced capabilities in monitoring and inspection enable it to keep pace with the UAE’s rapid foreign trade growth. Supporting Dubai’s economic agenda D33, the department aims to double foreign trade and enhance economic partnerships with key global markets. Efforts to boost customs inspector efficiency continue through training courses, ensuring their ability to thwart smuggling attempts. Continuous development of X-ray scanning
devices and the K9 customs dog unit further enhances contraband control achievements. Rasheed Al-Dabah explained that the forthcoming period will witness the advancement of new initiatives and mechanisms in the realm of inspection and examination. These initiatives are grounded in a forward-looking perspective to introduce cutting-edge technologies utilized in examining maritime transport vessels, wooden ships, and ships engaged in fish trade.

He remarked, “Our endeavors are harmonized to enhance performance in sea customs centers, concurrently focusing on bolstering monitoring, tracking, and technical support activities to yield optimal outcomes through continuous and productive collaboration among all specialized teams within the department. The Customs centers in Deira, Al Khor, and
Hamriyah Port Customs Center shoulder their vital responsibilities in safeguarding society and facilitating maritime trade through Dubai Creek and Hamriyah Port, supporting the ongoing growth of the national economy.”

Emirates

Dubai Customs Hosts Sharjah Housing Delegation to Strengthen Government Communication Ties

Dubai Customs, represented by the Corporate Communication Department, warmly welcomed a delegation from the Sharjah Housing Department. The purpose of the visit was to familiarize the delegation with the duties and responsibilities of the
Corporate Communication Department and its affiliated divisions. The delegation also aimed to explore the awards received by the department, notably the recognition as the Best Government Communication Team in the Sharjah Government Communication Award for 2023.

Khalil Saqer bin Gharib, Director of Corporate Communication Department, along with department managers, extended a cordial reception to the Sharjah Housing delegation, which included Dr. Ahmed Rashid Al Nuaimi, Director of Government Communication, Nada Sivan, Head of the Public Relations and Events Department, and Hamad Saleh Al Hamadi, Head of
the New Media Department. Bin Gharib highlighted the department’s commitment to strengthening communication with government entities to exchange practical experiences and knowledge. The delegation was briefed on Dubai Customs exceptional performance in customs operations and other facets.

The meeting delved into discussions on potential avenues for collaboration, with the Sharjah Housing delegation. Emphasis was placed on the crucial role played by Dubai Customs’ Corporate Communication Department, customs administrations, and centers in ensuring security and safeguarding society. The delegation was presented with an overview of the department’s working mechanisms, awareness campaigns, events, and activities conducted internally and externally, aligning with Dubai Customs esteemed reputation.

Furthermore, the Sharjah Housing delegation acquired an understanding of the best media practices adopted by the Corporate Communication Department, showcasing its outstanding performance in enhancing knowledge and media dissemination to all partners. This has resulted in the department establishing and fortifying relationships with local and international media
entities. The presentation also encompassed the factors contributing to the department’s receipt of the award for the Best Government Communication Team in the Sharjah Government Communication Award.

Dr. Ahmed Rashid Al Nuaimi, Director of Government Communication at Sharjah Housing, expressed appreciation for the efforts of Dubai Customs Corporate Communication Department, acknowledging its excellence and significant contribution to enhancing the department’s standing. Dr. Al Nuaimi affirmed Sharjah Housing’s commitment to fostering ongoing visits and meetings with Dubai Customs, aiming to achieve the highest level of coordination and benefit from the Corporate Communication Departmen’s experience in securing numerous local and international awards.

Emirates

Zayed Sustainability Prize opens submissions for 2025 cycle

The Zayed Sustainability Prize, the UAE’s pioneering global sustainability and humanitarian award, has officially announced that the 2025 cycle is now open for submissions. Submissions will be accepted until 23 June 2024 through the Prize’s online portal. Small to medium enterprises (SMEs), nonprofit organisations (NPOs) and high schools with sustainable solutions are invited to submit an entry for consideration in one of the six categories of Heath, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action and Global High Schools. Commenting on the launch of the 2025 submissions cycle, H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, Director General of the Zayed Sustainability Prize, and COP28 President, said: “Since 2008, the
Zayed Sustainability Prize has honoured the legacy of Sheikh Zayed by fostering inclusive sustainable and humanitarian development around the world. In this decisive decade for climate change, these values are more important than ever. I am optimistic that the Prize will contribute to global climate action in line with the UAE Consensus, which will pave the
way toward an effective response to the Global Stocktake decision.” In response to the pressing climate crisis, and to further support the UAE’s efforts to accelerate practical solutions needed to drive climate action and uplift vulnerable communities around the world, the Prize has increased its funds from US $3.6 million to US $5.9 million. The Prize will reward US $1 million to each winner in the organisational categories of Health, Food, Energy, Water and Climate Action. Within the Global High Schools category, which is split into six world regions, each school can claim up to US $150,000 to start or further expand their project. The six world regions of the Global High Schools category are The Americas, Europe and Central Asia, Middle East and North Africa, Sub- Saharan Africa, South Asia, and East Asia and Pacific. The most recent Zayed Sustainability Prize winners were recognised at an Awards Ceremony held during COP28 UAE. To encourage a broader range of organisations and high schools to participate, the Prize will be accepting submissions in multiple languages, including Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish, and Portuguese. This will ensure that innovative solutions from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds can be recognised. For the Health, Food, Energy, Water and Climate Action categories, organisations should prove that they are improving access to essential products or services in their targeted communities and are able to implement a long-term vision for better living and working conditions. For the Global High Schools category, projects should be led by students, and must demonstrate innovative approaches to address sustainability challenges. The evaluation of each submission to the Prize consists of a rigorous, three-stage process. First, due diligence is conducted on all submissions to ensure that they meet the Prize’s evaluation criteria of Impact, Innovation, and Inspiration. This identifies the qualified entries and results in the selection of eligible candidates. Following this, evaluations are undertaken by a Selection Committee consisting of category-specific panels of independent international experts. From this shortlist of candidates, the finalists are chosen and then sent to the Prize Jury who unanimously elect the winners across all six categories. Winners of the Zayed Sustainability Prize will be announced at an Awards Ceremony during the 2025 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW).