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UAE cabinet reviews government performance and rankings in 2021

DUBAI, 13th December 2021 (WAM) — Chairing the last cabinet meeting scheduled for 2021, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, affirmed that the UAE has accomplished, in a short period of time, major achievements, assumed leading global ranks in various sectors, confirming that the UAE is moving into the next 50 years with confidence and enthusiasm to be among the best countries and governments in all global indicators.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said, "Today, I chaired the last cabinet meeting for 2021. We looked at what we did over the year. It was remarkable; the biggest legislative reforms in UAE history, updating 50 laws. UAE passport is the most powerful, UAE is the safest and UAE government is the most trusted by its citizens in the world."

The meeting, held at EXPO 2020 Dubai, was attended by H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and 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; and H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs.

The Cabinet reviewed a detailed report prepared by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre highlighting the UAE Government performance in 2021. The report listed the laws and regulations, which enriched the legislative environment and enhanced the UAE performance in global competitiveness reports, making the country the first globally in 152 indicators, among the top 5 in 274 indicators, and among the top 10 countries in 425 global indicators.

Commenting on the report, His Highness said, "In 2021, our teams worked to enhance UAE global competitiveness, making our country the first globally in 152 indicators. UAE economy is the most attractive regionally to foreign investments and the first globally in attracting talents. UAE performance in 2021 was exceptional."

His Highness also said, "UAE has received the highest sovereign rating in the region and ranked first regionally in rule of law and transparency. Our science and math education is the best regionally. Also, UAE ranked second globally on government adaptability and has been the most resilient to the pandemic."

"2021 has passed quickly and beautifully, but it was full of work, achievements, and overcoming challenges. I am optimistic 2022 will bring more success, driven by the energy and determination of our young men and women. And with confidence and enthusiasm, our nation enters its new 50th," His Highness said.

The Cabinet approved the establishment of the UAE Industry Development Council with the aim of supervising the implementation of the initiatives and projects of the UAE Industry Strategy.

The Council is mandated with supporting industrial development capacity and promoting entrepreneurship. The Council shall propose appropriate initiatives that enhance cooperation and exchange experiences and expertise between the various government entities concerned with the industrial sector and advanced technology, in addition to consolidating cooperation between the public and private sectors.

The Industry Development Council is also responsible for coordinating with federal and local government entities with the aim of developing policies and legislations necessary for the growth of the industrial sector, adopting unified performance indicators and publishing periodic reports to evaluate industrial performance.

Based on the Cabinet decision, the Industrial Development Council is formed for a period of three years, subject to renewal, headed by the Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, and the membership of: The Minister of State for Foreign Trade in the Ministry of Economy, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, and the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure.

Members also include: the Director General of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center, the Director General of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security, the Secretary General of the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, the Undersecretary of the Department of Economic Development in Abu Dhabi, the Director General of the Department of Economic Development in Dubai, the Director General of the Department of Economic Development in Sharjah, the Director General of the Department of Economic Development in Ajman, the Director General of the Department of Economic Development in Ras Al Khaimah, the Director General of the Department of Economic Development in Umm Al Quwain, the Director General of the Department of Industry and Economy in Fujairah, the Assistant Undersecretary for Support and Defense Industries at the Ministry of Defense, the Assistant Undersecretary for the Policy and Strategy Sector at the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and CEO of the Emirates Development Bank.

The Cabinet approved the budget of the General Pension and Social Security Authority for the fiscal year 2022.

The Cabinet approved the federal law regarding the regulation of worship places for non-Muslims, with the aim of consolidating the values ​​of tolerance and coexistence in the UAE society. The law includes the conditions and controls for licensing.

The Cabinet approved the organizational structure of the Federal Center for Geographic Information.

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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.”

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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.

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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).

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