Dubai’s leadership continues to set a global benchmark for future readiness and innovation. Today, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, approved a series of groundbreaking initiatives to enhance the emirate’s innovation ecosystem and strengthen its resilience against future challenges.
The decisions were made during a meeting of The Executive Council of Dubai, chaired by His Highness at Emirates Towers. Also present were His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE; and His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai.
Coinciding with the UAE’s 53rd National Day celebrations, Sheikh Hamdan reflected on the legacy of the nation’s founding leaders, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, whose vision continues to guide the UAE under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE; His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai; and the Rulers of the Emirates.
“On the occasion of Eid Al Etihad, we celebrate the unity of our people and the wisdom of our leaders that have shaped the UAE into a nation of unparalleled achievements,” Sheikh Hamdan said.
He commended the public’s enthusiastic participation in the ‘Zayed and Rashid’ campaign, launched by Brand Dubai, as a tribute to the UAE’s founding visionaries.
Key Initiatives Approved
1. Dubai Research, Development, and Innovation Programme
Aimed at bolstering Dubai’s position as a global hub for knowledge and innovation, this programme has been allocated a budget of AED750 million over three years. By 2033, it is expected to contribute AED20 billion annually to Dubai’s GDP, create 120,000 jobs, and support the establishment of 600 startups.
The programme, overseen by the Dubai Future Foundation, focuses on partnerships with international universities and research centres, boosting private sector R&D investments, and raising the innovation sector’s GDP contribution to 2.5%. A key milestone includes launching the Institute for Future Research to strengthen global collaboration.
2. Dubai Resilience Strategy
Designed to prepare Dubai for emerging challenges, this strategy prioritises community well-being, economic strength, infrastructure resilience, and governance. Initiatives include digital resilience policies, adaptive legislative frameworks, and tools for future risk assessment.
“Resilience is a vital strength in today’s rapidly changing world. Dubai’s effective response to the COVID-19 crisis reflects our capabilities,” said Sheikh Hamdan.
3. Dubai Food Security Strategy
Focusing on sustainability and self-sufficiency, this strategy features 20 projects valued at AED164 million. Objectives include reducing annual food waste and loss by 2%, increasing high-tech agricultural projects by 15%, and boosting public awareness of food security to 90%.
Led by Dubai Municipality and implemented by the Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority, the strategy will also introduce a digital food security platform and enhance support for local producers and startups.
4. Criminal Judgments Implementation System
This initiative aims to expedite judicial processes, strengthen trust in Dubai’s judicial system, and modernise legislation for greater adaptability. Key features include digital platforms for implementing fines, community service as an alternative penalty, and incentivised early compliance.
“Dubai is a city founded on fairness, efficiency, and transparency. This initiative strengthens our public services and enhances quality of life across the community,” Sheikh Hamdan said.
Driving Dubai’s Global Leadership
These new initiatives reflect Dubai’s ongoing efforts to maintain its global leadership in innovation, resilience, and sustainability. As Sheikh Hamdan noted, the emirate’s vision is aligned with establishing Dubai as a destination for top talent and a model for preparedness, responsiveness, and excellence.
The meeting’s outcomes demonstrate Dubai’s unwavering commitment to shaping a future-ready economy and society that thrives on innovation and resilience.
