The United Arab Emirates has taken a significant step in modernizing its workforce by approving a remote work system for federal government employees stationed outside the country. This progressive initiative was announced during a Cabinet meeting led by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai. The policy aims to attract global expertise to contribute to government initiatives, specialized projects, and research endeavors.
In a bid to bolster its economic landscape, the UAE government also introduced an extensive six-year national investment strategy. The initiative is designed to more than double annual foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows, targeting an increase from Dh112 billion in 2023 to Dh240 billion by 2031. Additionally, the strategy aspires to elevate the total stock of foreign investments from Dh800 billion to Dh2.2 trillion, cementing the UAE’s reputation as a global business hub.
“Our focus remains on key sectors such as industry, logistics, financial services, renewable energy, and information technology,” Sheikh Mohammed emphasized, underscoring the nation’s commitment to fostering innovation and attracting capital.
Strengthening international partnerships, the UAE has made remarkable strides in trade relations with Africa. According to reports, 95 percent of strategic initiatives with African nations have been implemented, resulting in an 87 percent surge in trade volume with Sub-Saharan Africa—from Dh126.7 billion in 2019 to Dh235 billion in 2024.
The Cabinet also reviewed progress on the national digital economy strategy, which aims to nearly double the sector’s contribution to GDP from 9.7 percent to 19.4 percent over the next six years. A series of reforms and national projects are set to position the UAE as a dominant force in the global digital economy.
On the healthcare front, a new national policy was adopted to enhance preparedness against health risks. This framework outlines preventive measures, emergency response strategies, and recovery plans to safeguard public health during crises. Additionally, the Cabinet ratified executive regulations on human organ and tissue transplantation, ensuring expanded access to life-saving procedures. The UAE now boasts over 13 licensed transplant centers, with a notable 30 percent increase in surgeries for kidneys, liver, heart, lungs, pancreas, and other organs.
Further reinforcing its commitment to innovation, the UAE government restructured the Emirates Research and Development Council under the leadership of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed. This move seeks to align national priorities and foster deeper collaboration between the government, private sector, and academic institutions.
Social welfare also received a major boost, with a 29 percent increase in the annual budget for support programs, now reaching Dh3.5 billion. The number of beneficiaries has risen by 37 percent, with 3,200 individuals successfully transitioning into the workforce. This marks a strategic shift from reliance on aid to active economic participation.
Additionally, the UAE ratified 28 international agreements, including economic partnerships with Malaysia, New Zealand, and Kenya. These agreements span security, logistics, and governmental cooperation, reinforcing the nation’s global diplomatic and economic ties.
“Our country’s trajectory is one of continuous growth and prosperity,” Sheikh Mohammed stated. “Every initiative we take is a step toward a brighter, stronger, and more resilient future.