Post by : Maya Rahman

A comprehensive report from the GCC Statistical Centre (GCC-STAT) illustrates the UAE's extraordinary advancements in social and economic domains, coinciding with the nation’s 54th Eid Al Etihad celebration. The findings reveal that the UAE clinches the top spot in the Gulf and ranks seventh worldwide for social cohesion, demonstrating a robust and unified community structure. Economically, the UAE is committed to ongoing diversification of income, nurturing a knowledge-based economy, and advancing future-centric industries.

Strategic initiatives have been rolled out to ensure sustained growth, including the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031, which leverages technology as a vital development engine. The UAE has laid out long-term plans for food and water security aimed at 2036 and 2051. Smart city innovations are taking shape in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Fujairah, with visions extending to 2040. The UAE continues to broaden its emphasis on technology, space, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing sectors.

The UAE has notably enhanced its competitiveness, earning the fifth global rank in overall competitiveness for 2025. The country leads in 223 metrics and ranks among the top five in 444 criteria. Furthermore, it has secured the tenth position globally in soft power and maintained first place in entrepreneurship for four years running. Its robust sovereign wealth funds function not only as financial managers, but also boost economic stability and long-term prosperity.

Transitioning from a smart government to an AI-driven society, the UAE ranks first globally in telecom infrastructure and is second worldwide in AI readiness for 2025. It successfully executed its first government transaction utilizing the “Digital Dirham,” a regional milestone, and digitized over 90% of public services. UAE citizens boast top global rankings in digital and tech proficiency, showcasing the nation's strong technological competencies.

With investments surpassing AED600 billion earmarked for renewable energy through 2050, the UAE is also implementing a national green hydrogen strategy that aims to yield 15 million tonnes by that year. The nation stands sixth globally for talent enhancing the green transition, positioning it as a frontrunner in energy transformation and environmental stewardship.

The UAE has emerged as a formidable player in regional and global space initiatives. Its Hope Probe successfully traveled to Mars, marking the first time the Arab world has reached the Red Planet. The UAE is preparing an exploration mission to the asteroid belt for 2028, along with the Mars 2117 settlement project—one of the most ambitious long-term endeavors worldwide. These achievements underscore the UAE’s determination and leadership in science and exploration.

The UAE is rapidly advancing in social, economic, technological, and scientific spheres. Its accomplishments in AI, digital services, renewable energy, and space exploration reaffirm the country’s unwavering commitment to long-term progress, innovation, and global influence.

#Business News #UAE News #GCC News #Gulf News