Abu dhabi: Mohammad Al Gergawi, UAE Minister of Cabinet Affairs, announced that the UAE has accomplished 67% of the objectives set under the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision. This achievement comes from recent reports and performance indicator reviews, with six years left to fulfill the vision’s full set of goals. He made this statement during the opening session of the UAE Government Annual Meetings held in Abu Dhabi.
According to Emirates News Agency, Al Gergawi emphasized that the UAE Government Annual Meetings are more than just an annual gathering. They serve as a national governmental exercise to evaluate performance, set priorities, and review the progress of the overarching vision, “We the UAE 2031,” which was initiated three years ago during the Government Annual Meetings. He highlighted that the achievements so far do not signify the end, but rather a call to address remaining gaps and maintain the UAE’s leading global position.
Al Gergawi pointed out that this year’s meetings focus on major questions, offering practical solutions through various sessions, national briefings, workshops, and exceptional meetings. Reflecting on last year’s global headlines, he noted the ongoing crises, economic slowdowns, and rapid technological advancements, emphasizing the recurring challenges the world faces today.
He credited the UAE’s ability to turn challenges into opportunities to the vision of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The President outlined a balanced approach between east and west, focusing on economic development, artificial intelligence, human capital investment, and fostering social awareness while promoting tolerance and coexistence in a fragmented world.
Al Gergawi cited His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid’s words: ‘We want the UAE to be number one.’ He explained that being first is not just a ranking but a leadership mindset and a team culture. This approach has propelled the UAE to lead in global competitiveness, with top rankings in numerous indicators.
He also highlighted the UAE’s strong economic performance, with the International Monetary Fund projecting a 4.8% economic growth rate, exceeding the global average. The UAE’s non-oil foreign trade reached nearly AED 3 trillion in 2024, with a significant growth rate in the first half of this year.
Al Gergawi referred to the UAE’s pledge made in 2015 to celebrate the export of its last oil barrel in 50 years, emphasizing the nation’s progress in boosting the non-oil sector’s contribution to GDP. Currently, this contribution has reached 77.5%, with a target of 80% by 2031.
He noted the UAE’s global rankings, including 10th in foreign direct investment, 5th in the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking, and its leadership in AI adoption in the workplace. These achievements underscore the UAE’s governance efficiency and dedication.
Al Gergawi concluded by affirming the UAE’s commitment to being the best country in the world, driven by its leadership, ambitious people, and a government working as one team. He emphasized the importance of preserving this teamwork spirit and the continuous pursuit of success.