Abu Dhabi: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, chaired a Cabinet meeting at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, where pivotal national developments and strategic projects were deliberated. The meeting underscored the UAE's remarkable performance in global rankings and its ongoing commitment to enhancing domestic and international initiatives.
According to Emirates News Agency, the UAE secured the 5th spot globally in the 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking, a significant leap from its 28th position in 2009. The country's leadership in economic competitiveness, government efficiency, and business environment was highlighted. The UAE also achieved top positions in specific indices, such as the absence of bureaucracy and adaptability of government policies.
The Cabinet approved housing grants for over 1,838 citizens, amounting to AED1.2 billion, to bolster family stability. It also reviewed the Emirates Council for Balanced Development's accomplishments, stressing its role in transforming Emirati villages into economic and tourist hubs.
A significant focus was placed on the Digital Identity system, which now supports over 11 million users, facilitating 2.6 billion digital transactions. The Cabinet also restructured the committee overseeing the national anti-money laundering strategy and approved the establishment of the National Maritime Navigation Center to enhance maritime safety.
The UAE's free trade negotiations have resulted in 27 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements, with eight already active. These agreements have driven the UAE's foreign trade volume to AED5.23 trillion in 2024, with non-oil exports reaching AED440 billion.
Furthermore, the Cabinet reviewed the Emirates Council for Balanced Development's progress in various projects across the UAE, and the achievements of the 'Make it in the Emirates' platform, which attracted AED168 billion in procurement agreements.
The meeting also addressed the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, cultural heritage preservation, and the restructuring of the UAE Council for Climate Action. The UAE's participation in international agreements and events was endorsed, alongside the establishment of new embassies and consulate offices.
In conclusion, the Cabinet ratified 13 international agreements, including partnerships with Montenegro, Vietnam, and Uganda, and approved negotiations for 36 additional international agreements. These strategic moves aim to fortify the UAE's global presence and economic partnerships.