New government structure paves way for future-ready UAE: Ministers, officials

UAE ministers and officials have praised the new government structure, saying it will put the country on the fast track towards the future.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced the changes through Twitter on Sunday noon. Several ministries and federal departments have been merged and new ones have been created. He said the Cabinet reshuffle would help the country accelerate its decision-making process and seize future opportunities.

Hussain Al Hammadi, Minister of Education, said the new government formation is characterised by flexibility and a promising vision for sustainability and development in the UAE.

For Al Hammadi, the leadership's confidence in renewing his mandate as minister of education is "a medal of pride and a great honour". He vowed to continue working diligently to advance the education sector, which is among the country's top priorities.

"The achievements and great results are from the spirit of teamwork, coupled with the sincere efforts of all workers in the educational field. We have to continue with the steps towards promoting sustainable education in the country," Al Hammadi said.

Jameela Al Muhairi, Minister of State for Public Education, said the decision reflects how the country adapts to changes, turning them into "real, positive opportunities" on the ground.

"The new government structure is the fruit of the vision for the rational leadership in supporting government actions, and its ability to respond to changes through flexible mechanisms and practices to achieve the intended goals. I am happy to be in this distinguished ministerial team, so that all of us can contribute together and jointly lead the UAE regionally and globally," Al Muhairi said.

'A new beginning'

The Dubai Police saw the move as a "new beginning" that will fuel development in different sectors of the country.

Lt-Gen Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of the Dubai Police, said he is confident that the new government structure will achieve the UAE's vision for the future as it overcomes challenges along the way. Among the industries that will shape the future are artificial intelligence, advanced sciences, energy, space science, cybersecurity and education, he added.

The government is always working on improving itself so it can deal with every change in any circumstance, said Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa).

Its response to the coronavirus pandemic is a testament to its ability to overcome crises and emergencies, he added. "The wise leadership will always ensure a better future for the people of UAE."

Ammar Al Malik, managing director of Dubai Internet City and Dubai Outsource City, stressed that the circumstances arising from the pandemic have highlighted the importance of future-driven technologies in society.

"And today's important decision reflects the UAE's commendable focus to build a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy focused on the future," Al Malik said.

Saud Abu Al Shawareb, managing director of Dubai Industrial City, added: "The important changes carried out by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum will lead to increased agility within the UAE Government and contribute significantly to the continued development of our innovation-driven economy. Greater readiness and preparedness is vital to continue our nation's ongoing journey."

Marwan Janahi Abdulaziz, managing director of Dubai Science Park, commended the creation of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology.

"Dr Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, brings with him decades of experience in various economic sectors that fall within the newly formed ministry's mandate. As markets get moving again, we look forward to cooperating with the ministry to enhance science and healthcare in the UAE, which remains at the heart of our nation's economic resilience," Abdulaziz said.

Positive impact on media sector

Some of the changes introduced will have a "positive impact" on the country's media landscape, said Majed Al Suwaidi, managing director of Dubai Media City, Dubai Studio City and Dubai Production City.

"The government's decisions will play an important role in the continued development of Dubai's diverse media landscape. And as we look forward to the post-Covid era, this vision will create a competitive industry that provides opportunities for the next generation of talent."