Latest news with #WetheUAE2031
Time Business News
2 hours ago
- Business
- Time Business News
Beyond Cost: A 5-Step Framework for Risk-Proofing Your Custom Software Project in Dubai
In Dubai's fiercely competitive digital economy, custom software is a strategic imperative — not merely a line item in the IT budget. With enterprise software spend projected to nearly double from USD 3.7 billion in 2024 to USD 7.5 billion by 2030 (13.3% CAGR)1, executives must guard against project overruns, compliance failures, and vendor misalignment. This 5-step framework, grounded in Dubai's Vision 2031 digital mandate and the UAE's PDPL, equips C-suite and IT leaders to de-risk every phase of their custom software journey. 1. Align with Vision 2031 and Digital-By-Design Principles Dubai's 'We the UAE 2031' agenda emphasizes smart government services, AI, and data-driven innovation. Define strategic objectives: Map your software KPIs to national goals—eGovernment transactions, 100% digital service adoption, or AI-enabled citizen insights. Embed 'digital-by-design': Architect modular, API-first solutions that support emerging AI, IoT, and blockchain pilots under Dubai's June 2022 digital mandate. 2. Establish a PDPL-Compliant Data Foundation The UAE's Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL) enforces privacy-by-design for all personal data processing. Perform Data Mapping and DPIAs: Catalog data flows across modules; conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments for high-risk features. Implement Core Controls: End-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, role-based access, and breach-response workflows with 72-hour notification. Embed Consent & Rights Management: Build UX flows to capture explicit consent and fulfill 'access, correction, erasure' requests within 30 days. 3. Vet Vendors with a 7-Point RFP Scorecard Selecting the right custom software development company in Dubai is pivotal. Use this weighted criteria: Domain Expertise (fintech, healthcare, logistics) Technical Stack Proficiency ( Flutter, AI/ML) Regulatory Track Record (ISO 27001, PDPL/SAMA audits) Proven Case Studies (quantified ROI, time-to-market gains) Cultural Fit (Arizona overlap hours, Arabic/English fluency) Transparent TCO & SLAs (99.9% uptime, 15-min critical-ticket response) Scalability & Exit SLAs (IP escrow, knowledge-transfer guarantees) 4. Pilot with Phased Risk Controls Avoid 'big-bang' rollouts. Implement an iterative pilot for one high-value module: Phase 1 (Weeks 1–4): Sandbox MVP with end-user testing and security scans. Phase 2 (Weeks 5–12): Expand to 2–3 business units; monitor performance metrics (latency, error rates) and compliance logs. Phase 3 (Months 4–6): Full UAT and stakeholder sign-off, ensuring each sprint delivers measurable business value. 5. Institutionalize Continuous Governance Sustain momentum through robust governance: Quarterly Audits: Reassess technical debt, vulnerability scans, and consent-management effectiveness. KPI Dashboard: Track Burn-Down Rate, Mean Time to Repair (MTTR), and PDPL-compliance incidents. Executive Steering Committee: A cross-functional board reviews vendor performance, budget variances, and roadmap realignment. By weaving Dubai's digital-transformation vision and the UAE PDPL into your project planning, and by rigorously vetting partners, piloting in controlled phases, and governing continuously, you can transform custom software from a cost center into a competitive advantage. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Mid East Info
a day ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
Ajman University Launches Masar Career Excellence A First-of-Its-Kind Model in UAE Higher Education - Middle East Business News and Information
Ajman University has launched Masar Career Excellence, a pioneering model that redefines how universities in the UAE prepare students for the future of work. As the first framework of its kind in the country's higher education sector, Masar goes beyond the scope of a traditional career services office. It offers an integrated, future-focused approach to student development, aligning academic experience with real-world readiness from day one through life after graduation. Rooted in the Arabic word مسار ( masar) , meaning the path , Masar Career Excellence is designed to accompany students and alumni through every stage of their academic and professional development. From early career orientation and skills training to long-term mentoring, employer engagement, and alumni networking, Masar offers a cohesive and holistic experience that empowers students to align their aspirations with real-world opportunities. Commenting on this innovative initiative, Dr. Karim Seghir, Chancellor of Ajman University, stated: ' Masar embodies Ajman University's belief that preparing students for the future requires more than academic excellence. It calls for an environment where purpose, reflection, and real-world engagement are embedded into the educational experience. Through this model, we aim to graduate individuals who are not only capable professionals, but also thoughtful leaders with a deep sense of responsibility to society.' The introduction of Masar marks a major milestone in Ajman University's broader strategy to embed career development into the heart of the educational experience. This commitment has earned the university global recognition. According to the QS World University Rankings 2026, Ajman University is ranked #3 in the UAE for employer reputation, a reflection of the institution's sustained focus on producing career-ready graduates. Masar is aligned with We the UAE 2031 and Ajman Vision 2030, both of which emphasize the development of national talent, the advancement of a knowledge-based economy, and the empowerment of youth to lead transformative change across sectors. By strengthening the capabilities of graduates to adapt, innovate, and lead, Masar contributes to the nation's priorities for inclusive and sustainable development. Throughout the student lifecycle, Masar delivers tailored guidance from early exploration of interests and pathways, to mid-program industry placements, and career coaching as graduation nears. The model continues beyond graduation, offering alumni access to mentoring, professional growth opportunities, and lifelong engagement. A defining characteristic of Masar is its emphasis on meaningful connection. By fostering collaboration between students, faculty, alumni, and industry leaders, the framework offers real-world immersion through career fairs, live projects, consulting challenges, and expert panels. These experiences cultivate not only technical competencies but the relationship capital essential for leadership and long-term success. The launch of Masar Career Excellence reinforces Ajman University's position as a forward-thinking institution that places student success at the core of its mission. It reflects a strategic approach to higher education—one that empowers graduates to shape their futures with purpose and contribute meaningfully to a resilient, inclusive, and knowledge-driven society. About Ajman University: Established in 1988 as the first private university in the GCC, Ajman University AU is a non-profit institution committed to delivering world-class education and empowering future leaders. With a strong emphasis on academic excellence, global engagement, and societal impact, AU continues to shape a diverse and inclusive learning environment that nurtures innovation and integrity. Ajman University earned full accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission WSCUC in 2024, becoming the first private and non-profit university in the UAE and the Arab world to achieve this prestigious distinction. In the 2026 QS World University Rankings, AU ranks #440 globally and #6 in the UAE, with a global ranking of #241 for Employer Reputation and #3 in the UAE. AU also holds the #1 position in the UAE and #4 globally for the percentage of international students. With a growing network of over 40,000 alumni across the world, AU continues to prepare graduates who are career-ready, globally aware, and committed to shaping a better future for their communities and beyond.
Gulf Today
4 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
Pension body launches second phase of ‘Wafra' programme
The General Pension and Social Security Authority (GPSSA) has launched the second phase of the 'Advanced Proactive Financial Planning System' project, called 'Wafra'. Developed in partnership with the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council through the NAFIS programme, 'Wafra' focuses on enhancing financial literacy among NAFIS beneficiaries who are covered by the UAE pension laws, empowering them to build a more secure financial future in the private sector. This initiative highlights GPSSA's commitment to nurturing national talent and improving the financial and social stability of UAE nationals. It is part of the third cycle of transformative projects for federal government entities for 2024-2025. It also embodies the leadership's commitment to adopting innovative, human-centric government models that enhance the UAE's global competitiveness. The project directly contributes to the UAE government's ambitious goals of cultivating a more prosperous society over the next decade, aligning seamlessly with the 'We the UAE 2031' vision. The programme equips Emiratis with essential financial knowledge through specialised training programmes and awareness campaigns available via the NAFIS digital platform. The platform ensures that a wide group of Emirati talent, including private and banking sector employees, jobseekers in the local market, and university students, can access its benefits. The second phase of the 'Wafra' programme focuses on core themes that address the needs of NAFIS beneficiaries. It aims to educate participants about GPSSA's laws and the benefits they offer, empowering them to make better retirement choices and plan for their future. The programme also provides guidance on investment options and effective wealth management strategies post-retirement, highlighting the importance of early financial planning to ensure a stable and secure future. Through the 'Wafra' project, GPSSA aims to raise financial planning awareness by 80 percent. GPSSA works in partnership with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council, leveraging the NAFIS platform and various media channels. WAM
Sharjah 24
5 days ago
- Business
- Sharjah 24
GPSSA launches 2nd 'Wafra' programme in collaboration with NAFIS
Developed in partnership with the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council through the NAFIS programme, "Wafra" focuses on enhancing financial literacy among NAFIS beneficiaries who are covered by the UAE pension laws, empowering them to build a more secure financial future in the private sector. This initiative highlights GPSSA's commitment to nurturing national talent and improving the financial and social stability of UAE nationals. It is part of the third cycle of transformative projects for federal government entities for 2024-2025. It also embodies the leadership's commitment to adopting innovative, human-centric government models that enhance the UAE's global competitiveness. The project directly contributes to the UAE government's ambitious goals of cultivating a more prosperous society over the next decade, aligning seamlessly with the "We the UAE 2031" vision. The programme equips Emiratis with essential financial knowledge through specialised training programmes and awareness campaigns available via the NAFIS digital platform. The platform ensures that a wide group of Emirati talent, including private and banking sector employees, jobseekers in the local market, and university students, can access its benefits. The second phase of the "Wafra" programme focuses on core themes that address the needs of NAFIS beneficiaries. It aims to educate participants about GPSSA's laws and the benefits they offer, empowering them to make better retirement choices and plan for their future. The programme also provides guidance on investment options and effective wealth management strategies post-retirement, highlighting the importance of early financial planning to ensure a stable and secure future. Through the "Wafra" project, GPSSA aims to raise financial planning awareness by 80 percent. This goal is supported by comprehensive educational programmes in social insurance, investment, and savings, developed by the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Academy. These tailored programmes are designed to equip UAE nationals with the necessary knowledge and tools to manage their finances effectively and confidently. GPSSA works in partnership with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council, leveraging the NAFIS platform and various media channels. The initial phase of the "Wafra" project, launched in July 2024, focused on raising awareness about financial needs throughout an individual's life. It covered topics such as understanding financial products and terms, effective money and debt management, navigating financial challenges, and seeking financial advice for investment and fund management.
Hi Dubai
16-07-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
UAE Launches 2027–2029 Federal Budget Cycle with AI-Driven, Sustainable Vision
The UAE Ministry of Finance has launched the 2027–2029 federal budget cycle, marking a strategic evolution in the country's financial planning system. Designed to be more agile, efficient, and future-focused, the new cycle aligns with national ambitions under 'We the UAE 2031' and long-term goals of UAE Centennial 2071. Announced alongside the federal government's latest strategic planning framework, the new budget model redefines the federal budget from a static financial tool into a strategic enabler that supports national priorities, including education, healthcare, digital transformation, and sustainability. His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, noted that the upgraded financial system prioritises flexibility, proactivity, and impact. 'Our vision is to transform the federal budget into a future-ready instrument that drives sustainable growth and elevates the quality of government services to new heights,' he said. The cycle is supported by advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence and predictive analytics, to improve planning accuracy, accelerate execution, and ensure data-driven decision-making. AI will play a pivotal role in enhancing institutional efficiency and forecasting national needs more precisely. His Excellency Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, highlighted that reforms have already led to significant improvements—budget preparation steps have been cut from 50 to 10, and procurement cycles now take under six minutes. The previous four budget cycles saw a combined allocation of approximately AED900 billion. The new cycle builds on this foundation, with public debt at AED62.1 billion as of June 2025, and federal government assets reaching AED464.4 billion by the end of 2024. This forward-looking model focuses on outcomes over expenditures, empowering federal entities to deliver impactful services, drive smart governance, and reinforce the UAE's position as a global leader in financial innovation. News Source: Dubai Media Office
