Latest news with #ZGB
Zawya
05-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Dubai retains top global position for attracting Greenfield FDI Projects
H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), affirmed that Dubai's continued rise as a leading global hub for the creative economy reflects the far-reaching vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. She noted that Dubai's top global ranking for the number of foreign direct investment (FDI) projects in the cultural and creative industries (CCI) in 2024 — as reported by the Financial Times' 'fDi Markets' and its 'Creative Industries Cluster' classification — reaffirms the emirate's pioneering role in shaping a sustainable, innovation-driven creative economy. Dubai retained its position as the top global destination for attracting Greenfield FDI projects in cultural and creative industries among 233 cities in the report for the third year in a row, surpassing major cities such as London and Singapore. This achievement was driven by the emirate's strong performance across sub-sectors within the broader cultural and creative industries ecosystem. In 2024, Dubai attracted 971 projects in the sector, with total FDI capital inflows reaching AED18.86 billion, resulting in the creation of 23,517 new jobs. Flexible government policies contributed to boosting FDI flows into the cultural and creative industries and strengthening Dubai's position as an attractive destination for investors, entrepreneurs, and owners of innovative initiatives and projects. These include Executive Council Resolution No. (11) of 2025 issued by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, regulating the operation of free zone establishments within Dubai. The resolution allows them to expand their business outside the free zone, provided they obtain the necessary permits from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). The resolution aligns with the ambitious goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which focuses on building a dynamic business ecosystem in line with the leadership's vision to enhance competitive advantages and further improve the efficiency of local and international companies in the city. Another example is the 'Zero Government Bureaucracy' (ZGB) programme, which aims to simplify and reduce government procedures, eliminate unnecessary requirements, and enhance efficiency, quality, and flexibility in government performance across the UAE, positioning it as an attractive destination for investors, entrepreneurs, and innovators. In addition, the recent introduction of the International Art Fairs Grant by the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) offered financial support to Dubai-based galleries participating in art fairs abroad. Sheikha Latifa affirmed that Dubai's forward-looking strategies and progressive policies have been instrumental in deepening its cultural and economic diversity, transforming it into a global hub for business, creativity, and innovation and one of the world's most desirable cities to visit, live, and work in. 'Guided by the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai has succeeded in building a dynamic cultural ecosystem; one that inspires creativity, welcomes talent from across the world, and fuels innovation at every level. Through strategic planning and pioneering initiatives, Dubai has cultivated an environment that empowers creatives, investors, and entrepreneurs to realise their ideas and turn them into impactful, sustainable projects that enrich the emirate's cultural fabric.' She highlighted that Dubai's ability to maintain its top ranking in attracting FDI in the cultural and creative industries signals investor confidence in the city's long-term vision. 'FDI is not only a catalyst for economic growth but also a gateway to inclusive, long-term development. Dubai's success reflects its stature on the global cultural map and its reputation as a destination where ambition meets opportunity. Supported by world-class infrastructure, strategic positioning, and strong economic fundamentals, Dubai continues to be one of the fastest-growing cities for investment and talent,' she said. She further noted that Dubai's performance across key areas of importance to the investor, including technological and innovation capabilities, efficient regulatory frameworks, financial mobility, government transparency, and investor protection, has reinforced its position as a global leader in trade, tourism, and investment, with the cultural and creative industries forming a core pillar of this continued success. According to data from the Dubai FDI Monitor, released by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), and based on the Dubai Framework for Cultural Statistics, the emirate attracted 971 projects in the cultural and creative industries sector in 2024, an 8% increase from the previous year's 898 projects. These projects generated a capital inflow of AED18.86 billion (a nearly 60% rise), and created 23,517 new jobs in 2024, a 9% increase from 2023. This growth was driven by expansion in sub-sectors including advertising and PR; custom computer programming services; education and institutions in CCI domains; CCI business services; filmmaking, media and gaming; software design specialising in advanced technologies, including AI, machine learning, digital engineering and cloud solutions; and paint, coating and adhesive manufacturing. The United States topped the list of countries for FDI capital inflows into Dubai's cultural and creative industries in 2024 with 23.2%, according to the Dubai FDI Monitor and the Dubai Framework for Cultural Statistics, followed by India (13.4%), the United Kingdom (9.4%), Switzerland (7.6%), and Saudi Arabia (4.8%). India topped the list in terms of the number of FDI projects in the cultural and creative industries in 2024 with 18.8%, followed by the United Kingdom (16.3%), the United States (14.2%), Germany (4.2%), and Italy (3.7%). These results reflect Dubai's targeted strategies and focus on these markets as key partners. India also led in job creation through FDI in CCI projects with 18.5%, followed by the United States (14.6%), the United Kingdom (13.6%), Germany (4.3%), and France (4%). Data from the Dubai FDI Monitor, according to the Dubai Framework for Cultural Statistics, showed that greenfield wholly-owned FDI projects accounted for 76.5% of the total FDI projects in the registered sectors in 2024, while new forms of investment made up 15.4%, reinvestment projects 5.6%, and merger & acquisition projects 2.4%. Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), said, 'Dubai's global leadership in attracting greenfield FDI — including in the cultural and creative industries — is a direct outcome of the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and the disciplined execution of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. As we advance toward our goal of solidifying Dubai's position among the world's top three urban economies, the creative economy has emerged as a strategic growth enabler, enhancing competitiveness, stimulating innovation, and reinforcing Dubai's role as a magnet for top-tier talent and international investment. Our regulatory clarity, robust IP protection, and adoption of frontier technologies such as AI are enabling this sector to integrate with high-impact industries including media, advanced manufacturing, and tourism, creating economic value at scale.' Hala Badri, Director-General of Dubai Culture, emphasised that Dubai's top ranking in the number of FDI projects reflects its flexibility and promising investment environment that encourages creativity, as well as the strength of its legal framework that has enabled the establishment of a progressive cultural ecosystem capable of attracting entrepreneurs and creatives worldwide. She said, 'Dubai continues to cement its leadership as one of the most prominent global hubs for FDI in CCI, thanks to its future-forward vision and ability to diversify its economy. Its innovative strategies like the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position the emirate among the world's top three urban economies, and the Dubai Creative Economy Strategy, which seeks to increase the contribution of the creative sector to Dubai's GDP to 5% by 2026, are helping expand opportunities for investors, entrepreneurs, and creatives in the cultural and creative industries. This is reflected in the findings of the 'Creative Dubai: Navigating Tomorrow's Creative Landscape' report launched by Dubai Culture in December 2024 to provide a data-driven analysis of the performance of the creative economy in Dubai and its diverse investment opportunities.' Dubai's success in attracting global creative investments underscores the significance of its investment ecosystem, the evolution of its regulatory frameworks, and its dedication to fostering innovation. As the sector continues to grow rapidly, the emirate remains a magnet for global capital and a vibrant cultural scene, reinforcing its position as a global hub for the creative economy.
Zawya
07-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Etihad Water and Electricity drives transformation under the UAE's Zero Government Bureaucracy Programme
Dubai, UAE: Reinforcing its commitment to customer-centric innovation, Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE) continues to enhance service efficiency, implementing nearly fifty initiatives to streamline processes, eliminate bureaucracy, and improve customer satisfaction. In alignment with the UAE's Zero Government Bureaucracy (ZGB) programme, EtihadWE has introduced strategic measures to accelerate approvals, simplify applications, and integrate digital solutions, ensuring a seamless customer experience. Enhancing Service Connections with Digital Efficiency EtihadWE has restructured its service connection process, cutting the approval steps from 13 to just eight, significantly reducing waiting times. Key improvements include automated invoice issuance following surveys, eliminating manual intervention, and AI-powered approvals for Land Clearance Certificates (LCC) and drawing submissions. Integration with Civil Defence and Free Zones has further expedited approvals, facilitating smoother access for commercial and infrastructure projects. Advancing Customer Services Through Innovation EtihadWE is driving digital transformation to enhance customer convenience. Smart meters now provide real-time consumption tracking, proactive leak detection, and faster service restoration. Customers benefit from expanded digital payment options, including Apple Pay and Tabby. The company is currently working on a new route tracking system that will allow customers to monitor the arrival of emergency technical teams. Additionally, the AI-powered customer support system will offer multilingual assistance, while a revamped online appointment booking system will improve service accessibility. Strengthening Strategic Partnerships EtihadWE continues to expand collaboration with key governmental entities. New agreements enable electronic integration with the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, expediting residential approvals. The company has also partnered with local municipalities and TAS'HEEL, streamlining documentation processes. In line with national sustainability efforts, EtihadWE is supporting the agricultural sector in the Northern Emirates, optimising water and electricity distribution. The launch of the early connection initiative further enhances flexibility and accelerates access to essential utilities for new developments. A Vision for the Future Eng. Yousif Al Ali, CEO of EtihadWE, stated: 'These initiatives mark a significant transformation in how we serve our customers. By embedding efficiency, innovation, and digital transformation across our operations, we are delivering a more agile, customer-focused service in line with the UAE's progressive vision.' He added: 'Our commitment to continuous improvement reflects our responsibility to the communities we serve. Through strategic partnerships and cutting-edge technology, EtihadWE is reshaping the utilities sector for the better.' With nearly fifty initiatives in progress, EtihadWE remains at the forefront of utility innovation, ensuring faster, more efficient, and customer-centric services across the UAE.
Gulf Insider
10-02-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
UAE: Sheikh Mohammed Names Top Performing Government Entities
The UAE today announced the top-performing and lowest-ranked government entities in its Zero Government Bureaucracy programme, an initiative aimed at streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency. The Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure have been named the best-performing entities, while Emirates Post, the General Pension and Social Security Authority, and the Ministry of Sports ranked lowest in the initiative's first performance review. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, announced the results on his X account, also naming the worst-performing entities in the initiative's first performance review. 'Government bureaucracy is the art of turning simple matters into complicated ones,' Sheikh Mohammed said. 'It creates systems that stifle creativity. In bureaucratic systems, procedures take precedence over results, paperwork is prioritized over service delivery, and rules are designed to discourage thinking outside the box.' He emphasized that inefficient systems—often built over years—can be dismantled with bold, decisive action. 'To those not making enough effort, bad bureaucratic systems created over years can be changed with brave and fast decisions in days,' he warned. 'At the end of 2023, we launched an initiative to eliminate and reduce bureaucracy across government entities, along with an assessment to measure their responsiveness in delivering better services, enhancing efficiency, and simplifying people's lives. We commend those who have excelled,' Sheikh Mohammed tweeted. The UAE launched the Zero Government Bureaucracy (ZGB) programme, an ambitious initiative aimed at overhauling the current government work structure to enhance service efficiency and quality, in 2023. The ZGB programme seeks to eliminate redundant government procedures and requirements, significantly simplifying the administrative process. Ministries and government entities are tasked with the immediate implementation of the programme, which includes cancelling a minimum of 2,000 government measures, halving the time required for procedures, and removing all unnecessary bureaucracy by end of 2024. The programme is also set to develop simpler, quicker and more efficient government procedures. By focusing on the consolidation of similar procedures, the removal of superfluous steps, and the acceleration of service delivery, the UAE Government will make an extraordinary leap in the administration of its procedures. Aiming to bolster the effectiveness of government procedures from ministries and federal entities, the ZGB programme will strive to enhance the UAE's leadership and its standing in global competitiveness rankings in terms of government efficiency and minimal bureaucracy.
Zawya
29-01-2025
- Business
- Zawya
100% digital: Estonia sets the benchmark for e-governance
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Estonia is showcasing its achievement of 100% digital government services, highlighting its innovative approach to governance. This aligns with the UAE's ambitious Zero Government Bureaucracy (ZGB) Programme, which seeks to eliminate 2,000 unnecessary government measures and reduce procedure timeframes by 50%. Both nations are committed to driving digital transformation and enhancing citizen services. Enel Pungas, Head of the Population Facts Department at the Estonian Ministry of Interior, noted: 'Estonia's 100% digital government services reflect our dedication to improving citizens lives, and we value collaborating with nations like the UAE to share insights that inspire global digital progress. A Vision of Collaboration and Support The UAE has established itself as a global leader in innovation and governance, focusing on reducing administrative barriers and enhancing citizen experiences through platforms such as Abu Dhabi's TAMM and DIGITAL DUBAI. Estonia's commitment to being 100% digital complements its broader efforts, creating opportunities for knowledge exchange and partnerships that extend beyond digital governance into sectors such as food and beverage, healthcare, and technology. As Estonia celebrates its milestone, the UAE is also making significant strides in its ambitious goal to double the digital economy's contribution to its non-oil GDP, increasing it from 11.7% to over 20% within the next decade. The UAE's proactive adoption of advanced technologies, including AI, blockchain, robotics, and IoT, has solidified its position as a leader within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and a global hub for technological innovation. Both Estonia and the UAE are committed to using digital solutions to streamline processes, enhance productivity, and elevate citizens quality of life. Estonia's success not only serves as a model for collaboration but also aligns with the UAE's vision of governance that prioritises citizen happiness and seamless interactions. The initiatives undertaken by Estonia and the UAE, along with opportunities for bilateral collaboration, have the potential to create transformative impacts across several critical areas. By sharing expertise and innovative practices, both nations can streamline business setup procedures, making it easier for entrepreneurs and investors to thrive. Enhanced government service delivery through advanced digital solutions can significantly improve citizen and resident satisfaction by offering faster, more accessible, and transparent services. Moreover, such collaboration positions both countries to elevate their standings in international competitiveness rankings, reinforcing their reputations as global leaders in innovation and governance. Together, these efforts set a benchmark for how technology-driven strategies can drive economic growth, enhance public trust, and improve overall quality of life. Strengthening Partnerships for a Shared Future As Estonia invites the world to witness its groundbreaking digital achievements, it also opens doors for partnerships with nations that share its forward-thinking ethos. The UAE's leadership in digital innovation provides an ideal platform for collaboration, ensuring that both nations can inspire one another and other nations in shaping a digitally empowered global future. Through their shared commitment to collaboration and innovation, Estonia and the UAE can redefine possibilities in governance. The "100% Digital" initiative not only celebrates Estonia's accomplishments but also highlights the potential of international partnerships to drive progress and inspire change on a global scale. About Estonia Estonia is a global leader in digital innovation and a pioneer of e-governance. By integrating technology with transparency and efficiency, Estonia has created one of the most sophisticated digital nations in the world. The country offers exceptional opportunities for business, innovation and tourism. e-Estonia showcases Estonia's innovative digital society, pioneering e-governance, e-residency, and cutting-edge digital solutions. Trade with Estonia connects enterprises to a dynamic, innovation-driven economy, providing access to global markets. Visit Estonia highlights Estonia as a destination where nature and culture meet innovation, offering travellers a unique blend of medieval charm, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant modern city vibes. This project is funded by the European Union – NextGenerationEU.
