Latest news with #ZeroBureaucracy
Arabian Business
10 hours ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
UAE launches Phase 2 of Zero Bureaucracy Programme as it slashes red tape and boosts efficiency
The UAE has launched Phase 2 of the Zero Bureaucracy Programme as it aims to create the world's most efficient government. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, officially launched the project. Speaking at a high-level event attended by over 200 ministers and federal directors, Sheikh Mohammed reaffirmed the UAE's commitment to becoming a global model for efficient, citizen-centric governance under the leadership of President His Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. UAE Zero Bureaucracy Programme Phase 2 Sheikh Mohammed said: 'Today we launch the second phase of the Zero Government Bureaucracy programme, a national project designed to create simpler, faster, and more impactful government services. In its first phase, the programme reduced service delivery time by over 70 per cent, eliminated more than 4,000 unnecessary procedures, and saved customers over 12 million hours. 'We are grateful to the over 30 government entities and 690 teams involved in streamlining government procedures. Today we expand these efforts, focusing on eliminating digital bureaucracy to realize our goal: a government without complexity, services without waiting times, and results that tangibly improve people's lives.' Launched in November 2023, the Zero Bureaucracy Programme has already delivered significant impact: Over 4,000 unnecessary procedures eliminated Service delivery times cut by more than 70% 12 million hours saved annually for customers and businesses AED1.12bn ($305m) saved each year 200 million government transactions streamlined 30 government entities and 690 teams involved AED7m ($1.9m) in awards given to top-performing entities The programme's first phase also introduced major changes in how government teams re-engineer internal processes, making services more responsive, citizen-friendly, and digitally integrated. What's new in Phase 2? The second phase of the Zero Bureaucracy programme will focus on: Eradicating digital bureaucracy by streamlining online processes Ensuring 24/7 uptime for all government digital platforms Modernising and integrating all digital systems using AI Removing redundancies between government entities Enhancing digital customer experience through better data sharing and joint innovations Adopting international best practices for service delivery Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, said: 'The results of the previous phase represent a new, more effective model for government operations, by leveraging internal teams to re-engineer processes and enhance service efficiency. 'More importantly, this translated to over 12 million hours and AED 1.12 billion saved annually for the public, customers, businesses, and investors.' Mohammed bin Taliah, Chief of Government Services in the UAE Government, outlined the second phase of the programme, which aims to further eliminate unnecessary procedures and requirements, eradicate digital bureaucracy, and remove redundant or unnecessary requirements. He explained that the next phase will focus on enhancing government integration, data sharing, developing innovative joint solutions, and adopting leading business practices. During a panel session titled 'Zero Bureaucracy and the Private Sector,' leaders from Tadawi Healthcare Group and MAF Properties discussed the direct benefits of streamlined government procedures on efficiency, service quality, and business performance. The Zero Bureaucracy initiative is part of the UAE's wider transformation agenda, supporting national strategies to create a pro-business, talent-friendly, and globally competitive society. It aligns with long-term goals to boost non-oil GDP, attract innovation, and make the UAE a global benchmark for smart governance.
Zawya
13 hours ago
- Business
- Zawya
Mohammed bin Rashid launches phase 2 of Zero Bureaucracy Programme
UAE, Dubai – His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, affirmed that under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE is building a world-leading model for government services. This model prioritizes efficiency, quality, and impact, aiming to simplify and enhance the lives of its citizens. By integrating best practices, leveraging expertise and technology, the UAE government strives to deliver streamlined services that meet the needs of its people with minimal effort and maximum impact. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said: 'Today we launch the second phase of the Zero Government Bureaucracy programme, a national project designed to create simpler, faster, and more impactful government services. In its first phase, the programme reduced service delivery time by over 70%, eliminated more than 4,000 unnecessary procedures, and saved customers over 12 million hours.' His Highness Sheikh Mohammed added: 'We are grateful to the over 30 government entities and 690 teams involved in streamlining government procedures. Today we expand these efforts, focusing on eliminating digital bureaucracy to realize our goal: a government without complexity, services without waiting times, and results that tangibly improve people's lives.' His Highness Sheikh Mohammed announced the launch of the second phase of the Zero Bureaucracy programme, at an event that detailed the next phase of the programme and its objectives. The launch event, held in Dubai, was attended by over 200 ministers, deputy ministers, and directors general of federal entities. The programme serves as a comprehensive national framework for Zero Bureaucracy projects and initiatives, uniting the efforts of all ministries and government entities. Its strategic objective is to establish the UAE government as the global leader in service delivery, ultimately achieving zero bureaucracy. Mohammad Al Gergawi: Phase 1 results align with leadership vision His Excellency Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, stated that the achievements of the Zero Bureaucracy Programme's first phase align with the UAE leadership's vision to prioritize citizen services and continuously improve and simplify processes. In his opening remarks at the launch of the second phase, His Excellency Al Gergawi highlighted the collaborative efforts of '30 government entities and 690 teams, which successfully eliminated over 4,000 unnecessary procedures, reduced service delivery time by over 70%, and removed 1,600 redundant requirements. The UAE Government has recognized and celebrated the top three performing government entities in implementing Zero Bureaucracy.' His Excellency Al Gergawi said: 'The results of the previous phase represent a new, more effective model for government operations, by leveraging internal teams to re-engineer processes and enhance service efficiency. More importantly, this translated to over 12 million hours and AED 1.12 billion saved annually for the public, customers, businesses, and investors.' His Excellency Al Gergawei stated that the next phase will focus on further reducing unnecessary procedures, streamlining digital applications by achieving zero digital bureaucracy, and ensuring a 24-hour uptime for digital systems, strengthening digital integration between government entities, and enhancing the overall digital customer experience. Significant results In its first phase, the Zero Bureaucracy programme achieved significant results, establishing a new model for government operations. Over 690 teams from 30 government entities eliminated over 4,000 unnecessary procedures, reducing service times by over 70%. This streamlined 200 million annual transactions, saving customers and businesses 12 million hours and AED 1.12 billion annually. Top-performing teams received awards valued at AED 7 million in recognition of their contributions. Expanding the scope The second phase of the programme will expand its scope to fully eliminate digital bureaucracy, streamlining online processes and applications. This involves modernizing all government digital systems and effectively integrating AI. The programme will also continue to eliminate unnecessary government procedures and services, remove redundancies between entities, and abolish all non-essential burdens and requirements. Government achievements During the launch event for the Zero Bureaucracy Programme's second phase, His Excellency Abdullah bin Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, Minister of Justice, highlighted the Ministry's achievements and journey in eliminating bureaucracy. He showcased several initiatives that contributed to the Ministry winning first place as the Zero Bureaucracy Awards' Best Government Team. His Excellency Mohammed bin Taliah, Chief of Government Services in the UAE Government, outlined the second phase of the programme, which aims to further eliminate unnecessary procedures and requirements, eradicate digital bureaucracy, and remove redundant or unnecessary requirements. He explained that the next phase will focus on enhancing government integration, data sharing, developing innovative joint solutions, and adopting leading business practices. Interactive session with the private sector The government workshop concluded with an interactive dialogue session titled " Zero Bureaucracy and the Private Sector." Participants included Marwan Ibrahim Haji Nasser, Chairman and CEO of Tadawi Healthcare Group, and Fouad Mansoor Sharaf, Fuad Mansoor Sharaf, Managing Director of the UAE Shopping Malls at MAF Properties. The session explored the speakers' insights and perspectives on how eliminating bureaucracy impacts the private sector's efficiency, performance quality, and service excellence. Launched in November 2023, the UAE Zero Government Bureaucracy programme simplifies and streamlines procedures, eliminating unnecessary requirements. The first phase targeted a reduction of 2,000 government procedures and a 50% decrease in processing times, reflecting the leadership's commitment to creating a leading future-forward experience that enhances lives, fosters a pro-business environment, and attracts talent.
Zawya
17 hours ago
- Business
- Zawya
Abu Dhabi Prosecution launches smart services package as part of ‘Zero Bureaucracy'initiative
ABU DHABI - The Abu Dhabi Public Prosecution has launched a comprehensive package of new smart services under the "Zero Bureaucracy and Enhanced Customer Experience" initiative, which aims to improve service quality accelerate procedures and provide an advanced system aligned with government efforts toward digital transformation. The new package includes 35 fully automated services and processes without any human intervention, ensuring faster processing, accurate data, and enabling customers to complete their transactions easily and conveniently through digital platforms available around the clock. The newly introduced services streamline several procedures related to the Public Prosecution's functions and enable the automatic issuance of various legal documents such as certificate of 'No Appeal', certificate of 'No Cassation', statement of Passport Retention Duration, Certificate "To Whom It May, Report of cases, Request for Copy of Judgment, Certificate of Detention or Imprisonment Duration, and Fine Payment. Counselor Ali Mohamed Al Balushi, Attorney-General of theemirate of Abu Dhabi, confirmed that the launch of smart solutions package aligns with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, who emphasised the shift toward a smart judicial system based on innovation and modern technologies. He clarified that these services are available via the Judicial Department's website and mobile application, without the need for any paperwork, Traditional signatures and stamps have been replaced with digitally signed and approved electronic documents, enhancing operational efficiency and service quality. Al Balushi stated that this step represents significant progress in developing judicial services, as it saves time and effort for users supports the principle of prompt justice through advanced digital solutions and reflects the Public Prosecution's commitment to supporting the sustainable development goals of Abu Dhabi and fostering institutional innovation. He added that Abu Dhabi Public Prosecution continues to expand its digital initiatives by developing innovative services that keep pace with rapid changes in the judicial and legal sectors efficiently meeting user needs and reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as a leading centre for justice in the region.
Forbes
03-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
What The US Can Learn From Estonia's AI-Powered Digital Government
Interview with Prime Minister of Estonia Kristen Stenbocki maja Michal April 21, 2025 Red tape and bureaucratic nonsense are staples of American government, whether in small towns, major metropolises, or the federal level. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, federal red tape alone costs the public 11.6 billion hours annually. That amounts to nearly 35 hours per citizen yearly, translating to a staggering $117 billion or 0.6% of GDP, drained not by inefficiency but by outdated systems. In contrast, the Estonia Digital Government Model offers a powerful example of how to eliminate bureaucracy and deliver efficient, AI-powered public services. Bureaucratic headaches in the U.S. have become as predictable as death and taxes. But what if there was a better way to solve this constant impediment to proper growth and progress that's already working? I recently had the privilege of sitting down with Prime Minister Kristen Michal of Estonia, where we explored how his country has built one of the most advanced digital governments on the planet, which is nearly 100% digitized, citizen-first, and powered by AI. Estonia's model isn't just a curiosity. It's a potential playbook for how the United States could reimagine governance, slash inefficiencies, and unlock productivity at scale. Estonia's Prime Minister Kristen Michals has ushered in a new era by creating a citizen-centric government, working to eliminate nearly all bureaucracy towards a goal of 100% digitalization of its government services. This push began in 2015-2016 with a project called Zero Bureaucracy. The group behind this were ministers and entrepreneurs who identified the obstacles of working with the Estonian government. Despite a stall in the early 2020s, the project has delivered. According to Prime Minister Michals, 'Almost 100% of our services are online, and we already have more than 130 examples of usage of AI in public services. They are predictive, personalized, and proactive. Let's say, for example, if a kid is born, after that, you will have everything online already, no physical forms and so on… And with everything else, it's the same.' Interview with Prime Minister of Estonia Kristen Michal at Stenbocki maja, April 21, 2025 Imagine never being handed a clipboard again when you enter the doctor's office. They have all your info in their database, so you never have to repeat yourself. You only need to complete an online form when you have a significant change in insurance or medical condition. This model of filing and processing every form and application online and digitally is a windfall for business owners and entrepreneurs. The Prime Minister added that all business owners 'take less time on bureaucracy and more time on their own enterprise, because we have this kind of real-time economic solution…(completely implemented by '27), which will spare about $132 million for Estonian businesses on just filling the forms' and time savings. This type of AI and digital implementation in the United States would make every business immediately more efficient. Contractors applying for permits, awaiting feedback, and scheduling follow-up will see lessened waits and lag time in completing projects. Entrepreneurs would see real savings when applying for business licenses, filing corporate taxes, managing payroll, and handling unemployment claims entirely digitally and in real time. Estonia's thriving AI ecosystem is already driving this transformation across global enterprises. Kaspar Korjus, CEO of Pactum AI, a leading Estonian AI company whose clients include Walmart, Maersk, and other Fortune 500 firms, explains: 'Pactum AI Agents are transforming the operating models of global enterprises by inviting Agents to work alongside procurement professionals. While you read this article, your agents negotiated with your suppliers and generated hard savings for you across your supplier base. Agents have time to give a chance to every supplier, no matter how strategic or transactional one is. In many ways, we see that we will transcend the limits of humans, and thus we learn to become better humans ourselves.' 08 February 2022, Hamburg: Susan Wegner (l-r), Vice President Lufthansa Industry Solutions, Michael ... More Westhagemann (non-partisan), Senator for Economic Affairs, and Andres Sutt, Estonian Minister for Foreign Trade and Information Technology, kneel around a Starship delivery robot during the opening of the showroom of the interdisciplinary Center for Artificial Intelligence at the Artificial Intelligence Center Hamburg (ARIC) in the Dockland building. Photo: Georg Wendt/dpa (Photo by Georg Wendt/picture alliance via Getty Images) Estonia has focused on adopting a curriculum to keep up with rapid AI advancements while fostering critical thinking and creativity. Kristina Kallas, Minister of Education and Research for Estonia said, "Estonia's economic competitiveness depends on how well we can prepare young people for the age of artificial intelligence.' This type of long-term thinking and governmental dedication is the type of action that sets up Estonia for decades of success. In the United States, we are sometimes shackled to election cycles and the short-sightedness of politicians who care first and foremost about being re-elected. I asked the Prime Minister how these successes could be modeled in the United States, and how this could be exported or shared internationally with other countries? Interview with Prime Minister of Estonia Kristen Michal and Mark Minevich at Stenbocki maja, April ... More 21, 2025 'By 2027, one-third of our teachers and students will be learning and using AI tools. If you use AI tools smarter than anybody else, you will probably be a winner…Usually, success stories can be exported. If we are successful in the things we do, … we'll have one-third of our students and teachers using AI tools. And if we succeed in doing that, our example will probably be used worldwide.' But AI still must be introduced and taught as a tool, not anymore. It is not the end-all be-all to knowledge, replacing education. The ability to think, reason, and problem solve is still a core competency in Estonia's educational system. 'Let's say, AI provides all the answers, keeping a critical mind in today's world … is very tough. But it comes from the school curriculum that you should always question facts and use the facts, not just read the headlines and the answers given…This kind of AI lead we're giving to our educators, students and so on, and also using this in businesses and with research and development, will help a lot.' A six-wheeled robot by Starship Technologies makes its way to deliver food from restaurant in ... More Tallinn, Estonia on February 16, 2017. The knee-high, black-and-white robot carefully avoids pedestrians, stops obediently at the red traffic light of a large road junction. / AFP / Raigo Pajula / TO GO WITH AFP STORY BY Anne KAURANEN (Photo credit should read RAIGO PAJULA/AFP via Getty Images) Jevgeni Kabanov, President at Bolt is bullish on the nation's ability to create strong mutually beneficial partnerships between the government and private business to further education. Kabanov said that 'Estonia continues to lead by example by showing how public-private partnerships can facilitate the adoption of new technologies. This has been highlighted most recently by TI-Hüpe (AI-Leap), an educational program which will provide Estonian school students and teachers with free access to AI learning applications.' 21 April 2024, Berlin: 21.04.2024, Berlin. A person rides at Suedkreuz in a vehicle with the logo of ... More the transport service provider Bolt. The company is based in Estonia and offers rental cars, car sharing or booking rides via an internet platform in many parts of the world. Photo: Wolfram Steinberg/dpa Photo: Wolfram Steinberg/dpa (Photo by Wolfram Steinberg/picture alliance via Getty Images) One of the most significant worries globally with AI is how it will affect the labor market. Frightening statistics state that AI will replace 9.1% of jobs worldwide, but on the other side of that coin, 83% of employers state that a worker who has skills using AI will be retained. Estonia's approach to this coming global change has been to invest in its population via upskilling. In 2023, the government earmarked over $10 million (9 million Euros) to advance knowledge and skills in the production, engineering, technology, and IT sectors. 'The only way is to work smarter, not in quantity, but in quality. And AI is helping in that… Estonia's economy was in decline for two years. Right now, it's starting to grow, and growth is also predicted for the next years,' the prime minister added. The ability to leverage AI and use it to help work smarter and more efficiently is the direction Estonia is directing its workforce. 'Future jobs won't be taken by artificial intelligence, but by people who know how to use it better,' said Linnar Viik, AI Leap initiator, Estonian technology expert, entrepreneur, and one of the key architects behind Estonia's digital society. This is a success and a message the United States should look to mirror and apply nationwide, get the workforce to understand the plethora of opportunities AI can provide them as they build a career and life. 'I see AI as a way to increase productivity per person. That is probably the only way for Estonia to go up in the global value chain and pass some countries on the way,' is the Prime Minister's take on this subject. Potential pitfalls when digitizing any part of a business or government include threats from foreign bad actors, data breaches, and a lack of computational power. Only 42% of Estonians believe the EU effectively protects their digital rights. Add to that the fact that only 76.9% of homes in Estonia have very high-capacity network (VHCN) coverage, which is below the overall EU average of nearly 79% and you can see that despite all of the impressive work that has been done, there is still more to do in terms of trust and infrastructure. The government's plan is not to go alone but to develop a strong public-private partnership. Prime Minister Kristen Michal said, 'For us, we know that we as a state, have a good partner in the private sector, which is helping us and also giving critical feedback; what is needed, what can be done better, and so on.' He went on to add, 'We have every day to be wary of Russian and different players attacking… one would imagine that during the Ukraine aggression from Russia's side, that the attacks against European countries and also on Estonia would go down. But no, they have gone up.' A member of the Estonian armed forces is seen in an infantry fighting vehicle during the NATO Spring ... More Storm exercises in Tapa, Estonia on May 20, 2023. The Spring Storm exercise running from May 15 to 26, 2023 is the largest military exercise of the Estonian Defence Forces (EDF) involving allied NATO forces. The Northern and Central Europe NATO forces are organized under the Enhanced Forward Presence (ePF) force currently under leadership of the UK. (Photo by Jaap Arriens / AFP) (Photo by JAAP ARRIENS/AFP via Getty Images) The Estonian government demands and requires all public officials and employees to use only authorized devices on secure networks. This diligence can also be exported to the United States. All levels of government should mandate that all communications occur only on secured devices, networks, and via secure and approved applications. Despite its digital leadership, Estonia is not without economic hurdles. Estonia's GDP only grew by only 1.2% in Q4 of 2024. This was driven by 3.5% inflation, falling exports, and wage pressure. They are forecasted to recover, but it will be a slow process. The government must make difficult financial decisions around increased military spending due to the Russian attack on Ukraine, plus public debt and the need to reform their tax code, designed in the early 1990s, which led to income inequality. The economy overall has a high dependence on foreign trade, which can cause uncertainty due to regional tensions. In the US, a group of tech companies called the Magnificent Seven dominates the industry. In Estonia, they collaborate with technology giants such as OpenAI and Anthropic, and others. Estonia has dedicated itself to balancing innovation while maintaining national sovereignty and data security. When asked the Prime Minister how they do this, his answer was simple and profound. Interview with Prime Minister of Estonia Kristen Michal at Stenbocki maja, April 21, 2025 'To make it very simple, it means that we work with global AI leaders, but that's as much as possible on our own terms…That means that data stays protected, and local as much as possible. We built custom tools for Estonia; the AI is also responsible and transparent by design. As much as possible, everything is in that world. So, sovereign (AI) does not mean isolation, but it means working on your own terms. And as you can probably imagine, as we know the technology, we also know the threats.' Not being tied to any tech company or group of companies can also be mirrored. Relying too much on one leaves you vulnerable and at their mercy. The government must set the terms, and always keep options and avenues open to negotiate or leave when they feel it is needed for the safety and benefit of the nation. To quote Honorable Alar Karis, the President of Estonia, 'We won't use artificial intelligence the most, but we'll use it the smartest.' Estonia proves that government can be fast, efficient, and citizen-first with vision, leadership, and the proper digital infrastructure. The Estonia Digital Government Model is not just a success story—it's a roadmap. The U.S. doesn't lack the talent or technology, but it lacks the will to act. It's time to move from red tape to real-time, before we fall too far behind.
Arabian Business
29-04-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation launches Digital Wallet for service payments
The UAE is introducing a new 'Digital Wallet' to allow businesses to seamlessly pay for Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) services in the country. The MoHRE, in cooperation with Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, has launched the 'Digital Wallet' as part of its digital services package aligned with the UAE's strategy for comprehensive digital transformation of government services. The 'Digital Wallet' allows corporate customers to make payments for MoHRE's services and settle fees and financial obligations instantly. UAE MoHRE digital wallet By linking the Ministry with the bank, the wallet offers fully integrated financial services that enhance service efficiency and deliver added value to users. Mohammed Saqr Al Nuaimi, Assistant Undersecretary for Support Services at MoHRE, called on companies to register for the 'Digital Wallet' on MoHRE's platforms via the 'Electronic Wallet Registration for Companies' service. Companies may begin using the wallet for payments upon approval of the registration request by the bank. He added that the launch of the wallet is the first phase of the service, which will be expanded to include multiple bank options in due course. This will support financial inclusion and align with the Ministry's strategy to enhance labour market efficiency, ease of doing business, competitiveness, flexibility and attractiveness – consolidating the country's position as a leading hub for investment and business. He affirmed the Ministry's ongoing efforts to expand digital transformation, further strengthen the integration of the Zero Bureaucracy programmer by connecting with various entities, streamline business operations, and provide a superior customer experience, reinforcing the UAE's leading position in government services, digital transformation, and integrated service delivery. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has achieved significant milestones in digital transformation and the integration of artificial intelligence, enhancing its services and solidifying its position as a leader in government innovation, especially after transferring all Ministry operations to FedNet. It also successfully completed more than 34 million smart transactions for customers in 2024, a 59 per cent increase from 2023, and received numerous awards for its efficient, innovative, and integrated approach to eliminating government bureaucracy. Following the completion of its first phase, the Zero Government Bureaucracy Programme achieved a 100 percent completion rate for 52 services in its second phase. This resulted in a dramatic reduction in transaction completion time, from 30 working days to just five, with some services now available instantly, as well as a reduction in the required visits, underscoring the radical digital transformation of government services in the UAE.
