Latest news with #digitalgovernment
Tahawul Tech
4 days ago
- Business
- Tahawul Tech
Bespin Global outline their mission to take public sector enterprises to the cloud
Bespin Global, an e& enterprise company outlined in detail how their agile product portfolio is designed to help public sector enterprise navigate and circumvent issues they face when migrating to public sovereign cloud models, during an exclusive roundtable held at the Ritz-Carlton JBR earlier this week. The roundtable was held in conjunction with CPI Media Group, and was moderated by CNME Editor Mark Forker. The topic of the roundtable was entitled, Next-Gen Governance: Powering the Future of Digital Government with Cloud. The series of presentations were delivered by the executive leadership from Bespin Global, which included; Mouteih Chaghlil, CEO of Bespin Global, Bassam Abbasi, Head of Network & Security, at Bespin Global and Sami Wahab, VP – Sales at Bespin Global. The roundtable was attended by IT leaders from the following public sector organisations. Abu Dhabi Mobility Sharjah Muncipality Smart Umm Al Quwain Dubai Multi Commodities Centre Authority (DMCC) Dubai Legal Department EDGE Group Al Kuwait Hospital Dubai Dubai Culture & Arts Ministry of Finance Dubai Air Navigation Services The first session of the roundtable was delivered by Bespin Global CEO, Mouteih Chaghlil, who laid out how the company wants to be the partner of choice for public sector entities looking to accelerate their migration to the cloud. 'We know there are many challenges, and data classification is certainly a big one. What sort of data do I have, what is it, where is it, where does it need to reside, this sort of data classification needs to be determined, but it's not always black and white, and AI is only as good as the data you have. However, what we do know is that 32% of public sector entities in the UAE, KSA and Egypt are already utilising cloud-based customer engagement solutions, and 40% of them are planning to adopt cloud in the next few years. The opportunity is huge, and we know we have the capabilities to build secure and compliant hybrid/multi-cloud environments that support sovereignty and resilience,' said Chaghlil. There was a huge level of engagement and interaction between Chaghlil and those in attendance, with some outlining their desire to remain with SaaS cloud models. Chaghlil then highlighted how public services digitised with cloud and AI can really deliver localised innovation at scale. 'Our cloud-native solutions are tailored to national priorities and governance models. Our AI models trained on localised data ensure cultural and legal alignment. Integration with legacy systems enables a smooth transition without disruption and scalable infrastructure enables a rapid deployment of new services. In addition to this, having real-time access to unified data across agencies improves responsiveness and collaboration,' said Chaghlil. The next presentation was delivered by Bassam Abbasi, Head of Network & Security, at Bespin Global, and he stressed the importance of building a secure hybrid/multi cloud strategy in order to to ensure smooth migrations for mission-critical systems. There was a sharp focus on the role of AI in relation to cybersecurity, and how it builds that resilience and transparency that governments require. Abbasi insisted that people will remain at the core of digital transformation. 'Trust, transparency and control are critical, they are non-negotiable, and we get that. We can implement sovereign cloud models to protect sensitive citizen data, whilst maintaining that transparency on the data in line with clear governance rules and policies. We offer opt-in features and self-service options that ultimately empower users. At the end of the day, that is our goal, we want to take people with us in a way in which they maintain autonomy on the direction, but also have agility with accountability,' said Abbasi. Abbasi also highlighted how the landscape was change dramatically over the next few years. 'Within the next 1-3 years the picture is going to look a lot different due to the fact that public sector enterprises are going to pivot to either hybrid multi-cloud (33%), multiple public clouds (31%) or hybrid cloud (23%), with only 7% planning to remain solely in a datacentre, or private cloud. This change is driven by the need to modernize infrastructure to meet increasing demand for digital citizen services, improve the citizen experience, strengthen data security, and harness the power of emerging technologies. In addition, IT leaders are motivated to modernize their IT environment to prepare for future crises,' said Abbasi. The final presentation of the roundtable was delivered by Sami Wahab, VP – Sales at Bespin Global. His presentation examined the elements that come beyond migrations, and was focused on how Bespin can unlock innovation and increase efficiency in the public sector. He highlighted how Bespin Global's products can 'modernise workforces' across the public sector. 'We know we have the capability to boost productivity and enhance collaboration with our state-of-the-art modern workforce solutions with a secure framework that ensures seamless connectivity and data protection, and it is ultimately designed to transform the way you work. In summary, we design, develop and implement bespoke cloud solutions that specifically cater to your unique business needs,' said Wahab. Wahab concluded a brilliant presentation by giving those attendance some predictions that they envisage over the next few years. 'In terms of the multi-cloud, by 2027, 40% of enterprises will rely on interwoven IT architectures across cloud, core, and edge to support dynamic, location-agnostic workflow priorities. When it comes to GenAI on the cloud, by the end of this year, 70% of enterprises will form strategic ties to cloud providers for GenAI platforms, developer tools, and infrastructure, requiring new corporate controls for data and cost governance – and in terms of cloud data mobility, over the next 12 months, 55% of the G2000 will adopt multi cloud data logistic platforms to enable active data migration between hyperscalers to optimise costs, reduce vendor dependencies, and improve governance,' said Wahab.
Zawya
28-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
UAE participates in the 27th meeting of the Executive Committee for Digital Government in GCC countries
United Arab Emirates – The United Arab Emirates, represented by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), participated in the 27th meeting of the Executive Committee for Digital Government in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The meeting was held in Kuwait, with the presence of Their Excellencies, heads of digital government authorities and programs in GCC countries, representatives of the General Secretariat, and several executive officials from Gulf digital entities. The UAE delegation was headed by H.E. Eng. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Deputy Director General for the Information and Digital Government Sector at TDRA. The committee discussed several important agenda items, including the follow-up on decisions from the previous (26th) meeting and reviewed progress on initiatives under the GCC Digital Government Guiding Strategy. The committee was also briefed on reports from technical working groups, including the Joint Digital Services Working Group, the Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies Working Group, and the Digital Trust Services Working Group. Commenting on the meeting, H.E. Eng. Mohammed Al Zarooni DDG for Information and DGOV sector stated: "Our participation in the 27th meeting of the Executive Committee for Digital Government in GCC countries marks a significant milestone in enhancing regional cooperation in digital transformation. The meeting featured productive discussions on developing unified strategies, particularly in the areas of artificial intelligence and shared digital services. This reflects a growing awareness of the need for continuous modernization of government systems and services in light of rapid technological advancements. In the UAE, we believe the future of governance lies in comprehensive digital transformation. Therefore, we are committed to actively contributing to the formulation of Gulf initiatives and policies that support sustainable development goals and foster regional integration. We look forward to continued constructive collaboration, especially in light of the future plans reviewed during the meeting.' The committee placed special focus on artificial intelligence initiatives, approving the development of a Gulf Guiding Strategy for Artificial Intelligence within the broader framework of the Digital Government Guiding Strategy. The meeting concluded with discussions on preparations for the 9th Ministerial Committee Meeting on Digital Transformation, including a review of the minutes and strategic recommendations from the 8th meeting. The UAE's participation in this meeting underscores its commitment to supporting joint Gulf efforts, enhancing digital infrastructure, and developing government services by adopting cutting-edge technologies—contributing to a comprehensive and sustainable digital future for the peoples of the Gulf. About TDRA : The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) is responsible for regulating and developing the telecommunications and information technology sector in the United Arab Emirates, while also driving digital transformation at the national level. TDRA works to provide an advanced regulatory environment that supports innovation, stimulates investment, and ensures the delivery of cutting-edge and sustainable telecommunications services. The authority plays a pivotal role in leading the digital transformation journey by developing digital infrastructure, empowering the telecommunications sector, and enhancing the ecosystem of digital government services. TDRA is committed to improving the quality and continuity of digital services by establishing legislative and regulatory frameworks that foster innovation and strengthen the country's readiness to keep pace with rapid digital advancements. Its responsibilities include regulating the telecommunications sector to ensure competitiveness, protecting consumer rights, and maintaining a balance between service providers. Additionally, TDRA leads the national digital government strategy, manages the radio frequency spectrum, and regulates the use of wireless frequencies to support various sectors, including telecommunications and smart services. With a visionary approach, TDRA aims to position the UAE as a global hub for digital innovation and enhance its readiness for the digital future, in alignment with the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 and the UAE Centennial 2071 Agenda.
Arabian Business
27-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
UAE tops global digital dovernment rankings: Report
The UAE has secured first place in three global telecommunications and digital government indices, according to the second edition of the State of Digital Transformation Report released by the UAE's Higher Committee for Government Digital Transformation during the Digital Readiness Retreat. The country ranked first globally in the UN indices for telecommunications infrastructure, institutional framework for digital government, and digital content. It also topped the digital knowledge index. Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi, Minister of State for Government Development and the Future in the UAE Government and Chair of the Committee, said digital readiness and transformation are central to the UAE leadership's vision, aiming to eliminate bureaucracy and enhance quality of life through technology, according to a statement by the Emirates News Agency (WAM). UAE leads world in telecommunications infrastructure rankings Al Roumi noted that the report tracks digital achievements over the past year, showcasing the UAE's leadership in global competitiveness indices related to digital governance. She said it is intended to motivate further efforts to meet national digital goals. The UAE also topped the 'Government AI Readiness Index 2024' by Oxford Insights, ranked third in government service delivery, and placed fourth in the GovTech Maturity Index according to the World Bank. The country came 11 th in both the IMD's Digital Competitiveness Index and the UN E-Government Development Index. Digital government efforts delivered savings of AED368 billion for users and AED20 billion in government cost reductions. The transformation saved 530 million labour hours and cut carbon emissions by 55.8 million tonnes. The report highlights the UAE government's digital achievements across 12 sectors: economy, finance, human resources, health, education, community development, culture and youth, immigration and foreign affairs, security and justice, infrastructure and energy, logistics, and environment. In 2024, UAE federal government entities processed 173.7 million digital transactions. Federal websites attracted 131.5 million visits, and government apps were downloaded 26.3 million times. The government now offers 1,419 digital services, including 195 classified as priority services. Digital services achieved a satisfaction rate of 91 per cent, with more than 57 million users benefiting. There are currently 460 digital transformation projects running across federal agencies. UAE pass serves 10.8 million users as country achieves top global digital government rankings The UAE Pass digital identity system serves 10.8 million users and connects to 15,000 services, supporting 2.6 billion integrated digital transactions. The economic sector completed 5.2 million tax transactions digitally, alongside 316,800 certificates of origin and 64,100 trademark registration and renewal requests. The finance sector processed 8,300 vendor registrations, 2,500 financial market employee accreditations, and 1,000 foreign investment fund renewals. The sector handled 13.2 million work permit applications and 8 million employment contract transactions. The 'Jahiz' digital learning platform delivered 1.2 million training hours. Healthcare services filled 2 million prescriptions using robotic pharmacies and conducted 1 million chest X-rays using artificial intelligence. Medical professionals held 437,900 remote consultations. The education sector delivered digital learning to 1.4 million individuals and processed 445,700 university course registrations. Community services answered 115,600 digital inquiries and completed 243,800 zakat and donation transactions, as well as 125,700 digital requests for fatwas and zakat calculations. The justice and security sector processed 4.2 million traffic fine payments, 1.5 million vehicle registrations, and 417,800 criminal record certificate applications digitally. The identity and residency sector handled 4.7 million Emirates ID renewals, 1.6 million private sector residency permit renewals, and 596,200 digital document attestations. Infrastructure and logistics services completed 5,900 housing assistance requests, issued 68,500 national transport permits, and granted 3,000 nuclear activity licenses. Environmental authorities processed 76,600 plant health certificates, 39,600 veterinary export certificates, and 59,900 agricultural product clearance transactions. The culture sector issued 2,400 library memberships, registered 368 cultural artefacts, and fulfilled 162 event space rental requests.
Zawya
27-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
UAE ranks first globally in telecom infrastructure, digital government framework, digital content
DUBAI - The UAE has secured the top global ranking in the telecommunications infrastructure index, the institutional framework for digital government, and the digital content index, according to the second edition of the 'State of Digital Transformation Report'. The report was released by the UAE's Higher Committee for Government Digital Transformation during the recent Digital Readiness Retreat. The report highlights the UAE government's digital achievements across 12 key sectors, including the economy, finance, human resources, health, education, community development, culture and youth, immigration and foreign affairs, security and justice, infrastructure and energy, logistics, and the environment. Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi, Minister of State for Government Development and the Future in the UAE Government and Chair of the Committee, said digital readiness and transformation are central to the UAE leadership's vision, aiming to eliminate bureaucracy and enhance quality of life through technology. She noted the report tracks major digital achievements over the past year, showcasing the UAE's leadership in global competitiveness indices related to digital governance. It is intended to motivate further efforts to meet national digital goals. The report notes that the UAE ranked first globally in the UN indices for telecommunications infrastructure, digital government framework, digital content, and digital knowledge. It also topped the global 'Government AI Readiness Index 2024' by Oxford Insights, ranked third in government service delivery, and placed fourth in GovTech Maturity Index according to the World Bank. The country came in 11th in both the IMD's Digital Competitiveness Index and the UN E-Government Development Index. Digital government efforts resulted in significant efficiency gains, including AED368 billion saved for users and AED20 billion in government cost reductions. The transformation also saved 530 million labour hours and cut carbon emissions by 55.8 million tonnes. In 2024 alone, UAE federal government entities processed 173.7 million digital transactions. Federal websites attracted 131.5 million visits, and government apps were downloaded 26.3 million times. A total of 1,419 digital services are now offered, including 195 classified as priority. The satisfaction rate for digital services reached 91 percent, with more than 57 million users benefiting. There are currently 460 active digital transformation projects across federal agencies. In the digital government sector, 10.8 million individuals used the UAE Pass, which now connects to 15,000 services and supports 2.6 billion integrated digital transactions. In the economic sector, 5.2 million tax transactions were completed digitally, alongside 316,800 certificates of origin and 64,100 trademark registration and renewal requests. The finance sector processed 8,300 vendor registrations, 2,500 financial market employee accreditations, and 1,000 foreign investment fund renewals. Human resources saw 13.2 million work permit applications and 8 million employment contract transactions, with 1.2 million training hours delivered through the 'Jahiz' digital learning platform. In health, 2 million prescriptions were filled using robotic pharmacies, 1 million chest X-rays were conducted using artificial intelligence, and 437,900 remote medical consultations were held. The education sector delivered digital learning to 1.4 million individuals and processed 445,700 university course registrations. Community services answered 115,600 digital inquiries and completed 243,800 zakat and donation transactions, as well as 125,700 digital requests for fatwas and zakat calculations. In justice and security, 4.2 million traffic fine payments, 1.5 million vehicle registrations, and 417,800 criminal record certificate applications were processed digitally. The identity and residency sector handled 4.7 million Emirates ID renewals, 1.6 million private sector residency permit renewals, and 596,200 digital document attestations. Infrastructure and logistics services completed 5,900 housing assistance requests, issued 68,500 national transport permits, and granted 3,000 nuclear activity licenses. In the environmental sector, authorities processed 76,600 plant health certificates, 39,600 veterinary export certificates, and 59,900 agricultural product clearance transactions. In the culture sector, 2,400 library memberships were issued, 368 cultural artifacts were registered, and 162 event space rental requests were fulfilled.
Emirates 24/7
09-05-2025
- Business
- Emirates 24/7
UAE ranks 10th globally in Open Data Inventory report
The UAE ranked 10th globally in the 2024/2025 Open Data Inventory (ODIN) report, issued by the Open Data Watch (ODW), surpassing major countries such as Sweden, the Netherlands, Germany, Canada, and the United States. This marks a new milestone for the country, reinforcing its global leadership in adopting digital government concepts and open data. The ODIN 2024/25 Biennial Report, published biennially by the Open Data Watch, assesses the openness and comprehensiveness of data published on the websites of national statistical offices in 197 countries. It covers vital sectors, including economic, financial, social, and environmental statistics, making it one of the world's leading specialized reports. The report's ranking is based on 64 indicators that measure the availability of statistical data provided by countries through official open data platforms and assess whether they meet the international standards of openness. This includes criteria such as machine-readable data, unrestricted data downloads, metadata availability, and comprehensive geographic coverage. The UAE secured first place globally in several indicators, including monetary and banking statistics, food security and nutrition, and the prices and inflation index, where it advanced by 45 ranks. It also ranked second globally in the global trade index and educational outcomes index, with a leap of 54 ranks, alongside other indicators such as environment, health, and gender balance. Majed Sultan Al Mesmar, Director-General of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), highlighted that this achievement reflects the UAE's commitment to a forward-looking vision where digital policies are integrated with comprehensive development efforts. He noted that the UAE has established itself as a global platform for data-driven decision-making and a leader in comprehensive digital transformation in the region and worldwide. 'This achievement demonstrates the UAE's enabling role in enhancing the country's digital readiness by developing legislative and regulatory frameworks, supporting national open data policies, and providing a strong digital infrastructure, ensuring integration between government entities and positioning the UAE as a global reference in adopting digital government concepts, transparency, and data-driven innovation,' Al Mesmar said. Hanan Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC), emphasised that the UAE's advancement in the 2024/2025 ODIN report represents a pioneering model of a future government based on transparency, openness, and the strategic use of data to drive comprehensive development. She noted that this achievement reflects the UAE's forward-thinking vision and continuous investment in building a resilient and advanced statistical system based on digital readiness. It supports the country's global competitiveness and its main objectives in achieving integration between entities, supporting future planning in various vital sectors, developing policies, promoting community participation, and positioning the UAE as a global leader in adopting digital government and open data concepts. Open data refers to a collection of freely available data and statistics that can be used, reused, distributed, or shared by any individual or organization without restrictions. Governments around the world make these datasets accessible to everyone online. In the current edition of the ODIN report, the UAE achieved 92 points in the data openness component and 74 points in data coverage, with an overall score of 84 points. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
