DUBAI: H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has approved a series of new initiatives aimed at enhancing Dubai’s innovation ecosystem and strengthening its preparedness for future challenges. The initiatives were sanctioned during a meeting at Emirates Towers, attended by other key figures such as H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
According to Emirates News Agency, the meeting coincided with the 53rd Eid Al Etihad, a significant milestone reflecting the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, realized under the leadership of current UAE leaders. H.H. Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the unity and leadership wisdom that have shaped the UAE into a nation of notable achievements. He praised the ‘Zayed and Rashid’ campaign as a tribute to the visi
onary leaders who set the foundation for a promising future.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan highlighted the Dubai Government’s commitment to reinforcing the emirate’s status as a global hub for innovation, sustainability, and future readiness. The meeting saw the approval of objectives for the next phase of the Dubai Research, Development, and Innovation Programme, with a significant budget allocation of AED750 million. This step is in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to position Dubai as a leading destination for top talent.
Furthermore, the Dubai Resilience Strategy was also approved, recognizing resilience as a crucial strength in today’s rapidly changing world. The strategy aims to establish a global benchmark for readiness, responsiveness, and resilience across various sectors, including community, economy, infrastructure, and government. Dubai’s effective response to previous crises, such as COVID-19, underscores its capabilities in this regard.
Additionally, the Dubai F
ood Security Strategy was approved, focusing on sustainability and ensuring a reliable food supply through advanced technologies and localized production. The Criminal Judgments Implementation System was also sanctioned, aimed at simplifying and expediting judicial processes to enhance public services and community life.
The Dubai Research, Development, and Innovation Programme, overseen by the Dubai Future Foundation, seeks to contribute significantly to Dubai’s GDP by 2033. With funding of AED750 million over three years, the programme will forge partnerships with global universities and research centers, increase private sector R and D spending, and launch the Institute for Future Research to boost global collaborations.
The Dubai Resilience Strategy, led by the Supreme Committee of Emergency, Crisis, and Disaster Management, focuses on five pillars to meet essential needs and protect communities. Initiatives include volunteer programs, digital resilience policies, and adaptive legislative frameworks to
enhance Dubai’s crisis readiness.
The Dubai Food Security Strategy, implemented by the Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority, includes 20 strategic projects to reduce food waste and promote high-tech agricultural projects. Initiatives encompass developing a digital food security platform and supporting small-scale producers.
Finally, the Criminal Judgments Implementation System, developed by Dubai Public Prosecution, is designed to accelerate judicial processes and improve public trust. Key initiatives include smart fine implementation, alternative penalties, and modernized execution mechanisms, aligning with Dubai’s commitment to judicial innovation and excellence.