UAE Cabinet Approves National Investment Strategy & Health Policy
The UAE Cabinet, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, convened at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi to approve several strategic national initiatives. Among the key approvals were the National Investment Strategy 2031 and the National Policy for Combating Health Risks, reflecting the country’s commitment to economic growth and public health.
The meeting was attended by notable leaders, including His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court; H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence; H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance; and H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of the Interior.
National Investment Strategy 2031
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum announced the approval of the National Investment Strategy for the next six years, aiming to position the UAE as a global investment hub. The strategy sets ambitious targets, including increasing annual foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows from AED112 billion in 2023 to AED240 billion by 2031. Additionally, it aims to expand the UAE’s total foreign investment stock from AED800 billion to AED2.2 trillion.
The strategy identifies key sectors for investment, including industry, financial services, transport and logistics, renewable energy and water, telecommunications, and information technology. To support these goals, 12 new programs and 30 initiatives will be launched, focusing on financial sector development, institutional innovation, and market expansion.
Strengthening Economic Partnerships and Trade Growth
The Cabinet also reviewed the UAE’s strategic partnerships with African nations, reporting that 95% of previously approved initiatives had been successfully implemented. The total trade volume with Sub-Saharan Africa grew from AED126.7 billion in 2019 to AED235 billion over five years, an 87% increase. The UAE remains committed to expanding its global trade footprint and strengthening economic ties with key regions worldwide.
Additionally, the Cabinet assessed the progress of the National Digital Economy Strategy, which aims to increase the digital economy’s contribution to GDP from 9.7% to 19.4% by 2031. This reflects the UAE’s dedication to digital transformation and its vision to lead in the global digital economy.
National Policy for Combating Health Risks
In a move to enhance national health security, the Cabinet approved the National Policy for Combating Health Risks. This policy aims to develop response scenarios, enhance preparedness, and establish recovery and control plans for health crises and emergencies. By prioritizing continuous readiness, the UAE seeks to ensure swift and effective responses to public health challenges.
Additionally, the Cabinet approved the Executive Regulations for Organ and Human Tissue Donation and Transplantation, reinforcing the country’s commitment to advanced healthcare. With over 13 licensed transplant centers and a 30% increase in transplant procedures, the UAE has expanded its medical capabilities, offering kidney, liver, heart, lung, and pancreas transplants.
Investment in Research and Development
To strengthen the UAE’s leadership in scientific research, the Cabinet approved the restructuring of the Emirates Research and Development Council, chaired by Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed. The Council will focus on defining national research priorities, developing policies, and fostering collaboration between government entities, private sector organizations, and academic institutions.
Furthermore, the Cabinet established the Pharmaceutical Policies Committee, chaired by Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, to oversee pharmaceutical regulations and ensure the highest standards in drug policies. The Postal Sector Regulatory Committee was also restructured to enhance postal services and logistical efficiencies.
Social Support and Workforce Integration
In social affairs, the Cabinet introduced new decisions to enhance social support and empowerment frameworks. The approved policies set clear eligibility criteria for basic and supplementary allowances, increasing the annual budget for social support programs by 29% to nearly AED3.5 billion. The number of beneficiaries has grown by 37%, with 3,200 individuals successfully transitioning from financial aid recipients to active members of the workforce.
Additionally, the Cabinet approved regulations governing social support disbursement for unemployed individuals, as well as a decision on the Inflation Allowance, benefiting eligible categories, including participants in the Social Support and Empowerment Programme and recipients of local social assistance.
Remote Work System and International Agreements
Recognizing the need for global expertise, the Cabinet approved the Remote Work System from Outside the Country in the Federal Government. This initiative will allow UAE government entities to leverage specialized international talent for project execution and research studies.
In international affairs, the Cabinet ratified 28 agreements, including Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements with Malaysia, New Zealand, and Kenya. Additional agreements covering security, logistics, and government cooperation were also approved, reinforcing the UAE’s diplomatic and economic ties with multiple nations.
Sustainability and Green Initiatives
To support sustainable development, the Cabinet launched the National Green Certificates Programme for buildings. This voluntary classification system aims to certify commercial buildings, hotels, industrial establishments, and government facilities based on environmental sustainability standards.
Additionally, the Industrial Technology Transformation Programme was assessed, highlighting the progress of the Industrial Technology Transformation Index (ITTI), the first-of-its-kind indicator measuring technological advancement and sustainability practices in factories.
Legislative Advancements
The Cabinet approved several legislative measures, including a Federal Law on the Protection of New Plant Varieties and the Executive Regulations of the Federal Decree-Law on Combating Commercial Fraud. Regulations for the practice of healthcare professions by non-physicians, mental health policies, and other legislative amendments were also endorsed to enhance regulatory frameworks across multiple sectors.
The UAE Cabinet’s decisions mark significant advancements in investment, healthcare, digital transformation, social support, and sustainability. By implementing these strategic initiatives, the UAE continues to solidify its position as a global leader in economic and social development, ensuring long-term prosperity and enhanced quality of life for its citizens and residents.
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