Dubai Announces New Unified Population Registry For Improved Governance

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, has issued Executive Council Resolution No. (50) of 2024. This resolution focuses on creating a unified Dubai population registry to provide comprehensive real-time data on the residents of Dubai.

The new registry aims to centralise population data in Dubai, ensuring it is accurate and up-to-date. This initiative will support the development of government plans, strategies, and policies while providing regular census results. It aligns with Dubai’s digital transformation goals and aims to enhance government services and programmes.

According to the resolution, the unified population registry will be established on the digital platform of the Dubai Data and Statistics Establishment. This registry will serve as the official and sole source of population data for the emirate. The establishment will manage the registry and coordinate with government entities to gather necessary data.

The roles and responsibilities outlined for the Dubai Data and Statistics Establishment include designing, updating, and linking the registry with other records. They are also tasked with preparing user guides and ensuring data security in collaboration with the Dubai Cyber Security Centre.

The resolution assigns the Dubai Electronic Security Centre with ensuring the security of information, communication networks, and government systems. The centre will work alongside the Dubai Data and Statistics Establishment to integrate and audit the digital platform to meet security standards.

This centre will also manage any additional responsibilities necessary to achieve the registry's goals as directed by the Ruler of Dubai. Ensuring that all data remains secure is a critical aspect of this initiative.

Data Providers' Responsibilities

The resolution mandates that data providers from both private and government sectors must supply data according to the Dubai Data Guide. These providers must adhere to approved quality standards, ensure regular updates, coordinate with the Dubai Data and Statistics Establishment, maintain accurate information, comply with security policies, and report any breaches promptly.

This resolution does not change existing legal protections for personal data as outlined in Law No. (26) of 2015. This law regulates data publishing and exchange in Dubai along with other relevant laws.

Implementation Details

The Director-General of the Dubai Digital Authority will issue decisions necessary to implement this resolution. Any legislation that contradicts this new resolution is annulled. The resolution is effective from its issuance date and will be published in the Official Gazette.

This initiative aims to improve future population forecasting to guide economic and social policies effectively. By centralising population data on a digital platform, it ensures that all information is accurate, comprehensive, and updated in real-time.

With inputs from WAM