Sharjah Sets A Global Benchmark With First Regional Data & Community Development Forum

Under the patronage of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the Department of Statistics and Community Development (DSCD) has announced the inaugural ‘Regional Data & Community Development Forum’. The event will take place on 9-10 October at the Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre. It is the first of its kind in the region, bringing together experts to highlight the power of data in turning sustainable social development plans into tangible realities.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi, Chairman of DSCD, said, "By organising this forum, a first-of-its-kind in the region, Sharjah sets a global example for community development and the undeniable role of data in achieving our aspirations. Accurate data empowers countries to shape their futures and establish themselves as influential economic, cultural, developmental, and social forces."

The forum aligns with the UAE’s strategic vision to strengthen the data economy. It will focus on the rapidly growing data centre market in the UAE, which is expected to reach approximately AED 6.3 billion by 2027 and AED 9 billion by 2028. This growth reflects the country’s commitment to data-driven innovation. The UAE ranked ninth globally in the 2023 Open Data Inventory (ODIN) report by Open Data Watch, which assessed data availability and openness across 187 countries.

Over two days, decision-makers from both public and private sectors will gather alongside economists, business community members, and representatives from regional and global statistical data centres. Discussions will cover strategic applications of data in enhancing healthcare efficiency through artificial intelligence and innovative educational approaches.

The forum aims to serve as a valuable resource for researchers and academics by providing insights into advancements in data sciences. It will offer tools for research and analysis to integrate scientific data into development initiatives. This integration is expected to drive positive change in the region.

Highlighting the critical importance of data in enhancing services and infrastructure, promoting social welfare, and developing urban plans is another key objective. The event will also examine how precise data analysis impacts housing, work, mobility, and trade.

Addressing Societal Challenges

The forum will also explore how programmers and statistical institutions can address pressing societal challenges such as natural disasters, economic turmoil, and pandemics. By doing so, it aims to enhance societal well-being through reliable benchmarks for decision-making.

For entrepreneurs and business owners, this event offers an opportunity to gain insights into data-driven strategies that can elevate competitiveness and ensure long-term sustainability. Practical recommendations for governments and institutions will be provided to inform planning and development initiatives affecting the general economy.

"Within the data-driven world we live in," Sheikh Mohammed added, "the effectiveness of government and private initiatives is measured by their ability to harness and utilise data effectively." He extended an invitation to every individual and institution within the community to join this development journey.

The forum is being organised in collaboration with various entities including the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), GCC Statistical Centre, federal bodies, regional organisations, and international entities.

This event underscores Sharjah's commitment to leveraging accurate data for shaping future economic, cultural, developmental, and social landscapes. By focusing on key areas such as education, healthcare, sustainable living, it aims to improve quality of life significantly.

With inputs from WAM