UAE Cabinet Approves National Cybersecurity Strategy And API-First Policy To Enhance Digital Security

The UAE Cabinet, led by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, convened at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi. Key figures present included His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and other prominent leaders. The meeting focused on significant national projects and strategies aimed at enhancing the UAE's infrastructure and global standing.

During the session, the Cabinet discussed the Etihad High-Speed Passenger Rail project. This railway, capable of reaching speeds of 350 km per hour, is expected to boost economic connectivity across the emirates. It is projected to contribute over AED 145 billion to the GDP over 50 years. Sheikh Mohammed highlighted its role as a strategic federal link and a step towards advanced infrastructure.

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The establishment of the UAE Logistics Integration Council was approved to strengthen the country's position as a global trade hub. This council will coordinate efforts among key federal and local entities like ports, transport, and customs. The logistics industry, valued at AED 129 billion in 2023, aims to exceed AED 200 billion in seven years.

Innovation remains central to government operations with the launch of UAE Government Innovation Month. The Mohammed bin Rashid Centre for Government Innovation plays a pivotal role in exporting best practices globally. "Innovation will remain at the heart of enhancing government efficiency," stated Sheikh Mohammed.

The National Cybersecurity Strategy received approval, focusing on governance, protection, innovation, building capabilities, and partnerships. The UAE ranks high in global cybersecurity indices and aims to maintain a secure digital environment. Efforts will continue to bolster cybersecurity measures for future progress.

A new phase of the UAE Strategy for Talent Attraction and Retention 2031 was launched. This strategy targets sectors like technology, renewable energy, healthcare, logistics, aviation, and more to attract global talent. According to LinkedIn, the UAE is a top destination for career seekers due to its high living standards.

Infrastructure Developments

The Cabinet reviewed updates on various national strategies including the Circular Economy Agenda 2031 and Combat Desertification Strategy 2022-2030. Significant achievements include rehabilitating degraded land and stabilising carbon levels in soil using AI monitoring systems.

Progress on implementing the National Youth Agenda 2031 was also assessed along with developments in appointing Chief AI Officers within federal government sectors. Challenges were identified alongside opportunities for supporting government work through coordination among federal entities.

International Cooperation

The Cabinet approved joining WAIPA to enhance international cooperation and establish strategic partnerships globally. Reports from various councils such as Infrastructure and Housing Council were reviewed alongside updates from Zayed University's Board of Trustees.

Additionally, several international agreements were ratified including those with Qatar on tax matters and Australia on investment protection. Hosting major events like USIP General Assembly meeting was also approved to bolster UAE's reputation in organizing international gatherings.

Policy Approvals

The API-First Policy was introduced requiring ministries' technological systems to ensure rapid integration with other systems following approved guidelines. A National Geospatial Data Policy was also endorsed aiming at improving cooperation among entities handling geospatial information.

The Cabinet reconstituted councils such as Sports Coordination Council chaired by Dr Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi ensuring strategic advancement within sports sector while promoting initiatives contributing towards development nationwide.

A resolution regarding administrative penalties related accounting profession violations was passed alongside issuance guidelines for bi-directional charging technologies aligning clean energy transition goals globally recognised best practices.

With inputs from WAM