UAE Marks 53rd Eid Al Etihad Celebrating Significant Achievements And Future Vision

The United Arab Emirates celebrated its 53rd Eid Al Etihad, reflecting on significant advancements under President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Throughout 2024, the UAE achieved notable progress in governance, legislation, space exploration, housing, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and sustainability. Various initiatives were introduced to enhance the nation's global standing as a model of innovation and development.

In governance, the UAE reshuffled its Cabinet with new appointments. H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum became Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence. H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed was appointed Deputy Prime Minister while continuing as Minister of Foreign Affairs. New roles like Minister of Sports and Minister of State for Entrepreneurship were also established.

The UAE focused on legislative reforms in 2024. Updates included forming the "International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council," revising traffic laws, and addressing communicable diseases. Amendments were made to laws on money laundering, terrorism financing, and labour relations to enhance legal frameworks.

Infrastructure projects saw significant advancements. The Barakah Nuclear Power Plant's four reactors became fully operational. New water management projects were initiated alongside designing a terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport to handle 260 million passengers annually. Dubai progressed with a rainwater drainage project and expanded the Dubai Exhibition Centre.

The housing sector witnessed substantial growth with a homeownership rate among Emiratis reaching 91%. Since 1999, federal housing programmes benefited 90,000 citizens with AED60 billion allocated. The "Manzili" bundle was launched for Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme beneficiaries, offering 18 services through collaboration with 24 government entities.

In Abu Dhabi, AED13.216 billion supported housing for citizens in 2024, benefiting 8,891 people. Dubai allocated residential plots and homes worth AED5.5 billion while Sharjah introduced new housing support measures.

Space Exploration Milestones

The UAE made strides in space exploration by joining NASA's Lunar Gateway Station and sending its first astronaut into lunar orbit as part of the project. The country completed NASA's second space simulation study under the HERA mission and established the "Supreme Space Council." Preparations for the MBZ-SAT continued alongside launching the Satgate project.

Sustainability Initiatives

The UAE marked 2024 as the "Year of Sustainability," reinforcing its leadership in climate action during COP28 presidency. Significant milestones included achieving the historic "UAE Consensus" as a global reference for climate ambition. The "Mohammed bin Zayed Water Initiative" addressed global water scarcity while introducing clean energy-powered "Vertiport."

A strategic partnership with IRENA helped 20 developing countries meet climate commitments. A $30 million partnership with Ghana supported nature-based community development solutions. At COP29 in Baku, the UAE unveiled the Mangrove Alliance for Climate Strategy 2031 and launched an initiative to establish the "Global Energy Efficiency Alliance."

Education System Overhaul

The UAE restructured its education system by declaring 28th February as "UAE Education Day" to promote excellence in future-focused fields. The creation of Dubai National University with an AED4.5 billion investment was announced alongside Al Dhaid University in Sharjah.

Healthcare Advancements

In healthcare, AED5.745 billion (8% of the federal budget) was allocated to health services in 2025. A National Women's Health Policy ensured high-quality care while introducing health insurance for private sector workers and domestic helpers. Genetic testing will be mandatory in pre-marriage screenings from January 2025.

Cultural Sector Growth

The cultural sector strengthened as an economic driver with laws supporting arts and events like opening the "Light and Peace" Museum at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre. Archaeological discoveries included ancient tools in Fujairah, Bronze Age relics in Abu Dhabi's Umm an-Nar area, and Roman coins in Umm Al Qaiwain.

Women's Empowerment Progress

The UAE ranked seventh globally for women's empowerment according to UNDP Gender Inequality Index 2024—first regionally—with women representing 70% of university graduates and holding one-third of ministerial positions.

Women make up 46% of the workforce; they occupy half of Federal National Council seats while contributing significantly across sectors.

Sports Achievements

In sports achievements: Al Ain FC won AFC Champions League™ against Yokohama F Marinos; Sharjah Handball Club clinched Asian Handball Championship over Saudi Arabia’s Al Khaleej; UAE Jiu-Jitsu team dominated World Championship winning medals globally including Greece & Croatia events respectively.

With inputs from WAM