UAE Highlights Global Development Initiatives Supporting SDG8 At UN High-Level Political Forum

The UAE showcased its global development efforts supporting SDG8 at the 2025 UN High-Level Political Forum (HLPF). This participation underscores the UAE's dedication to fostering inclusive economic growth and decent work worldwide. The forum, organised by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs in New York, emphasised sustainable, inclusive solutions for the 2030 Agenda.

The UAE delegation hosted two thematic panels. The first panel, "Economic Diplomacy in Action," focused on how diplomacy can enhance economic resilience and stability in line with SDG8. The second panel, "Vision into Action," explored policy frameworks supporting SDG16, which focuses on peace, justice, and strong institutions.

Mohammed Abdulrahman AlHawi highlighted that the UAE's investment strategy is centred on strategic partnerships that promote innovation and long-term growth. This approach aims to deliver measurable outcomes and lasting impacts to support inclusive development, expand economic opportunities, and contribute to broader social advancement.

AlHawi stated, "The UAE is a land of opportunity. We empower youth, entrepreneurs, innovators, and researchers. Under the leadership of the UAE government, the Ministry of Investment supports transformative global investment flows – not only to foster innovation but to cultivate talent, expand opportunity, and drive sustainable development. This vision has become reality, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to building an integrated ecosystem that supports innovation and enables impactful partnerships. Through an agile regulatory framework, we aim to ensure continued private sector growth in line with the nation’s goal of building a resilient, future-ready economy."

The HLPF serves as the UN's main platform for reviewing and advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Established in 2012, it plays a crucial role in monitoring national and international progress on the 2030 Agenda. This year's forum included detailed reviews of five priority goals: SDG3 (health and well-being), SDG5 (gender equality), SDG8 (economic growth), SDG14 (marine conservation), and SDG17 (global partnership).

Abdulla Nasser Lootah noted that the UAE's model for economic growth is shaping future work opportunities both domestically and internationally. He emphasised that this model is based on inclusiveness and sustainability. It positions the country as a key contributor to ongoing development efforts aligned with the 2030 Agenda.

Reimagining Economic Growth

A high-impact roundtable titled ‘Beyond 2030: Reimagining Economic Growth for People and Planet’ was hosted by several UAE entities. These included the Secretariat of the UAE National Committee on SDGs, the UAE Consulate General in New York, and the UAE-US Business Council. Senior officials like Abdulla Nasser Lootah participated in discussions about mobilising private sector investment for sustainable growth.

Lootah stressed establishing global consensus around sustainable economic concepts is vital. He highlighted future work patterns are essential when setting new global development goals beyond 2045 (XDGs). The UAE delegation's participation aimed at strengthening partnerships through strategic initiatives led by national entities driving inclusive development globally.

The forum reflected the UAE's commitment to a development model rooted in sustainability. It also focused on creating opportunities through international partnerships advancing the 2030 Agenda. Participants explored solutions addressing global skill gaps while reconfiguring trade frameworks supporting development.

With inputs from WAM