UAE International Press Conference Showcases National Achievements And Directions For Global Leadership

The UAE Government Media Office recently hosted the inaugural 'UAE International Press Conference' during the UAE Government Annual Meetings 2025. This event, attended by ministers and over 200 journalists from various media outlets, aimed to foster dialogue between the UAE Government and the media. It highlighted significant updates and achievements in sectors like investment, energy, artificial intelligence, and foreign aid.

Dr. Anwar Gargash, Diplomatic Advisor to the UAE President, emphasised the UAE's influential role in regional and international affairs under President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. "Under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE adopts the concept of strategic independence by building bridges of cooperation with various nations and working collectively through partnerships with friendly countries," Gargash stated.

Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, discussed five core principles guiding the UAE's policies. The first principle is "economic openness," which aims to attract talent and investments globally. "This openness has been a key driver in diversifying our economy," he noted. The non-oil sector now contributes 77.5% to GDP, with a target of 80% by 2031.

The second principle focuses on "balanced political relations." Al Gergawi highlighted that the UAE has signed economic agreements with 32 countries in three years. The growth rate of non-oil foreign trade reached 24.5% this year compared to last year. "The UAE does not take sides with East or West; it takes the side of the future," he added.

The third principle is "agile governance," enabling quick decision-making in economic and technological fields. Al Gergawi mentioned that business numbers grew by 235% over five years due to a law allowing full foreign ownership of companies. He also noted that 80% of legislation has been updated in three years.

Technology as a progress driver is another key principle. The UAE introduced AI as a mandatory school subject earlier this year. According to Microsoft's report, it leads globally in AI workplace adoption for 2025. The 'Stargate' project further cements its position as a tech leader.

Human-Centric Development

The final principle is "human-centric development." Al Gergawi stated that 91% of citizens own homes, reflecting successful housing policies. In healthcare, life expectancy ranks high due to quality care and coverage. The 'We the UAE 2031' vision achieved 67% of its targets across various sectors since its launch three years ago.

Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, highlighted the UAE's commitment to foreign aid rooted in partnership and solidarity. She said: "Since its founding and first steps towards adopting a global humanitarian approach, the UAE has never wavered in extending help to those in need." Over AED 370 billion has been provided globally.

Industrial Growth and Global Competitiveness

Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, outlined efforts to boost industrial contributions to GDP and exports. Since its inception four years ago, industrial sector contributions rose by 62%, reaching AED 190 billion. Effective partnerships have driven this success.

The Ministry aims for self-sufficiency in basic needs while ensuring supply chain sustainability through advanced technology adoption. The UAE ranks fifth globally on Quality Infrastructure for Sustainable Development (QI4SD) Index due to its robust standardisation framework.

Tourism and Digital Economy Initiatives

Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Economy and Tourism Minister, reported that hotels welcomed over 16 million guests in six months this year—a rise from last year’s figures—boosting hotel revenues by AED 26 billion during this period alone.

Omar Sultan Al Olama announced initiatives enhancing leadership within AI domains alongside digital economy projects like Tech Experiment Innovations Initiative or National Platform for Digital Economy Jobs—all partaking towards establishing sustainable knowledge-based economies driven via innovation strategies nationwide.

The conference underscored transparency as essential within governmental communications while showcasing achievements across vital sectors such as investment or energy alongside strategic plans reinforcing global leadership positions held by Emirati authorities today.

With inputs from WAM