Digital Transformation Plays A Key Role In Advancing The UAE’s Economic Landscape

Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, commended Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) for its success in digitising services. He noted that these advancements make services accessible to everyone. This statement was made during a panel discussion on the last day of the 10th Dubai International Project Management Forum (DIPMF) 2025.

The panel featured Dr. Aisha Bin Bishr, a global expert in digital transformation, and Dr. Stephanie Hare, a technologist and researcher. Laura Buckwell, a former news anchor and event MC, moderated the session. The discussion began with Bin Touq Al Marri highlighting the UAE's e-government initiative launched in the 1990s by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

This initiative marked the beginning of the UAE's digital journey, evolving from e-government to smart government, and now to an advanced digital government stage. Bin Touq Al Marri attributed this progress to Sheikh Mohammed's visionary leadership and ambition. He stated that digital transformation is crucial for providing accurate information to investors and entrepreneurs in Dubai's economic sectors.

Dr. Aisha Bin Bishr expressed gratitude to RTA for hosting the forum annually. She highlighted RTA's role in driving Dubai's digital advancements across various sectors. Dr. Bin Bishr emphasised that information, flexibility, and collaboration are key to successful digital progress.

Bin Touq Al Marri stressed the importance of strong public-private partnerships for future success. He mentioned that collaboration between these sectors is vital for delivering world-class services meeting global standards. Increasing the digital economy's contribution to the nation's GDP is also essential.

Dr. Stephanie Hare discussed the need for an Artificial Intelligence Action Plan as a foundation for digital transformation success. She emphasised that investment in AI should be prioritised alongside modern city infrastructure development.

Future Focus

Bin Touq Al Marri continued by highlighting how digital transformation aids investors and entrepreneurs operating in Dubai across various sectors. He underscored that enhancing public-private sector collaboration is crucial for knowledge transfer and experience exchange.

The forum concluded with discussions on how prioritising AI investments can drive future growth in Dubai’s digital landscape. The insights shared by experts underscored the importance of strategic planning in achieving successful digital transformation.

With inputs from WAM