UAE Ministry Of Foreign Affairs Achieves Digital Innovation Milestones For Citizens Abroad In 2024

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has made significant strides in 2024, aligning with the nation's leadership vision to offer flexible digital services. These efforts ensure that services are accessible anytime and anywhere, meeting the needs of citizens. MOFA's achievements underscore its dedication to providing innovative and secure services for UAE nationals abroad, achieving a satisfaction rate exceeding 95% through advanced digital systems.

Among MOFA's notable initiatives is the "Smart Mission" project, which launched the first Smart Mission in South Korea in May 2024. This project supports the UAE's digital transformation strategy and aligns with the "Impossible is Possible" vision. By using cutting-edge technologies, it simplifies government procedures, enhancing efficiency while ensuring seamless service access without human intervention.

The ministry has introduced various initiatives to improve citizen services. These include promoting safe travel awareness during peak seasons and launching targeted campaigns for Emirati pilgrims. Additionally, MOFA focuses on community-centered initiatives like supporting elderly citizens traveling abroad for medical treatment. In observance of the International Day of Older Persons on October 1, 2024, visits were organised to check on patients receiving treatment overseas.

MOFA has also streamlined processes for handling emergency medical cases abroad and issuing return documents. In 2024, over 16,000 emergency calls were received via hotline 0097180024, with more than 4,500 emergency cases recorded. Impressively, 91% of these were addressed within 30 seconds. The ministry also issued 1,239 electronic return documents swiftly when conditions were met.

The ministry continues to enhance its innovative digital services while prioritising citizens' safety and security. These efforts align with directives from President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and MOFA's commitment to improving life quality for UAE nationals abroad. Citizens can access digital services via the official website or UAEMOFA smart app.

Ms. Bushra Ahmed Al Matrooshi, Director of the UAE Nationals Affairs Department, emphasised that Emirati nationals are a top priority for MOFA. She stated that delivering proactive and comprehensive services is crucial for ensuring citizens' welfare globally. The ministry remains dedicated to developing solutions that address citizens' needs while simplifying procedures for accessibility.

Technological Advancements

The Smart Mission sets a global benchmark by offering faster consular services through advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and facial recognition. This enables UAE citizens abroad to access consular services instantly. The initiative contributes significantly to the objectives of the UAE Centennial 2071 and We the UAE 2031 agendas.

MOFA's commitment extends beyond technological advancements; it includes fostering a culture of safe travel awareness during peak travel seasons. This involves launching targeted awareness programmes and campaigns specifically designed for Emirati pilgrims embarking on their journeys.

The ministry reminds UAE nationals that its dedicated emergency hotline 0097180024 is available around-the-clock for urgent matters abroad. Automatic callback technology ensures consistent communication within ten minutes if needed.

Through these efforts, MOFA reiterates its dedication to enhancing service quality for UAE nationals worldwide while maintaining their safety as a top priority.

With inputs from WAM