The UAE National Agenda for Economic Growth: What are the priorities for developing service exports?

“A nation’s growth and the building of its character, and the growth of its economy all depend on the quality of its people,” said Confucius, the prominent Chinese thinker. Centuries ago, his words highlighted the integral link between a nation’s prosperity and the strength of its citizens.

The UAE embodies this timeless wisdom in its very fabric, and the National Agenda for Economic Growth, unveiled last year by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, is a testament to it.

With a strategic focus on sustainable development, youth empowerment, and maintaining economic momentum, this agenda is more than a policy framework—it is a blueprint for a future where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand.

As the UAE forges ahead with its ambitious vision for the future, the National Agenda for Economic Growth stands as a cornerstone of this transformative journey. So why are we looking at it now? The answer is the recent surge in service exports, soaring from AED 570 billion to an impressive AED 606 billion in 2023, underscoring the remarkable growth trajectory of the country.

As the UAE continues to position itself as a global economic powerhouse, its National Agenda for Economic Growth sets a clear roadmap for the future. Central to this vision is the development of service exports, a sector brimming with potential and opportunities.

The National Agenda for Economic Growth outlines several priorities aimed at bolstering the UAE’s service exports. Foremost among these is the enhancement of the digital economy. Recognising the transformative power of digital technologies, the UAE government has launched multiple initiatives to integrate advanced technologies into various sectors. The UAE Digital Government Strategy 2025 and the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy are prime examples of this forward-thinking approach. These initiatives aim to create a seamless, efficient, and innovative digital infrastructure that supports the growth of service exports.

Another key focus area is the development of human capital. The UAE understands that a skilled and knowledgeable workforce is critical to driving economic growth. Programs such as the UAE Skills Strategy and the National Program for Artificial Intelligence are designed to equip citizens and residents with the necessary skills to thrive in a digital economy. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation, the UAE ensures that its workforce remains competitive on a global scale.

The National Agenda also emphasises the importance of a supportive business environment. The UAE has implemented several policies to attract foreign investment and encourage the establishment of new businesses. The introduction of long-term visas for investors, entrepreneurs, and specialised talents, along with the establishment of free zones offering tax incentives, are part of this strategy. These measures create a conducive environment for startups to flourish, driving innovation and contributing to the growth of service exports.

Despite these strategic initiatives, the journey towards developing service exports is not without challenges. One of the primary hurdles is the need for robust cybersecurity measures. As the digital economy expands, ensuring the security and privacy of data becomes paramount. The UAE is actively addressing this challenge through its National Cybersecurity Strategy, which aims to protect the nation’s digital infrastructure and build a secure cyberspace.

Another challenge lies in the rapid pace of technological change. The continuous evolution of technologies requires businesses to adapt quickly to stay competitive. This necessitates a culture of agility and innovation, which the UAE is fostering through its various programs and initiatives.

For new and existing startups, the National Agenda presents a wealth of opportunities. The focus on digital transformation and innovation creates fertile ground for startups to develop and scale their solutions. The supportive business environment, coupled with the UAE’s strategic location as a global business hub, offers startups unparalleled access to regional and international markets. Additionally, the emphasis on human capital development ensures a steady supply of skilled talent, essential for the growth and success of startups.

To conclude, all we can say is that the journey ahead is promising, and the UAE’s strategic vision ensures that its growth story will inspire the world for years to come.