eServices for Rural and Remote Areas in the UAE

The UAE Government is committed to ensuring that all residents including those living in rural and remote areas can access high-quality services, infrastructure and opportunities. The aim is to “leave no one behind” in the digital age and ensure every region benefits from the nation’s development.

U.Ask

Infrastructure & Connectivity

  • The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) is working to strengthen nationwide connectivity and improve the Networked Readiness Index, which measures access to the internet and online services, helping to bridge the digital divide between urban and rural regions.
  • Development projects are underway to enhance infrastructure, including roads, bridges, water, and electricity networks, ensuring that remote areas meet the same standards as urban centres.
  • Public transport improvements, such as the Dubai Countryside and Rural Areas Development Master Plan, include direct bus routes and dedicated lanes for bicycles and electric scooters, supporting sustainable mobility in rural regions.

Health Care & Telemedicine

  • The UAE launched telemedicine services to reach residents in rural and remote areas. Initiatives include Doctor for Every Citizen and Virtual Doctor, providing video consultations and online medical support.
  • Health authorities in Abu Dhabi established comprehensive primary healthcare clinics in rural areas such as Al Ain and Abu Samra, alongside mobile health units that serve senior citizens.
  • In Sharjah, home care services are available for the elderly, and the National Ambulance Service has been extended to northern emirates including Sharjah, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah.

Social & Community Support

  • The Emirates Villages Project, led by the Emirates Council for Rural Development, promotes sustainable economic growth by leveraging the cultural and natural resources of remote communities.
  • The Ministry of Community Empowerment (MOCE) provides social welfare programmes for low-income citizens, including housing, fuel, and food support.
  • Specialised services exist for vulnerable groups such as senior citizens and people of determination, including rehabilitation, home care, and mobile municipal services.
  • Local initiatives like Building Resilient Rural Communities in Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman involve residents in community and ecotourism projects that preserve heritage and enhance livelihoods.

Economic & Agricultural Development

  • Programmes such as Dubai Farms support Emirati farmers with consultation services, subsidised supplies, and market access for their produce.
  • Government entities promote agricultural innovation through technologies like hydroponics to increase efficiency and reduce water consumption.
  • The Agricultural Innovation Centre in Sharjah plays a key role in supporting sustainable food production and local capacity building.
  • Rural development plans also promote ecotourism, protect natural and archaeological sites, and create new investment and employment opportunities.

Digital Services & e-Access

  • Residents of rural and remote areas can access government services through U.AE, where they can apply for social, health, education, and licensing services online.
  • The government continues to prioritise digital inclusion to ensure that every individual can access online services, regardless of location.
  • The rise of e-commerce and digital platforms is creating new opportunities for local businesses and connecting rural producers to national markets.

This means UAE Residents can:

  • Access government services online without travelling long distances.
  • Benefit from virtual medical consultations with doctors and specialists.
  • Enjoy improved connectivity and transport links to major urban centres.
  • Apply for social support and community services digitally.

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Updated On :

23 Oct 2025