From reactions to
actions
Over the past 43 years, the federal government has proved that it enjoys a clear vi-
sion and insight into the future. It was able to develop government services in a way
that made the public not only satisfied but happy.
From day one, the federal government sought to reinforce noble deeds and behav-
iors in all its affiliated agencies. It further instilled the team spirit and collective action
in making accomplishments come true. It was able to look to the future through a
positive approach.
The UAE’s strategy relied on sound planning based on an understanding of all local,
regional and global developments, as well as a flexible approach that is based on
regular and rational assessment with a course-correction purpose in line with future
visions.
There is no doubt that the fast-paced growth in government services and work
needs the introduction of unconventional concepts and capabilities that are usually
unfamiliar to government agencies. That can be done by taking advantage of the
best international practices from across various sectors and introducing them with a
fresh and different look into the UAE government. This is exactly what His Highness
Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE President, has been doing since becom-
ing president of the UAE.
Furthermore, the vision of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa for development always
planned beyond the oil resources, this is planning for a future based on knowledge
economy. His Highness said, “From now, we are thinking about how to face the
future when the oil finishes. This can be achieved by diversifying national income.
Developing people on this land is true wealth because money does not last and
knowledge is the basis for progress”. With this clear insight, it is not surprising then
that the UAE has reached high levels of progress and prosperity, rendering it at par
with the most developed countries and a much sought tourist destination.
Knowledge-based economy has made it easier for the UAE to enter the innovations
and inventions era, a stage preceding the utilization and import to production of
modern technology.
The federal government strategy announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed
bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice-President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai
also revolutionized the concepts of administration and translated reactions into ac-
tions.
Yes, actions! The government has become capable of projecting the needs of the
people in the UAE, thus fulfilling them before they are called for or even thought
about. Despite the hardships encountered in initial implementation of the strategy
due to the largely varied cultures of the government employees, the leadership’s will,
determination and dynamic approach were clear and goal-oriented. The leadership
set the necessary goals, time frames, budget and road map for the ministries and
government bodies. What has been achieved over the past five years is a tremen-
dous accomplishment that we should be proud of.
Abdullah bin Aqeedah Al-Muhairy
Secretary General – UAE Zakat Fund
@Aakeeda
