The UAE aims to double the digital economy’s contribution to its GDP from the current level of 9.7 percent to 19.4 percent over the next 10 years, according to a recent announcement made at the G20
Speaking at the G20 Labour and Employment Ministers’ Meeting in Brazil, Shayma Al Awadhi, assistant undersecretary for Communication and International Relations at the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE), said the UAE is expected to invest $20 billion in digital technologies such as information technology (IT), telecommunications, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and robotics over the next three years. This investment signals the UAE’s commitment to accelerating the growth and adoption of digital technologies across its economy.
Read more: UAE’s e-commerce sector set to contribute majorly to MENA’s digital economy
Al Awadhi highlighted the critical role of the G20 as a platform for influential global leaders and decision-makers to discuss pressing issues amidst rapid worldwide developments, particularly in the realm of employment. She emphasized the importance of exploring effective strategies to achieve both short-term and long-term goals, within the framework of efficient and innovative regulatory systems and policies.
Improving lives and streamlining services
Furthermore, Al Awadhi stressed the significance of international cooperation to accelerate technological advancement and ensure effective governance. She noted that the UAE has made substantial strides in investing in advanced technologies, guided by the visionary leadership of its government. The UAE’s focus has been on embracing cutting-edge technologies and leading the way in leveraging them to improve people’s lives, streamline services, and integrate technology across various sectors, particularly in human resources and employment.
Enhancing productivity, efficiency through innovation
Al Awadhi showcased the UAE’s unique approach and experiences as a pioneering exemplar in developing and adopting advanced technology and artificial intelligence. This has enabled the UAE to enhance productivity and efficiency, promote innovation, and encourage the use of advanced technologies in industrial systems and solutions, further reinforcing the UAE’s leadership in driving sustainable industrial development. She highlighted that the UAE had ranked 12th globally on the IMD World Digital Competitiveness ranking in 2023.
UAE’s participation in the Just Transition Leadership Forum
The UAE also participated in the Just Transition Leadership Forum, which was held as part of the G20 Labour and Employment Ministers’ Meeting. This forum focused on discussing measures to create job opportunities and enhance work conditions, with the aim of ensuring social inclusion and alleviating poverty. The key objectives were to ensure decent work conditions and equal pay for everyone.
Moreover, the event included a cultural programme and discussions that explored ways to address the gender pay gap, promote diversity in the workplace, and leverage technology as an optimal tool to improve the lives of all. The discussions underscored the importance of using innovative approaches and policies to create a more inclusive and equitable work environment, where everyone can thrive and contribute to sustainable development.
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