The United Arab Emirates (UAE) proudly celebrates its 53rd Eid Al Etihad (UAE National Day), reflecting on the impressive advancements achieved under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Growth across key sectors
In 2024, the UAE experienced substantial growth across vital sectors, including governance, legislation, space exploration, housing, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and sustainability. Numerous initiatives were launched to strengthen the nation’s status as a beacon of progress and innovation on the global stage, WAM reported.
Cabinet reshuffle and governance enhancements
A pivotal move to enhance governance involved a Cabinet reshuffle, introducing new appointments such as H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, who took on the roles of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence. H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed also became Deputy Prime Minister while continuing as Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Legislative advancements
Additionally, new roles were established, including a Minister of Sports and a Minister of State for Entrepreneurship. Legislative advancement was a central theme in 2024, marked by updates to various laws. Notable changes included the formation of the “International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council,” new traffic and road safety regulations, and legislation addressing communicable diseases. Amendments were also made to laws concerning money laundering, terrorism financing, and labor relations, among others.
Read more | UAE National Day: Celebrating 53rd Eid Al Etihad with nationwide festivities
Progressive initiatives for development
The UAE introduced several progressive initiatives in 2024, such as the Young Government Leaders Programme, the National Investment Strategy 2031, and the Reyada Fund to support graduates and entrepreneurs. The “Plant the Emirates” programme was launched to enhance agricultural development, alongside a government efficiency initiative aimed at streamlining bureaucratic processes and reducing service times.
Major infrastructure projects
Major infrastructure developments included the full operation of all four reactors at the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, new water management systems, and the design of a new terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport, which is set to accommodate 260 million passengers annually. The UAE also advanced a rainwater drainage project in Dubai and expanded the Dubai Exhibition Centre.
Water management innovations
In Sharjah, a desalination plant was inaugurated in partnership with Saudi Arabia’s ACWA Power, marking the emirate’s first Independent Water Project to meet growing potable water demands. Meanwhile, Umm Al Qaiwain unveiled one of the world’s largest reverse osmosis desalination facilities and announced plans for a logistics city and a dedicated airport for cargo operations.
Housing sector achievements
In the housing sector, homeownership among Emirati citizens reached 91 percent, with 90,000 beneficiaries of federal housing programs since 1999, amounting to AED60 billion. Moreover, the Cabinet approved the launch of the “Manzili” package for beneficiaries of the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, which provides 18 services through collaboration with 24 federal and local government entities.
Financial support for homeownership
In Abu Dhabi, housing support for citizens totaled AED13.216 billion in 2024, benefiting 8,891 individuals. Dubai allocated 3,500 residential plots and 2,300 ready homes valued at AED5.5 billion, while Sharjah introduced new housing support initiatives.
Advancements in space exploration
In the space sector, the UAE joined NASA’s Lunar Gateway Station and sent its first Emirati astronaut into lunar orbit as part of the initiative. It also completed NASA’s second space simulation study as part of the HERA mission.
The country established the “Supreme Space Council” and launched the Satgate project, while preparations for the MBZ-SAT continued.
Empowering women in society
In 2024, the UAE achieved significant milestones in women’s empowerment, ranking seventh globally and first regionally in the UNDP Gender Inequality Index 2024. Women now account for 70 percent of university graduates, 46 percent of the workforce, and 68 percent in the public sector, holding one-third of ministerial positions and 50 percent of the seats in the Federal National Council.
Cultural sector developments
The cultural sector also flourished as a vital economic driver, with the passing of a law to support the arts and the organization of cultural events, including the opening of the “Light and Peace” Museum at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre. Noteworthy archaeological discoveries were made, such as stone tools and bones dating back 13,000 to 7,500 years in Fujairah, Bronze Age artifacts in Abu Dhabi’s “Umm an-Nar” area, and Roman gold coins in Umm Al Qaiwain.
Commitment to sustainability
In 2024, the UAE amplified its commitment to sustainability, designating the year as the “Year of Sustainability.” Since assuming the presidency of COP28, the UAE has solidified its leadership in climate action and development. Under its chairmanship, the UAE accomplished several significant milestones, including the landmark “UAE Consensus,” which serves as a global model for climate ambition and sustainable development.
Water initiatives and energy solutions
The UAE also launched the “Mohammed bin Zayed Water Initiative” to combat global water scarcity and introduced the world’s first “Vertiport” powered by clean energy. The nation made notable progress toward sustainable development goals, achieving 58 percent, in contrast to the global average of 17 percent.
Strategic partnerships for climate action
A strategic alliance was formed with the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) to support 20 developing nations in fulfilling their climate commitments. Moreover, the UAE signed a $30 million partnership with Ghana to promote nature-based community development and climate solutions.
At COP29 in Baku, the UAE presented the Mangrove Alliance for Climate Strategy 2031 and announced the initiation of the “Global Energy Efficiency Alliance,” alongside the development of the first-ever “ChatGPT” tool tailored for the agricultural community.
Education system restructuring
In education, the UAE restructured its education system and declared February 28 as “UAE Education Day” to encourage excellence in future-oriented fields. It also announced the establishment of Dubai National University with an AED4.5 billion investment and Al Dhaid University in Sharjah.
Healthcare investments
In healthcare, the UAE allocated AED5.745 billion (8 percent of the federal budget) for health services and community care in 2025. The government rolled out a National Women’s Health Policy to guarantee high-quality preventive, therapeutic, and rehabilitative care. Additionally, a health insurance scheme for private sector workers and domestic helpers was introduced.
Genetic testing and employment initiatives
Starting in January 2025, genetic testing will be included in mandatory pre-marriage screenings for citizens. The “Nafes” programme successfully employed over 425 citizens in the private healthcare sector, with plans to recruit more than 1,600 additional workers.
Sports achievements
In sports, Al Ain FC triumphed in the AFC Champions League™ 2023/24, defeating Japan’s Yokohama F. Marinos. Sharjah Handball Club secured victory in the Asian Handball Championship against Saudi Arabia’s Al Khaleej.
The UAE Jiu-Jitsu team excelled at the World Championship in Greece, amassing 61 medals, and topped the World Jiu-Jitsu Cup 2024 in Croatia with 18 medals.
