The UAE government has unveiled a significant initiative aimed at fostering youth entrepreneurship through the establishment of the Emirates Entrepreneurship Council. With a budget allocation of AED 300 million ($81.7 million), the council is designed to encourage innovation and create opportunities for young entrepreneurs across the nation.
This announcement was made during a Cabinet meeting held at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi and presided over by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai.
According to Economy Middle East, Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the UAE’s commitment to supporting its youth, encouraging them to capitalize on the country’s dynamic economic landscape.
AED 7 Million Award for “Zero Government Bureaucracy”
In addition to the entrepreneurship fund, the UAE Cabinet announced a new award initiative for federal government employees, valued at AED 7 million ($1.9 million).
The award focuses on achieving “Zero Government Bureaucracy” by recognizing individuals, teams, and entities that streamline government procedures, reduce regulatory burdens, and enhance citizen services.
Sheikh Mohammed highlighted that the award would celebrate innovative government employees who simplify processes, save financial resources, and enhance the nation’s competitiveness.
“We will commend and celebrate innovators and hardworking individuals who dedicate themselves tirelessly to providing resources, serving the public, and enhancing the country’s competitiveness,” he stated during the meeting.
Strengthening Education and Human Resources Governance
The Cabinet also approved the governance framework for the Education and Human Resources and Community Development Council, chaired by Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, Minister of Foreign Affairs, with Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed as Deputy Chair.
This council aims to manage key national issues related to higher education, private education, and the social sector.
Sheikh Mohammed expressed optimism about the council’s work, emphasizing its importance in supporting the UAE’s families and children. “We wish them success in managing this vital national dossier, which has seen significant transformations in recent years,” he said, according to Economy Middle East.
Preserving the UAE’s Urban Fabric
To honor the UAE’s cultural and architectural identity, the Cabinet endorsed a policy to preserve the country’s modern architectural heritage. This initiative will focus on safeguarding the historical and national significance of urban structures, with 130 sites already identified for preservation, and plans to expand the list to 1,000 sites in the coming years.
The policy is part of a broader effort to ensure that future generations can appreciate the country’s distinctive architectural legacy.
Sheikh Mohammed concluded the Cabinet meeting by reflecting on the UAE’s achievements in 2024, a year marked by economic growth and global competitiveness. The UAE ranked first globally in 223 development indicators and placed in the top five for 444 indices related to business, technology, infrastructure, and tourism.
“A good year for the best people. A good year led by the best President. A good year with the best efforts and the largest, most dedicated national team,” Sheikh Mohammed declared, looking ahead to 2025 with optimism.
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