Ministry of Economy and Tourism Advances Zero Bureaucracy through Digital Transformation and AI Integration
The Ministry of Economy and Tourism has successfully organised the second Zero Bureaucracy Forum in Dubai, highlighting its ongoing efforts to transform the digital services ecosystem and boost operational efficiency through the adoption of advanced technologies and artificial intelligence (AI).
With an overarching aim to simplify procedures for both business owners and individuals, the Ministry underlined the importance of enhancing collaboration with public and private sector partners. These collaborative efforts are vital in driving the Zero Government Bureaucracy Programme, an ambitious initiative positioning the UAE as a global leader in effective and responsive governance.
The event drew the participation of influential figures such as Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism; Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade; alongside representatives from key federal and local entities, including Mohamed Bin Taliah (Chief of Government Services in the UAE Government), Eng. Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Muwaiji (Chairman of ACCI), Badreya Al Maidoor (Assistant Undersecretary at the Ministry of Economy and Tourism), Marwan Al Zaabi (Assistant Undersecretary at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment), and Fatima Al Naqbi (Acting Assistant Undersecretary at the Ministry of Finance).
Bin Touq stated:
“The launch of the Zero Government Bureaucracy Programme reflects the UAE government’s comprehensive vision to shape the future and simplify the lives of citizens, residents, and visitors. This is being achieved through the development of advanced government services and a national competitive model that delivers simpler, faster, and more efficient procedures by global standards. These efforts support the growth of economic sectors, create a dynamic business environment, and enhance the quality of life across society.”
He further highlighted the Ministry’s strides, noting:
“The Ministry of Economy and Tourism has made significant progress in achieving the objectives of this leading national programme. This has been realised through an integrated framework focused on delivering fast, user-friendly digital services, stimulating the business environment, supporting private sector growth, and boosting economic activity across the UAE. At the same time, we remain committed to removing unnecessary obstacles and procedures that may hinder business operations, ensuring the programme delivers a comprehensive and sustainable impact.”
Reflecting on the digital shift, he added:
“The Ministry was one of the first government entities to streamline procedures and facilitate services and transactions digitally, particularly during the pandemic in 2020. The Ministry took unprecedented steps to advance full digital transformation, guided by a comprehensive vision for the shift to the digital sphere at that time. Just three years after the pandemic, all services became accessible through the Ministry’s website and smart application, marking a significant move to reduce bureaucratic complexities and enhance the efficiency of various business and economic activities.”
He affirmed the commitment to the long-term vision, stating:
“Guided by the directives of our wise leadership, we are continuing our concerted efforts with a spirit of teamwork to make zero bureaucracy a national priority. This will enhance government performance and help deliver world’s best services marked by flexibility and competitiveness. It also aligns with the objectives of the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision, which seeks to position the UAE as the most leading and distinctive nation by the next decade.”
Eng. Mohamed bin Taliah underlined the importance of integration during the second phase of the programme, stating:
“The second phase of the Zero Bureaucracy Programme focuses on achieving zero digital bureaucracy, enhancing integration among government entities to streamline procedures, accelerate information exchange, and reduce routine in service delivery. He noted that the UAE Government continues to advance the zero-bureaucracy approach and drive innovation, placing people at the centre of policies, initiatives, projects, and services to ensure a sustainable quality of life and build a society that is better prepared and more adaptable for the future.”
He also remarked:
“The second Zero Bureaucracy Forum, organised by the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, reflects the government’s commitment to sustaining the momentum in the development of innovative solutions as well as elevating and designing services according to the evolving needs of customers. This contributes to creating more seamless and efficient experiences, thus supporting the efforts to streamline procedures and ensure zero bureaucracy across different areas of work.”
During the forum, the Ministry presented new digital services currently under development and highlighted significant achievements of the Zero Bureaucracy Programme. Discussions explored future visions and innovative practices for improving government service effectiveness and delivering streamlined experiences to all stakeholders.
A key outcome of the event was the launch of the “Excellence in Leadership” initiative, reinforcing the Ministry’s dedication to placing people at the centre of its priorities. This new initiative is set to enhance the quality of life for all citizens and residents, amplify opportunities for productivity and creativity, and particularly empower SMEs as a focus area in the programme’s second phase.
The forum also celebrated the graduation of a new cohort from the Digital Service Design Course, aimed at preparing participants to design innovative digital services following the Government Services Development Methodology 2.0. This approach delivers seamless digital experiences and strengthens the pool of qualified national professionals who will lead the UAE’s drive toward zero bureaucracy.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
