UAE Cabinet Approves National Cybersecurity Strategy, API-First Policy

Photo: Dubai Government Media Office

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, led a UAE Cabinet meeting at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi. The meeting was attended by several key leaders, including His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister; H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai; H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance; H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior; and H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel  

During the meeting, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid highlighted the review of one of the UAE's most ambitious infrastructure projects — the Etihad High-Speed Passenger Rail. This railway, designed to run at a speed of 350 km per hour, is expected to transform travel across the country. He noted that the project will not only improve travel between emirates but also contribute over AED 145 billion to the UAE's economy over the next 50 years. The Etihad High-Speed Train aims to strengthen national connectivity and build a world-class transportation system.

Another major decision was the approval of the UAE Logistics Integration Council. This council will bring together important federal and local organizations, including ports, railways, customs, and transport services, to make the UAE a stronger global trade hub. The logistics sector, valued at AED 129 billion in 2023, is targeted to grow beyond AED 200 billion in the next seven years.

Sheikh Mohammed also launched the UAE Government Innovation Month, emphasizing the nation’s leadership in innovation. He shared that the Mohammed bin Rashid Centre for Government Innovation has shared best practices with over 30 countries worldwide. The government will continue to prioritize innovation to improve public services and business development.

The Cabinet approved the National Cybersecurity Strategy to ensure the UAE remains among the world's leaders in digital security. This strategy focuses on governance, protection, innovation, and partnerships to create a safe and resilient digital environment.

A new phase of the UAE Strategy for Talent Attraction and Retention 2031 was also launched. This strategy aims to attract skilled workers in sectors like technology, renewable energy, healthcare, aviation, and creative industries. The UAE, already recognized as a top global destination for career opportunities, seeks to strengthen its position as a global hub for innovation.

The Cabinet reviewed progress on the National Youth Agenda 2031 and the UAE Circular Economy Agenda 2031. Efforts to rehabilitate degraded land have resulted in the improvement of 378.2 square kilometers of land, with innovative AI-based soil monitoring systems now in place. Significant progress was also made in supporting local supply chains and promoting recycling in consumer goods.

During the session, updates were shared on the implementation of the National Strategy to Combat Desertification 2022-2030. Key achievements include rehabilitating 1,800 hectares of degraded land and maintaining stable carbon levels across 98.2% of UAE lands.

In another key decision, the Cabinet approved the UAE’s accession to the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA). This move is aimed at fostering international cooperation and enhancing efforts to attract global investments.

The Cabinet also examined updates on several committees, including the Infrastructure and Housing Council and the Economic Integration Committee. Additionally, the Cabinet approved resolutions on administrative penalties for violations of federal accounting and auditing regulations and ratified 33 international agreements, including tax-related agreements with Qatar, and Kuwait, and cooperation agreements with Jordan and Australia.

The Cabinet reviewed preparations for major upcoming events, such as the United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, the International Camel Forum 2025, and the 7th International Conference on Applied Linguistics.

In a significant technological development, the Cabinet approved the API-First Policy to enhance integration between government and private sector digital services. The UAE National Geospatial Data Policy was also endorsed to improve data coordination and decision-making through better use of geographic information.
Additionally, the Cabinet announced the issuance of guidelines for bi-directional charging in the energy sector. This move is expected to support the shift toward clean energy and maintain grid stability.

To further boost the sports sector, the reconstitution of the Sports Coordination Council was approved, chaired by Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports. The council will work on strategic plans to promote sports and support initiatives nationwide.

The Cabinet’s decisions reflect the UAE’s ongoing efforts to drive innovation, enhance infrastructure, strengthen cybersecurity, and position itself as a leading global hub for trade, technology, and investment.