MoF participates in UAE Innovation Week to support National Innovation Strategy and UAE Vision 2021

In line with the declaration ofHis Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of UAE that 2015 is the ‘Year of Innovation’, and the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai to launch ‘UAE Innovation Week’ from 22-28 November 2015; the Ministry of Finance (MoF) announced its participation in ‘UAE Innovation Week’, which it will do through a number events and activities.

MoF’s participation in ‘UAE Innovation Week’ reflects its support of the National Innovation Strategy which in turn contributes to the UAE Vision 2021 and national efforts to position the UAE’s Government as a global leader in development and innovation. This can only be achieved by promoting a culture of innovation in different government practices through a well-established methodology that enhances government institutional work. MoF is committed to establishing an environment suitable for innovation within the UAE and in supporting the UAE’s vision in this regard.

The Ministry’s participation during the ‘UAE Innovation Week’ will focus on motivating the public and the community to share their ideas and suggestions and to take part in innovative development initiatives with ministries and UAE government entities.

The National Innovation Strategy promotes innovation and applied research in different areas and industries. These include renewable and clean energy, air and sea transport, urban logistics, and the educational sector; by providing students with new skills, as well as offering health and therapeutic services with advanced equipment, encouraging the development of pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, seeking innovative solutions of water scarcity, research and technology, as well as developing technologies in communications, satellites and applied space technology research.

HE Saeed Rashid Al Yateem, Assistant Undersecretary of Budget and Revenue at MoF, emphasised MoF’s commitment and efforts to adopt a creative and innovative culture as an approach in government work and a to support the National Innovation Strategy. This approach is key in raising the efficiency of government work and maximising service revenues as well as supporting government entities in achieving their goals in an effective and efficient manner.

HE Al Yateem said: “Innovation is a powerful way to generate and enhance competitiveness. It actually requires advanced skills in creativity, developing solutions, managing projects and leading change. Our participation in ‘UAE Innovation Week’ aims to support contributions from business owners in both the private and government sector as well as ensuring that customers are benefiting from government services, in order to guarantee the participation of all parties in the innovation process. This is key in achieving growth in different avenues across the UAE.”

MoF stands will be placed in Yas Mall -Abu Dhabi, and Mirdif City Centre in Dubai, displaying innovative tools, including games that encourage young people to use their imagination and to participate in innovation initiatives across different sectors listed by the National Innovation Strategy.

As a part of its effort to adopt the most modern systems available, e-Dirham services and innovative apps will be displayed during the UAE Innovation Week, including the e-wallet and e-vouchers to pay services fees. The two mentioned tools were launched in GITEX Technology Week 2015.