Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: THE UAE Cabinet has approved the creation of a National Policy for Economic Clusters to boost sectoral capabilities, expand the country’s access to global markets, and contribute more than Dh30 billion annually to the national GDP (gross domestic product). The policy — that is also expected to increase the value of the country’s foreign trade by Dh15 billion over the next seven years — will cover key sectors, including financial services, tourism and hospitality, space, communications and data analytics, and food.
Clusters of industries, services, and institutions with shared characteristics across the UAE will be developed at both the macro and sectoral levels in specific geographic areas while leveraging the unique strengths of each emirate. The policy will also tap into the country’s natural resources, geographic location, business environment, integrated links, leading companies, and advanced economic sectors.
During the Cabinet meeting on September 17 in Abu Dhabi chaired Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice- President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the UAE Cabinet also approved the agenda for the UAE Government Annual Meeting. It is scheduled to take place from November 4–6 in Abu Dhabi with the participation of 500 senior government officials.
“This year’s agenda will focus on education, healthcare, family and national identity, economy, and applications of artificial intelligence. The objective is to strengthen a unified national team spirit and further enhance the competitiveness of government services, institutions, and strategies,” Sheikh Mohammed said.
The UAE Cabinet also approved a comprehensive package of national cybersecurity policies aimed at strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure. The updated framework introduces a unified approach to information security, aligning with international best practices and effective protection against emerging cyber threats.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also said, “The Cabinet approved the establishment of the UAE Council for Integrative Medicine, chaired by Sheikha Salama bint Tahnoon bin Mohammed Al Nahyan.
The Cabinet also approved the updated National Plan for Reducing Aviation Sector Emissions, in line with the UAE’s global environmental commitments. Environmental protection remains a core pillar of our sustainable development journey.
The UAE Cabinet approved the ratification and signing of 85 international agreements and memoranda of understanding with governments, global organisations, and international entities. These agreements cover investment protection, trade facilitation, aviation services, financial cooperation, food safety, AI applications, digital transformation, and regulatory collaboration across key sectors.
The Cabinet also approved the hosting of 12 major international and regional events, including the World Maritime Day 2025 Parallel Event, the International Conference on AI in Sports.
