KT edit: New UAE Cabinet spells dynamism and digital progress

The plan is to cut through the clutter for a new role model of governance that is ready to face any future

Governance in the UAE can be a restless process that is in harmony with the digital future. It is reflective of the nation that will settle for nothing less than the best. Such restlessness can be transformative as it pushes administrative boundaries while raising the bar for every section of society. The dynamism in government is palpable and is effective to a fault in a country that welcomes over 200 nationalities and has a larger worldview. Simply put, the UAE's leadership is inspired by a global vision that makes the government unique and ahead of the times.
Covid-19 has forced leaders to think of new solutions to global challenges and the Cabinet restructuring on Sunday set the template for the country to chart out a strong and smart recovery after the damage caused by the pandemic. The UAE saw this great disruption coming and was prepared for the accompanying economic recession. A greater depression has been foretold and the effort is to mitigate the damage. Change is a constant that is written into the smart government code. Disruption drives it, and the results are evident from the better services being offered to the people. Smart, digital, yet grounded, could sum up the thought process that drives the government and the Cabinet. Ministries are set annual targets and the leadership monitors progress. There is regular review and feedback with high levels of transparency and innovation. The UAE government thinks on its feet and gets work done in a hurry. Impatience is a virtue, believe His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.
The new UAE Cabinet is agile and has the right blend of youth, experience, and talent. Some ministries have been merged and a new Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology has been formed which shows the seriousness the leadership accords to the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Three ministers to lead the Ministry of Economy is another significant development. The thrust is on a digital future after Sheikh Mohammed had spelt out the objectives in a summit last month. A nimble government will provide simple governance with 50 per cent of government service centres going online in two years' time. Fifty per cent of federal departments will also be merged with ministries. The plan is to cut through the clutter for a new role model of governance that is ready to face any future.