Charms of a progressive nation

The UAE has set impressive milestones that stand as inspiration to other countries

Celebrating 46 years of unification initiated by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE continues to march towards excellence. From improving infrastructure to introducing stringent laws for animal welfare, the UAE is truly a nation that sets inspiring goals.
As each emirate gears up to welcome the nation's achievements, here is a look at some of many factors that is making the country impressive:
Gender equality
No stranger to the topic of equality, the UAE has always been a forerunner in women's rights that continues to inspire not only the Middle East region, but also the rest of the world. According to the Global Gender Gap Report 2017, it ranks first in literacy rate and second in wage equality. Furthermore, women are actively part of the political fabric, dominating essential roles as Ministers of State, as well as a big part of the defence sector who are dedicated to protect its land, sea and sky. While military service is optional, a number of women have proudly displayed their capabilities in months-long training sessions. The UAE is also home to the region's first female military college, Khawla bint Al Azwar Military School. From a business perspective, women are notable entrepreneurs, as half of SMEs in the UAE are initiated and led by women. Fun fact: the UAE has its own Gender Balance Council further securing its spot as a nation that puts women on equal footing.
Animal welfare
The UAE takes on strict laws against animal cruelty in order to ensure the safety and well-being of all creatures. According to the Federal Law 18, anyone found guilty of animal abuse, buying and selling as well as hunting will be subject to a hefty fine of Dh200,000 and a year in prison. A draft law was also announced in June this year is underway that could include imprisonment for life as well as fine of Dh1 million. 
In addition, the first dedicated session on the topic took place in November last year in the form of National Conference of Animal Welfare in the UAE that gathered participants to discuss current challenges and promote coordination among authorities towards better animal care. Dubai Municipality, in particular, is active in the protection sphere, urging residents to report any sightings of abuse, while non-profit support groups such as Bin Kitty Collective and Friends of Animals Dubai, to name a few, are taking initiative to foster as well as assist in Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) campaigns alongside veterinary clinics. 
Smart city
From establishing an e-government to offering exclusive digital services, the UAE is paving the route to become a smart nation. SmartDubai will notably have a value-added impact that could contribute about Dh10.4 billion to the economy by the year 2021. The concept is divided into six categories, namely economy, mobility and infrastructure, ICT, environment, governance and living to successfully integrate connectivity and add value to the UAE's Vision 2021. Dubai is also the first to introduce the world's first smart police service centre. Located at City Walk, it offers 27 key services - from handling traffic incidents to reporting crimes - as well as 33 automated sub-services 24/7, bringing convenience and efficiency to both residents and the security force. 
In addition, Dubai introduced the Happiness Meter as part of a directive by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to make the city the happiest on earth. Aside from measurement gauges placed in a variety of public and private sectors to collect feedback, the interaction is meant to improve customer experiences across various industries and boost the overall happiness level of residents.
People of determination 
A strong believer that no one should be left behind, the UAE has been working its way to fully integrate people with disabilities into society. This year, a national policy to empower people with special needs was introduced that foremost addresses them as 'people of determination'. An advisory council is also underway that would be dedicated to setting standards to improve national policy, while keeping people of determination in mind. These strategies cover various topics, such as health and rehabilitation, education, employment, security, sports, family empowerment as well as culture and lifestyle. 
In collaboration with public and private institutions, supportive policies are being drafted to offer equal opportunities to people of determination in a formal environment, just as any other individual. The UAE is also an active participant in special events such as the Paralympics, where athletes gather to showcase skills and sportsmanship across regional and international powerlifting, archery and shooting to table tennis and swimming competitions. 
Furthermore, the country initiates a number of campaigns and programmes that target all community segments and create a better understanding for those with special needs. Newer generation of students are also working special mobile apps and technology to assist people of determination across various aspects of life.  
- farhana@khaleejtimes.com