UAE regulator puts digital transformation front and centre

Today, fast-evolving technologies offer governments an unprecedented opportunity to achieve sustainable development and improve the well-being of their citizens.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is seizing this opportunity through a comprehensive development plan for the next 50 years.

The country’s Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) has taken an important step in advancing the national digital vision. Formerly the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA), we formally updated our identity in April 2021.

Concurrently, we have updated our role to focus on increasing the pace of digital transformation.

The new logo reflects our new TDRA’s long-term future vision as a key national regulator. It symbolizes cutting-edge communication via the image of fibre-optic cables. At the same time, our regulator’s new name and identity reflects simplicity and aspiration to deliver customer happiness.

Enhancing innovation

As per a recent Global Innovation Institute report, the recently-renamed TDRA ranked among the top three innovative entities in the Middle East. The institute has accredited several innovations that our regulatory authority developed and implemented at the national and international level. Leadership in the field of information and communication technology (ICT) depends on original ideas and creativity. These are critical elements of the UAE’s National Agenda 2021. Under that plan, the “United in Knowledge” pillar calls for building a diverse, competitive economy, driven by knowledgeable and innovative Emiratis, as the key to the UAE’s successful long-term development.

TDRA – keen to adopt and launch initiatives that enhance innovation – is leveraging digital transformation to provide round-the-clock government services for everyone in the UAE.

As a next step, in cooperation with Abu Dhabi Digital Authority (ADDA) and Smart Dubai, we recently issued national guidelines for ‘API-first’ business and services. Application Programming Interface (API) is the best way to link multiple customer-service entities from everywhere at any time. The new guidelines will help government and private entities continually update and link their services and smart applications, with close coordination ensuring a better user experience overall.

ICT investment

Other ongoing TDRA initiatives include support for remote working, distance learning, e-commerce, and e-government services across the country. The UAE also aims to enhance the ICT sector and drive digital transformation in developing countries worldwide. The country – represented by TDRA – maintains close cooperation with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), striving to extend logistical and technical support where needed, align digital strategies with sustainable development, lay the foundation for inclusive economic growth, and foster social happiness.

We are proud of the TDRA adding ‘Digital Government’ to its name. We see this as more than a mandate: it is also a challenge that has climbed to the top of our agenda.

Digital government will be crucial going forward. Under the guidance of the UAE’s national leadership, TDRA intends to keep working closely with other government agencies and with partners across the ICT industry, aiming to envision, foster and cultivate a sustainable long-term digital transformation.