The Ministry of Finance (MoF) underscored the growing role of digital platforms in shaping government decisions by hosting the “Digital Participation in Government Decision-Making Forum” at Dubai’s Etihad Museum.
The event brought together government leaders, international organisations, private sector representatives, and community members to explore how technology can strengthen collaboration between society and policymakers.
The forum, held under the theme “Partnership, Interaction, Impact,” forms part of the UAE’s strategy to embed community input into public decision-making. It aligns with the country’s “We the UAE 2031” vision and the UAE Centennial 2071, both of which emphasise innovation, sustainability, and people-driven governance.
Opening the discussions, Younis Haji AlKhoori, Undersecretary of the MoF, said digital participation has become a “pivotal tool” that allows individuals to share views and aspirations while enabling government to translate these insights into impactful public policies. He noted that transparency, efficiency, and continuous engagement are essential for financial and policy-related decision-making.
Majed Sultan Al Mesmar, Director-General of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority, added that digital engagement is “a deeply rooted national culture,” citing initiatives such as the Share.UAE platform, which has facilitated more than 1,100 opportunities for public input since 2023. Hackathon UAE, another initiative, has also yielded hundreds of innovative projects influencing government services.
The event featured sessions on global trends in digital participation, the role of artificial intelligence in policymaking, and the importance of inclusive engagement across youth and senior citizens. Speakers highlighted how technology can convert public opinion into actionable insights, boosting both policy effectiveness and trust in government institutions.
By placing citizens at the center of decision-making, the UAE aims to set a global benchmark for digital governance, reinforcing its commitment to building a more inclusive, innovative, and future-ready nation.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
