Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed: Dubai Government services will be transformed

Deputy Ruler of Dubai says operating models will become simpler and more effective

A flying taxi undergoing trials in Dubai. The city is leading the way in trying new technology. Satish Kumar / Reuters

Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed said government services in Dubai will change radically to serve customers more effectively.

The Deputy Ruler of Dubai said an increased focus on innovation will make it easier for people to access the services they need.

He made the comments at a meeting on Monday with task forces created to enhance the emirate's services.

Central to Dubai's progress is the city's smart transformation through the use of technology to improve the quality of life for residents.

Dubai has been implementing such measures for years, including public Wi-Fi, smart power grids and the use of technologies including blockchain – a type of online ledger – to make transactions easier.

Sheikh Maktoum said instilling a strong sense of partnership and team spirit among government departments is critical in achieving this.

"We are working together to explore new opportunities and provide new mechanisms for government service delivery, keeping in mind the current and future needs of customers," Sheikh Maktoum said.

"The next phase will see a radical transformation in the operating models of government services. There will be an increased focus on innovation aimed at simplifying the customer journey and integrating the delivery of key services as part of reinforcing Dubai’s status as a preferred global lifestyle and investment destination.”

Abu Dhabi and Dubai, meanwhile, lead the Middle East for a second consecutive year in a global ranking of smart cities – outpacing cities such as Tokyo and Beijing.

In results released last month, Abu Dhabi jumped 14 positions to 42nd out of 109 cities in the 2020 Smart City Index by The Institute for Management Development, just ahead of Dubai, which climbed two positions to 43.