In a significant step towards promoting digital transformation and international cooperation, a new partnership agreement was signed between the Government of the United Arab Emirates and the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA). This agreement was formalized during a meeting at the United Nations headquarters in New York, coinciding with the Science, Technology and Innovation for the Sustainable Development Goals Forum.

The UAE was represented by H.E. Eng. Majed Sultan Al Mesmar, the Director General of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA). This partnership aims to serve as a practical model for implementing the principles of the Global Digital Compact, focusing on inclusive digital development across the region.

During the discussions, the participants addressed the implementation mechanisms for the agreement and the importance of capacity-building efforts. They highlighted the need to leverage global best practices alongside the UAE’s successful digital government experiences to achieve regional digital integration effectively. This collaboration is expected to support digital transformation initiatives throughout the Arab region, aligning with local needs and the Sustainable Development Goals.

The partnership is seen as a catalyst for enhancing regional dialogue, knowledge exchange, and policy development, in line with the vision of the Global Digital Compact. The UAE’s digital initiatives are positioned as an inspiring model for other countries in the region as they pursue their own digital transformation journeys.

The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) plays a crucial role in regulating and developing the telecommunications and information technology sector in the UAE. The authority is dedicated to driving digital transformation at the national level by fostering an advanced regulatory environment that supports innovation and investment while ensuring the provision of sustainable telecommunications services.

TDRA’s responsibilities include enhancing digital infrastructure, empowering the telecommunications sector, and improving the quality of digital services in the UAE. The authority aims to position the UAE as a global hub for digital innovation, aligning its strategies with the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 and the UAE Centennial 2071 Agenda.