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UAE’s infrastructure ideal for m-Govt shift, says survey

A survey conducted at the Government Summit on the requirements and expectations of the customers from smart government services revealed that the UAE, with its infrastructure and advanced multimedia, has the ideal environment for transformation to the smart government.

The survey that covered 1,100 Emiratis and expatriates, showed that most of the respondents were satisfied with the offered government services via mobile phones — indicating the success of a shift to the smart government.

The survey was conducted as per the directives of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

The survey results serve as a guideline for the customers’ needs, through a random sample representing all segments in the UAE — office employees, businessmen, investors, students and housewives. The government wants to meet the needs of each and every segment to ensure that they are offered the services easily and round-the-clock through the optimal use of hi-tech apps. About 93 % of the respondents were satisfied with the m-Government services available at present, an indication of the awareness on these services.

Most of the respondents showed inclination towards using government services on mobile phones, while some said despite their satisfaction with the technology, they preferred to approach the government entity concerned. They, however, expressed interest in smart applications, especially those related to traffic services.

Suggested smart services

Paying traffic fines, issuing or renewing ID cards, paying utility bills, issuing or renewing driver’s license, paying for services related to visas, issuing or renewing health cards, and paying parking tickets are the top required m-Government services.

Among the list of government entities, 65% of the respondents said they want the Emirates Identity Authority (Eida) to provide smart services, while 60% want the Ministry of Interior services. About 54% gave the nod for the Federal Electricity and Water Authority, 51% for the Ministry of Health and 32% for the Ministry of Labour and 21% for the Ministry of Education. Of the smart channels available, 73% said they prefer SMS, followed by websites on mobile phones and smart applications.

malzarooni@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE