Dubai Silicon Oasis lays out road map for technology firms

Dubai Silicon Oasis is an integrated free zone technology park.

Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA)'s new strategy, based on UAE Vision 2021 and Dubai Plan 2021, will provide an enabling operational framework for government entities in Dubai and reflect the UAE's post-oil economy vision.
This was stated by DSOA chairman Shaikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum after approving the DSOA 2021 Strategy. DSOA is the regulatory body for Dubai Silicon Oasis, which is an integrated free zone technology park.
"The DSOA 2021 Strategy outlines a road map for the future of Dubai Silicon Oasis to lead its growth and development. We are confident that such initiatives help the UAE set the stage for its post-oil economic growth," said Shaikh Ahmed.
He added: "In its role as a leading driver of growth and progress in Dubai, DSOA will utilise its strategy to build on the four pillars and achieve the overall goals outlined by our wise leaders to make DSO the destination of choice for technology-based organisations. We are also committed to supporting entrepreneurs and start-ups over the coming years through the implementation of integrated policies that will contribute to the development of their businesses and in return consolidate our own growth. We aim to provide the right environment for innovation, creativity and outstanding performance."
He noted that the strategy will support the technology sector in developing and enhancing its contribution to Dubai's GDP. It is built around four main pillars that will boost growth and development at the high-tech park - a smart city, an advanced technology hub, happiest people and a desirable society.
He pointed out that innovation is an essential component of the DSOA 2021 Strategy that reinforces the UAE's focus on sustainable development towards shaping a knowledge economy and emerging as one of the most innovative countries in the world.
He added that the initiatives and policies of the DSOA 2021 Strategy focused on building the capabilities of the UAE in the technology sector and served to encourage entrepreneurship, provide employment opportunities and career development for UAE nationals.
He said: "Through the first pillar, DSOA will aim to develop a smart, integrated and connected city that optimises its resources and ensures excellence across the built environment by leveraging technology and innovation as well as focusing on good governance. The second pillar reiterates DSO's commitment to its existing vision and mission and to consolidate its leading position as the preferred investment destination for foreign capital - specifically for companies working in the technology industry - and as the most business-friendly free zone in Dubai for leading international technology companies, entrepreneurs and start-ups."
"With the third pillar, DSOA seeks to increase employee innovation, experience and happiness to ensure that staff members remain confident about their future and take pride in their jobs - this pillar seeks to instill a corporate culture that values the human element within an organisation. Lastly, through the fourth pillar, DSOA seeks to create a transparent and secure environment that preserves the rights of individuals and institutions," he said.
The previous plan worked on establishing the park as one of the significant hubs in attracting local and regional individuals and organisations in the technology field and developing its role as a prominent supporter of innovation and entrepreneurship. 
The DSOA 2021 Strategy consolidates earlier achievements and takes bigger steps towards realising the vision and mission of the park through promoting technology-based industries, facilitating their work and boosting research and development efforts.
- abdulbasit@khaleejtimes.com