UAE Projects of the 50: First set of plans revealed

Dubai - The projects are set to usher in the next phase of growth for the country

The UAE leadership has announced a slew of grand projects today — the first of 50 new projects that will usher in the next phase of growth for the country.

The launch of the ‘bold new series of national strategic projects’ was jointly announced by the Ruler of Dubai and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi last Thursday.

The first set of plans were revealed today at the Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel, three months ahead of the UAE’s 50th National Day celebrations on December 2.

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Principles of the 50

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, took to social media on Sunday to share the 'Principles of the 50'.

The charter paves the strategic roadmap for the country's new era of political, economic and social development.

Read full text here.

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, also hailed the charter as a guide to "build a sustainable economy, harness resources for a more prosperous society, and foster diplomatic relations for global peace and stability".

Relaxation in residency laws

Widows and divorced women will soon be able to remain longer in the UAE without visa restrictions.

Instead of a grace period of 30 days, they will be able to continue in the country for a whole year, confirmed Al Zeyoudi.

New 'data law' unveiled

Omar Sultan Al Olama, the Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work, unveiled the ‘Data Law’.

It is the first federal law designed in partnership with major international technology companies.

The law gives individuals the freedom to control the way their personal information is used, stored and shared. It works in a manner that supports preserving the privacy of individuals and institutions in the country.

Temporary work visa scheme for some students

Students aged 15 and above will soon be allowed to work in the UAE under a temporary visa scheme.

This came as Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE's Minister of State for Foreign Trade, spoke to reporters on the sidelines of the UAE Projects of 50 event, which was held to announce the first set of plans under the initiative.

The new provision for students will allow them to gain some experience, while adding value to the UAE economy.

100 lighthouse projects in priority sectors

Sarah Al Amiri, Minister of State for Advanced Technology, stated that 100 lighthouse projects have been launched in priority sectors. The UAE will look to invest Dh25 billion in the industry over the next 10 years.

"We are ushering in the next phase of the fourth industrial revolution," she said. "It is a comprehensive programme for the adoption of technology. We are fostering an environment that will ensure continuous growth.

A network of champion companies have been launched, as well as a Readiness index that will provide companies with a roadmap on how to progress on the technology front.

'Attract 100 coders every day'

Over the coming weeks, the UAE will deploy the country's data law. The UAE aims to attract 100 coders every single day, said Omar Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence.

"We want to be home to the best talent — one of the Silicon Valleys of the world," he added. "We want to export technology to the world and have the UAE's data law become the gold standard for the world."

The UAE has offered its coveted Golden Visas to 100,000 of the best coders from around the globe. The aim is to build a community of coders in the country, said Olama. "Emiratis will be a part of this community and upskilling them is the current need."

What's more, the UAE also aims to have the highest ratio of female coders per capita in the next five years, he said. Through this initiative, the UAE will shape the global future of the digital economy.

UAE ‘green visa’ holders can sponsor sons till they are 25

Green visa holders can sponsor their sons’ visas till they turn 25. Usually, sons can be sponsored only till they turn 18.

Green visa holders can also sponsor their parents.

“The green visa is for entrepreneurs and pioneers, among other professions,” said Al Zeyoudi.

While a resident usually has a grace period of 30 days to exit the country after his/her visa has been cancelled, the green visa would allow them to remain in the country for 90-180 days.

Green, freelance visas announced

Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, has announced the launch of a 'green visa'. He also announced a freelance visa.

Green visas are work permits with residency for pioneers, entrepreneurs and other professionals.