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UAE, Microsoft join forces for smart gov't projects

Xinhua, January 4, 2016 Adjust font size:

United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Microsoft Corporation are discussing plans to push forward the country's projects in the field of smart government services, state news agency WAM reported.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received here on Monday the CEO of Microsoft Corporation Satya Narayana Nadella to discuss the UAE's plans.

Sheikh Mohammed discussed the UAE's plans to utilise the latest and most efficient technology solutions in the government sector to enhance services and improve government performance with the aim of furthering the UAE's growth and progress and achieving national development objectives.

According to studies by the World Economic Forum, the Gulf Arab state, a major oil supplier, is the most advanced country in the Middle East and North Africa in relation to e-governance and smart government services.

UAE residents can leave and enter the UAE through biometric passports though smart gates at the airports and pay their utility or document fees with their smart phones.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his appreciation for Microsoft's role in the global information and communication technology sector.

Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the long-standing cooperation between the UAE and major technology developers and providers, including Microsoft.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella praised the UAE's approach towards development and the leadership's vision to implement the latest technology and communication solutions.

Nadella thanked the UAE's leadership for providing a supportive environment for businesses and foreign investments. He said the cooperation between Dubai and Microsoft goes back 15 years to the beginnings of the technology free zone Dubai Internet City which is home of Microsoft's regional office. Mr.

Nadella, who has been Microsoft's CEO since February 2014, affirmed the American blue chip firm's keenness to explore new opportunities that will increase cooperation in the coming years.

On October 17 last year, Sheikh Mohammed issued the Dubai Data Law which will allow the private sector to share government data.

Dubai Data Law will create opportunities for collaboration, innovation and entrepreneurship between government and non-government entities, tweeted then Sheikh Mohammed.

The law intends to progress Dubai's plans to become a "smart city," said Sheikh Mohammed.

Dubai aims to integrate its online services in accordance with the Dubai Smart City initiative, which was launched in February this year with the goal of the UAE sheikhdom to become a smart city by 2021. Endit