Business
Sheikh Mohammed Reflects on UAE’s ‘Historic’ 2024 Achievements, Welcomes 2025 with Optimism
As 2024 drew to a close, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, reflected on the Emirates' remarkable achievements over the past year and expressed optimism for 2025.
In a message shared on social media, Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the UAE's progress across multiple sectors, stating:
"The year 2024 has passed, thank God, and the Emirates has achieved historic numbers in all its indicators. We welcome 2025 with greater optimism, greater ambitions, and a greater determination to continue the journey of growth and prosperity."
Key Milestones of 2024
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Economic Growth:
- The UAE achieved a record 200,000 newly registered companies for the first time in its history.
- Non-oil GDP reached AED 660 billion in the first half of 2024.
- Foreign trade hit AED 2.3 trillion in the first nine months of the year.
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Global Leadership:
- The UAE ranked seventh globally on the Competitive Power Index and fifth on the Artificial Intelligence Index.
- The nation maintained leadership in 223 global indexes.
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International Engagement:
- The Emirates signed 140 international deals with 55 countries.
- Over 1,300 new government decisions were implemented, supported by five million hours dedicated to legislative development.
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Tourism and Connectivity:
- A total of 150 million visitors passed through the country’s airports and ports, reflecting a robust tourism sector.
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Sustainability and Aid:
- The UAE launched 87 decisions and initiatives supporting sustainability efforts.
- Foreign aid since the union was established reached AED 360 billion by mid-2024.
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Technology and Innovation:
- The country executed 40 projects and initiatives in artificial intelligence and technology.
A Vision for 2025
Sheikh Mohammed’s message emphasized optimism and ambition, reaffirming the UAE's commitment to growth, prosperity, and global leadership.
In a festive gesture, UAE leaders, including President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, conveyed greetings for 2025 to world leaders, wishing health and prosperity for their nations. Similar messages were sent by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court.