Post by : Badri Ariffin

The United Arab Emirates commemorates its 54th Eid Al Etihad this year, symbolizing a notable path of development, creativity, and international collaboration. The nation is firmly establishing itself as a frontrunner in diplomacy, economic progress, humanitarian contributions, and sustainability initiatives.

Global Diplomatic Leadership
In 2025, the UAE has been instrumental in addressing both regional and global issues. It has actively pursued resolutions in Gaza, voiced disapproval of Sudan’s civil unrest, and advocated for a civilian-led resolution. The country facilitated discussions between India and Pakistan, worked towards de-escalation between Israel and Iran, and bolstered opposition to recent Israeli actions in Qatar.

Additionally, peace-building efforts between Armenia and Azerbaijan were advanced, and the UAE continued to mediate between Russia and Ukraine, successfully completing 17 negotiation sessions that facilitated the exchange of 4,641 prisoners. International dignitaries frequently traveled to the UAE, which maintained significant participation in major forums like G20, BRICS 2025, and COP30.

Economic Growth and Investment
The UAE’s economic landscape is thriving, projected to expand by 4.8% according to the IMF. Non-oil foreign trade hit AED1.7 trillion in the first half of 2025, marking a 24.5% increase. The federal budget for 2026 was unveiled at AED92.4 billion, in conjunction with the National Investment Strategy 2031.

Banking asset totals reached AED5.199 trillion, with credit growth climbing to AED2.478 trillion. A new initiative, the "UAE Global Centre of Trade," is set to draw in 1,000 international businesses, further solidifying the UAE’s role as a global trading hub.

Tourism, Culture, and Major Projects
Tourism infused AED257.3 billion into the GDP, constituting 13% of national output, with more than 16.1 million visitors welcomed in the year’s first half. Cultural, entertainment, and leisure projects thrived with the launches of Disney Abu Dhabi, Therme Dubai, Al Tay Hills in Sharjah, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, and the ARTE Museum Dubai.

Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais broke ground as Secretary-General of the UN World Tourism Organization, underlining the UAE’s rising stature in global tourism leadership.

Legislative and Technological Progress
In 2025, the UAE witnessed a transformation of its legislative framework with the establishment of new laws and authorities, such as the National Anti-Narcotics Authority, Federal Authority for Ambulance and Civil Defence, and revisions to the Personal Status Law. The adoption of AI-driven legislative systems and the presentation of strategies for cybersecurity, talent attraction, reduced bureaucracy, volunteering, and family growth were also introduced under the 2031 agenda.

Artificial intelligence and digital innovations surged with 97% adoption of AI tools and over 450,000 programmers nationwide. The UAE-US AI Campus was officially opened with a capacity of 5 gigawatts, complemented by substantial collaborations with France and Google, in addition to a $1 billion global initiative supporting AI projects in Africa.

Commitment to Sustainability and Humanitarian Aid
Environmental responsibility remained at the forefront, including deep-sea exploration, the extension of Abu Dhabi’s nature reserves to 20%, and the inauguration of new solar, hydrogen, and wind initiatives.

The UAE amplified its humanitarian impact, providing $1.46 billion in global assistance. Over AED9.4 billion supported Gaza, which included 100,000 tonnes of supplies and the evacuation of 3,000 injured individuals. Sudan received AED3 billion over the course of two years, while aid continued to flow to Yemen and numerous other crisis-affected regions.

Infrastructure and Urban Expansion
Significant infrastructure endeavors advanced with a high-speed rail connection between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, a AED170 billion national road strategy, water and energy enhancements, along with housing development across the nation, showcasing the UAE’s vision for sustainable urban expansion.

As the UAE observes Eid Al Etihad, 2025 stands out as a pivotal year that highlights the nation's dedication to global diplomacy, economic resilience, technological advancement, and humanitarian responsibility.

#Global News