1. "Plant the Emirates" Initiative
In a push to boost local agriculture and enhance food production, Dubai’s Ruler has launched the ‘Plant the Emirates’ initiative program, alongside the approval of the National Agricultural Centre’s establishment.
Building on the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed, the initiative focuses on planting more trees, increasing the number of farms, and reducing agricultural waste. True to its name, ‘Plant the Emirates’ will collaborate with institutions nationwide, including federal and local government bodies, municipal teams, private sector organisations, and community members.
Operating under a unified identity, the programme will promote crops and agricultural products through events, campaigns, and exhibitions. Additionally, volunteer initiatives and competitions for students and the public will be organised to further engage the community.
2. Biodiversity Sites Project
During the recent cabinet meeting, nine key biodiversity sites were identified across the UAE, including the Yasat Marine Protected Area in Abu Dhabi and the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve in Dubai. Among these, the UAE became the first country to have globally recognized sites for the biodiversity of Arabian gazelles, specifically the Arabian Sand Gazelle and the Arabian Oryx.
In addition, the UAE identified two globally significant sites for dugongs, also known as sea cows, marking the first of their kind in the Middle East. Furthermore, three key sites of global importance were pinpointed for endemic species of gecko.
This initiative aims to significantly expand the percentage of protected areas in key biodiversity sites, increasing coverage from 37.59% to 98.13%. It will also elevate the marine protected area index from 48.61% to 98.17% and the terrestrial protected area index from 51.55% to 98.08%.
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3. Economic Partnerships
New legislation was introduced to govern the trade of plastic scrap and raw materials, and the use of recycled materials in the consumer goods sector. Additionally, technical regulations were established to manage the use of food waste, such as oils, as fuel for vehicles, in line with broader efforts to promote biofuel usage.
In support of fair trade, the Cabinet also ratified the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the Republic of Mauritius. This initiative aims to strengthen long-term economic cooperation, increase trade flows, and reduce or eliminate tariffs on 97% of goods and products.
4. Strengthening Financial Security
As financial criminals and scammers target society, the UAE continues to enforce robust policies to combat these threats. The Cabinet approved the restructuring of the National Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Committee, now chaired by the Governor of the Central Bank. This committee will develop strategies to fight financial crimes, assess national risks, promote information sharing, and represent the UAE internationally.
In addition, the Cabinet restructured the Higher Committee for Consumer Protection, led by the Minister of Economy. This committee will focus on shaping consumer protection policies, reviewing reports from relevant authorities, and launching initiatives to enhance public awareness of consumer rights and responsibilities.
5. Global Engagements & Cooperative Initiatives
The UAE is taking significant steps in global engagement by approving its accession to the 1959 Antarctic Treaty, which mandates that the land be used exclusively for peaceful purposes and encourages international scientific collaboration. Additionally, the UAE has joined the Arctic Council as an observer, fostering cooperation with Arctic nations.
The Cabinet also approved an extradition treaty with Sweden and established a Global Health Emergency Logistics Hub in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO). Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed with countries including North Macedonia, Russia, the United States, and Saudi Arabia, focusing on civil defense, financial cooperation, and renewable energy.
Furthermore, the UAE is set to host five major international events, including the WeProtect Global Alliance Summit aimed at safeguarding children from online abuse and the 28th Universal Postal Union Congress in 2025, alongside other crucial forums related to climate change and medical education.
