Almost two months after taking over as the President of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan addressed the nation on Wednesday.  

The president, who launched several initiatives, including a strategy to increase the industrial sector’s contribution to the UAE’s economy to $81 billion, and housing benefits worth $400 million for Emiratis in the last two months, reiterated the focus on diversification of the economy. 

He said that the UAE would continue to support global energy security, and highlighted the importance of the country’s continued progress of skilled human capital and science and technology.

The president acknowledged the contributions of expats from 200 nationalities who considered the UAE a second home and stressed the role of Emirati history, culture, and identity in shaping the country’s plans for the future. “More than 200 nationalities are active participants in the development of our country, and diversification of our economy is a vital part of our development plans. We will continue to establish the country as a reliable energy provider and a supporter of global energy security.”

He pointed out that the private sector plays a key role in the country’s economy and that the nation needs to boost its economic competitiveness and top global indicators. “Our priority is to develop our capabilities in science and technology. Our job is to ensure a bright future for the present and future generations. To achieve this goal, we need to work hard and coordinate our efforts. To safeguard the UAE’s achievements and capabilities, we need to double our efforts.”

The president also emphasized the importance of sustainability, transparency, security, and sovereignty and said that the UAE’s people are the country’s priority. “Our top priority is the UAE and its people. We will continue to pursue our pivotal role in building bridges, promoting dialogue and establishing active and balanced relations that are based on transparency and mutual respect with other countries.”