The UAE government has approved a groundbreaking remote work system allowing federal employees to work from abroad, creating fresh opportunities for international talent to contribute to government initiatives.
UAE Cabinet Introduces Remote Work Policy Alongside Major Economic Plans
In a forward-thinking move, the UAE has established a new work system that permits federal government employees to work remotely from outside the country. This progressive initiative was announced during a Cabinet meeting chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
The primary goal is to attract global talent to participate in government projects, studies, and specialised tasks, reinforcing the UAE’s position as an innovative leader in government operations.
Six-Year National Investment Strategy to Double FDI
During the same Cabinet meeting at Qasr Al Watan, the government approved a comprehensive six-year national investment strategy with ambitious targets. The plan aims to more than double annual foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows from Dh 112 billion in 2023 to Dh 240 billion by 2031.
Additionally, the strategy seeks to increase the total stock of foreign investments from Dh 800 billion to Dh 2.2 trillion within the same timeframe.
Sheikh Mohammed emphasised that the strategy will concentrate on essential sectors including:
- Industry
- Logistics
- Financial services
- Renewable energy
- Information technology
“The UAE continues to develop its economy, open new markets, attract investments, and create the best business environment globally,” Sheikh Mohammed stated following the meeting.

Strengthening African Partnerships
The Cabinet reviewed progress on the UAE’s strategic partnerships with African nations, reporting impressive results. Approximately 95% of previously approved initiatives have been implemented, leading to substantial growth in trade volume with Sub-Saharan Africa.
Trade figures rose from Dh 126.7 billion in 2019 to Dh 235 billion in 2024—representing an 87% increase over five years.
Sheikh Mohammed shared on his social media: “The UAE will continue to build new economic bridges across all continents, solidifying its position as a global trade hub connecting regions around the world.”
Digital Economy Growth and Health Initiatives
The meeting also covered the national digital economy strategy, which aims to increase the digital economy’s contribution to GDP from 9.7% to 19.4% over the next six years through various national projects and reforms.
In healthcare developments, the Cabinet:
- Adopted a new national policy to combat health risks
- Enhanced the country’s preparedness and response capabilities
- Approved executive regulations on human organ and tissue donation
The UAE currently has more than 13 licensed centres performing transplant procedures and has seen a 30% increase in transplant surgeries.
“Today, the UAE offers transplants for kidneys, liver, heart, lungs, pancreas, and other organs. Our health sector continues to advance, with a commitment to delivering the highest standards of healthcare services for all,” Sheikh Mohammed added.
Social Support System Enhancement
The Cabinet approved updated regulations for the social support and empowerment system, defining eligibility standards and criteria for receiving allowances.
Key developments include:
- A 29% increase in the annual budget for social support programs, reaching approximately Dh 3.5 billion
- A 37% rise in the number of beneficiaries
- 3,200 individuals successfully integrated into the labour market
This reflects a strategic shift from support-based assistance to active economic participation.
International Agreements
The Cabinet ratified 28 international agreements, including:
- Economic partnership agreements with Malaysia, New Zealand, and Kenya
- Various security, logistics, and government cooperation agreements worldwide
Sheikh Mohammed concluded: “Our teams’ efforts continue to drive progress, and the trajectory of growth is accelerating. Every day, we see our country’s future becoming brighter, stronger, and more prosperous, thanks to the dedication and commitment of thousands of teams across all sectors.”
Key Takeaway
The UAE’s approval of remote work for federal employees abroad represents a significant step in the nation’s ongoing transformation into a global hub for talent, investment, and innovation. By opening government roles to international talent while simultaneously boosting foreign investment, digital economy initiatives, and healthcare capabilities, the UAE continues to position itself as a forward-looking nation ready to thrive in an increasingly borderless global economy.





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