Lead:
Mohamed Abdulla Al-Qurqawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, declared that more than 4 trillion dirhams in Emirati development projects remain under execution during the opening of the UAE government's 2026 annual meetings in Abu Dhabi. The annual gathering brings together approximately 500 senior government officials to review priorities, assess performance, address challenges and showcase achievements. Al-Qurqawi emphasized that the UAE will not pause at past accomplishments but will accelerate delivery and progress twenty years ahead if delayed by one year.
Details:
Al-Qurqawi framed the ongoing investment portfolio as a reflection of the nation's economic strength and continued development trajectory. He stressed four operational pillars: strengthening society, building economic flexibility, accelerating decision-making and improving service delivery. His remarks signaled continuity in the government's development agenda under President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, characterized the annual meetings as a national strategic checkpoint. He stated that the UAE under Mohammed bin Zayed's leadership represents "a model for development and growth, a model for strength and resilience, and a model for economic, governmental, military and political flexibility." Sheikh Mohammed described the gatherings as occasions to review priorities, evaluate work performance, survey challenges and achievements, and operate with unified team spirit to meet citizens' aspirations. He concluded his remarks by saying the nation's future is greater and its banner higher.
Separately, Brigadier General Abdel Nasser Al-Hammadi, official spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence, reaffirmed that the UAE Armed Forces serve as the nation's shield and fortified defence, characterized by proactive readiness and strategic deterrence. He noted that maintaining force readiness is foundational to national protection through sustained military capability to address all challenges and safeguard the state's gains, security, stability and developmental progress.
Watch For:
Implementation timelines for the 4 trillion-dirham project portfolio and which sectors receive prioritized allocation in coming quarters. Concrete policy outcomes emerging from the annual meetings' strategic review sessions. Alignment between defence readiness initiatives and broader government development priorities in 2026-2027.