- First-of-its-kind global forum hosted by Dubai Electronic Security Center in collaboration with the World Bank Group
- World Bank Group acknowledges the UAE as a regional leader in adopting innovative cloud computing standards
- World Bank applauds the UAE’s role in advancing global cloud computing
- Dubai recognised as a ‘city of the future’ for its cutting-edge technological advancements
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council, inaugurated the Global Government Cloud Forum. This pioneering event, the first of its kind, is being hosted by the Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC) in collaboration with the World Bank Group.
The inauguration was attended by prominent figures, heads of government entities, and members of the Board of Directors of the Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC), including His Excellency Lieutenant General Talal Humaid Belhoul Al Falasi, President of Dubai’s State Security Department; His Excellency Awad Hader Al Muhairi, Chairman of DESC; His Excellency Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Director General of Digital Dubai and DESC board member; as well as several other members of the DESC Board of Directors. Additionally, Roby Senderowitsch, Practice Manager at the World Bank Group, and more than 500 industry experts, over 200 government officials, more than 50 distinguished international speakers, and 30 heads of government cloud technology innovation participated in the forum.
Global platform
In his opening remarks, His Excellency Yousuf Al Shaibani, Chief Executive of DESC, underscored the forum’s pivotal role as a global platform for shaping cloud computing strategies and driving sustainable development worldwide.
Al Shaibani remarked: “Hosting this prestigious global forum marks another milestone in Dubai’s commitment to supporting global efforts as it reflects the nation’s visionary strategy to accelerate digital innovation and promote sustainable development.”
“I extend my deepest appreciation to our wise leadership for their foresight, which has been instrumental in the successful hosting of this landmark event. The event contributes to enhancing the UAE and Dubai’s status as a global hub for technology and innovation.”
“This forum is a cornerstone initiative supporting the creation of a secure and informed digital society. DESC remains steadfast in its mission to make Dubai the safest digital city, in alignment with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the UAE Vision 2071,” Al Shaibani further said.
Global recognition
The World Bank Group commended the UAE’s strategic leadership in advancing global cloud computing, particularly in adopting progressive practices and shaping international standards.
The World Bank also lauded the UAE’s success in establishing resilient and innovative digital infrastructure, hosting world-class data centres and leading tech enterprises—solidifying its role as a regional hub for digital innovation. This achievement underscores the UAE’s commitment to sustainable and forward-thinking cloud computing policies.
Dubai was further recognised as a ‘City of the Future’ for its commitment to adopting advanced technology solutions, including modern digital infrastructure and cloud computing, reinforcing its standing as a global centre of innovation. The group highlighted Dubai’s forward-looking digital initiatives.
In his keynote address, Roby Senderowitsch, Practice Manager at the World Bank Group, underscored the critical role of GovTech in advancing living standards around the world. He emphasised that government cloud computing is a fundamental aspect of this transformation, facilitating secure and efficient public services. Senderowitsch underscored the crucial role of cross-country knowledge sharing in advancing digital development and conveyed his appreciation to Dubai for convening the forum.
Senderowitsch lauded the UAE’s exemplary leadership in supporting the advancement of global cloud computing and commended the collaboration between Dubai and the World Bank in developing transformative global cloud strategies.
He further said: “Dubai’s role in hosting this forum and shaping future global cloud strategies reflects its unwavering dedication to digital innovation. The UAE stands as a global model due to its advanced infrastructure and visionary leadership.”
The forum concluded with closing remarks from representatives of the World Bank and DESC, reaffirming the critical role of cloud computing in driving sustainable development and fostering international collaboration.
The forum was organised by DESC in partnership with du as the main partner, alongside Moro HUB and the Investment Corporation of Dubai.