UAE to amend, waive fees for over 1,500 government services

The UAE Cabinet will amend and waive fees for more than 1,500 federal government services, it was announced on Tuesday.

The move is part of efforts to enhance the national economy, reduce costs to business owners and increase the competitiveness of the UAE, a statement said.

The decision covers fees for more than 1,500 government services provided by the ministry of Interior, ministry of Economy and the ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.

It will “promote economic growth in the UAE”, attract more foreign investments and position the country as a “hub for business by reducing administrative costs and fees”, the statement said.

The decision also balances the revenue system of the government in parallel with the tax system, it added.

The move came even as it was revealed that the UAE was ranked as the first in the region and among the top five globally in the IMD World Competitiveness Rankings.

The UAE was also ranked as the top nation among the 63 others in the list for business efficiency, and scored high for digital transformation and entrepreneurship.

Earlier this week, the country’s Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also directed all federal and local government entities to step up efforts to dominate the top 10 ranks in 1,000 world competitive indices over the next 10 years.

“We have risen to the top positions in the most important indices of education, health, economy, innovation, security and safety,” he said.

“Today… competitiveness has become an integral part of the government work system in the country,” he added.