In a momentous celebration, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, marked the 25th anniversary of the Executive Office’s founding—a cornerstone institution that has profoundly shaped Dubai’s transformation into a global leader across multiple domains.
Speaking at the ceremony, Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the Executive Office’s enduring impact: “Over 25 years, the Executive Office has been a hub for bold ideas, a catalyst for change, and a cornerstone in realizing our vision for Dubai.”
A Strategic Engine for Development
Described by Sheikh Mohammed as a “think tank for bold ideas” and the “execution arm of future-building initiatives,” the Executive Office has not only supported decision-making at the highest level but has also championed innovation-driven governance. It has steered Dubai’s development by identifying global trends, planning with foresight, and executing high-impact projects.
Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Chairman of the Executive Office, His Excellency Mohammed Al Gergawi, reflected on the office’s legacy: “Guided by His Highness’s vision, the office was never meant to be a conventional government body. It was conceived as a lab for ambitious ideas, and it has exceeded expectations through revolutionary initiatives that boosted Dubai’s global competitiveness.”
Driving Forces Behind Dubai’s Transformation
Among its notable contributions, the Executive Office has been instrumental in launching and managing transformative projects such as:
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Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC): Established in 2004, the DIFC helped solidify Dubai’s reputation as a premier global financial hub. In 2024, it recorded its highest performance ever with over 6,920 active companies and more than $700 billion in assets under management.
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Dubai Council: Formed in 2020, the Council has spearheaded 25 transformational projects, overseeing economic and social reforms that have reinforced Dubai’s standing on the world stage.
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Mohammed bin Rashid Global Initiatives (MBRGI): Founded in 2015, it is the largest regional humanitarian and development foundation, benefiting 149 million people in 118 countries with an annual expenditure of AED 2.2 billion in 2024.
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Smart Dubai and Digital Dubai Authority: Since 2013, this initiative has led Dubai’s digital transformation, culminating in the emirate ranking 4th globally in the 2025 Smart Cities Index by IMD.
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Dubai Future Foundation (DFF): Created in 2016, DFF is behind future-centric initiatives like the iconic Museum of the Future and the Dubai Future District Fund, contributing AED 3 billion to Dubai’s GDP.
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Hatta Development Project: With over 40 initiatives since 2016, this project has transformed Hatta into a vibrant tourist destination attracting 1.5 million visitors annually.
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Dubai Executive Council: Founded in 2003, it supervises over 60 government entities and has become a model for efficient and integrated governance in the region.
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Dubai Holding: Launched in 2004, it now manages AED 280 billion in assets and employs over 45,000 people across 34 countries.
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Mohammed bin Rashid Center for Leadership Development (MBRCLD): Since 2003, the center has trained over 1,000 leaders, including ministers and high-ranking officials across sectors.
A Vision Beyond Today
The celebration included an exhibition of landmark initiatives, and Sheikh Mohammed reaffirmed the strategic importance of the office’s role in accelerating Dubai’s progress. He highlighted the unwavering bet on youth and innovation, urging continued momentum towards achieving new developmental milestones.
“Dubai’s journey of excellence is only beginning. The Executive Office will continue to be our launchpad for the future—transforming visionary ideas into reality and enabling our youth to craft a brighter tomorrow,” Sheikh Mohammed affirmed.
As Dubai looks ahead, the Executive Office stands as a symbol of visionary governance, strategic agility, and the relentless pursuit of excellence—remaining at the heart of Dubai’s journey toward global leadership in the 21st century.
