Gulf News: UAE Vice-President praises the ‘strong national spirit’ of citizens and residents as Cabinet approves key decisions on space, healthcare and global partnerships

The UAE will emerge stronger from current challenges, its Vice-President has said, as he underscored the efficiency of national institutions and the coordinated response across sectors.

The country has faced more than 2,300 drones and missiles from Iran since attacks on Gulf states began on February 28, most of which were intercepted.

“Proud of our people, proud of all residents on our land, and proud of our development model built on competitiveness, flexibility, openness, and strength in facing different conditions,” UAE Vice-President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum posted on X after chairing a Cabinet meeting on Sunday.

He said all sectors are working in line with the commitment made by President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan that the country will safeguard its achievements and continue moving forward despite current circumstances.

“Our national institutions are operating with full efficiency, our defence forces are working with the highest level of professionalism, and our private sector is keeping pace with developments with full responsibility,” Sheikh Mohammed said.

He highlighted the “high defensive readiness” of the Armed Forces, alongside the strong national spirit shown by citizens and residents, and the sense of responsibility demonstrated by work teams across the country.

He stressed that the UAE’s success is built on constants that “have not changed and will not change,” including advanced infrastructure and technology, a progressive legislative system, and a quality of life ranked among the best globally.

The leader also reaffirmed the country’s focus on comprehensive development for both citizens and residents, noting that its trajectory remains steady.

“Our constants remain, our journey continues, and our return will be stronger, God willing, after these exceptional circumstances,” Sheikh Mohammed said.

Space sector strategy approved
Sheikh Mohammed said the Cabinet approved the UAE’s space sector strategy for the next five years, as the country looks to strengthen its global position in the field.

He said the sector is valued at more than Dh44 billion, with over 170 scientific, national and economic entities operating within it. The UAE has developed and launched 30 satellites, alongside establishing a national astronaut programme and carrying out a scientific mission to Mars.

He added that a new mission to Venus and the asteroid belt is also underway, with the country aiming to rank among the top 10 nations globally in the space sector within the next five years.

Healthcare, tech partnerships endorsed
The Cabinet also approved a national strategy for integrative medicine, aimed at building a comprehensive healthcare system that balances traditional and modern medicine, Sheikh Mohammed said.

He added that a set of international partnerships in technology and advanced sectors was also endorsed during the meeting.

Over 120 international agreements signed
During the meeting, Sheikh Mohammed said the Cabinet also approved more than 120 international agreements and memoranda of understanding across sectors including energy, investment, the economy, diplomacy and humanitarian work.

He said the UAE’s global partnerships continue to grow, with its international presence expanding steadily, supported by a strong network of relations built over decades.