Sheikh Hamdan approves Dubai’s action plan to transform education, transport and real estate

Dubai on Tuesday announced a comprehensive master plan designed to transform its education, real estate, transport sectors and preserve its rich heritage over the next decade. The plan was revealed by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence and was approved by the Executive Council of Dubai, which Sheikh Hamdan chairs.

These new measures, forming part of the broader Dubai Plan 2033 and Dubai Social Agenda 33, are intended to position Dubai as a global destination for living, learning and investment.

As part of the plan, the Education Strategy 2033 aims to equip students and teachers with the necessary tools to elevate educational standards and develop future leaders. Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the strategy’s role in preparing the next generation for leadership roles:

“Today, we approved the Education Strategy 2033 under the Dubai Social Agenda 33, targeting a significant shift in our education system”, said Sheikh Hamdan, according to remarks shared by the Dubai Media Office.

“Under the guidance of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, Dubai has developed a unique, pioneering global model, and we are now building a more advanced education system in line with this model.

“This strategy is an investment in Dubai's future, empowering the next generation with essential skills. We have directed the Knowledge and Human Development Authority to place students at the heart of the new system to equip them with skills to lead and shape the future".

The strategy encompasses the entire educational spectrum, from early childhood to higher education, focusing on early career guidance and ensuring UAE students can compete for spots at top universities globally. It also includes internationally accredited vocational pathways, developed in consultation with educators and parents.

The Real Estate Strategy 2033 seeks to increase Dubai’s real estate transactions to Dh1 trillion by 2033 and double the sector’s role in economic diversification. The strategy aims to boost Emirati competitiveness and promote home ownership to strengthen family stability.

“The strategy also boosts Emirati competitiveness and promotes home ownership to enhance family stability”, stated Sheikh Hamdan.

The plan targets a 70 percent increase in real estate transactions and aims to grow Dubai’s real estate portfolios 20-fold, reaching Dh20 billion. Additionally, the strategy intends to contribute Dh73 billion to Dubai’s GDP and strengthen its reputation as a global investment hub. Other elements include enhancing transparency, utilizing data for market forecasting, integrating AI and centralizing data.

“The aim is to attract investment as well as improve the buying and selling experience. In addition, the strategy prioritises sustainability and the development of balanced, cohesive communities, aiming to raise home ownership rates to 33 per cent”, Dubai Media Office said.

Dubai also announced the Dubai Cashless Strategy, which aims to make Dubai one of the top five cashless cities globally by 2033. The initiative will increase digital transactions across all sectors and contribute AED8 billion to the local economy.

“The strategy will increase digital transactions across all sectors, contributing AED8 billion to the economy and ensuring that 100% of businesses in Dubai accept digital payments”, stated the Dubai Media Office.

The Suspended Transport Systems Project is a critical part of Dubai's Smart Mobility Strategy. By 2030, Dubai aims to automate 25 percent of all trips using a new 65km system that will connect Umm Suqeim Street, Al Khor and Zabeel.

This system is expected to boost public transport journeys, with the goal of having 26 percent of all trips in Dubai conducted via public transport by 2030. The project will integrate seamlessly with other transport systems to improve efficiency and sustainability in the emirate.

The Dubai National Archives Project, managed by the Mohammed bin Rashid Library, aims to safeguard Dubai’s history and cultural heritage. It will involve archiving government records, documenting achievements, and preserving the emirate’s rich history for future generations. The initiative seeks to ensure that Dubai’s story is meticulously recorded and passed down through the ages.