The goal to double the size of the Dubai economy and become one of the top three economic cities in the world is a testament to the ambition of the Dubai leadership.

Inayat-ur-Rahman, Business Editor

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, on Wednesday launched the Dubai Economic Agenda ‘D33’ with the ambitious goals of doubling the size of Dubai’s economy over the next decade, and consolidating its position among the top three global cities.

The ‘D33’ Agenda includes the launch of innovative projects that will help achieve His Highness Sheikh Mohammed’s vision to make Dubai the world’s best city to live and work in. The value of the total targets set by the Dubai Economic Agenda ‘D33’ is Dhs32 trillion by 2033.

The UAE business leaders share their candid views with Gulf Today. They are upbeat about this great initiative, adding that the ambitious goals of this economic agenda will position Dubai as a top global economic hub and a beacon of success.  

Dr Azad Moopen,  Founder Chairman and Managing Director, Aster DM Healthcare, told Gulf Today that the Visionary Rulers of UAE have been very foresighted in their approach to diversify the economy of UAE and be at the forefront of the global economy.

“The UAE saw an exceptional 19% growth in global trade growth in the first nine months of 2022, which is a major milestone in the economic strength of the country. And now, the announcement of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has assured the nation’s commitment towards its people and growth. His Highness’ vision of placing Dubai as one of the top four global financial centres within ten years is really motivating and will empower local entrepreneurs to expand their horizons across the world.

“Dubai is already a leading economic hub and D33’s transformative projects will further open more corridors of investment, enhance the digital transformation landscape and create endless opportunities in this vibrant city,” Moopen concluded.

Dr Mostafa Al Guezeri, Managing Director of Hitachi Energy, said: “Dubai’s 10-year growth plan is a testament to our commitment to a sustainable energy future. By placing sustainability at the heart of all our operations, we can pave the way for a carbon-neutral future that will benefit our present and future generations. It will take dedication, passion, and energy to achieve this goal, but the rewards will be immeasurable. It is great to see the D33 economic agenda, which includes a green and sustainable manufacturing plan, as this demonstrates Dubai’s commitment to sustainability and its leadership in this important area. The launch of this green and sustainable manufacturing plan is a testament to the city’s forward-thinking and innovative approach, and we are confident that it will contribute significantly to Dubai’s economic prosperity.”

Ali Shabdar, MEA Regional Director at Zoho Corp, said:  “The goal to double the size of the Dubai economy and become one of the top three economic cities in the world is a testament to the ambition of the Dubai leadership. It will tremendously impact the city’s economic development and growth by expanding foreign trade and investment, fostering innovation, and encouraging entrepreneurship.”

Abdul Jebbar PB, Group Managing Director of Hotpack Global, said: “The D33 economic agenda is a crucial and far-reaching plan that will drive Dubai’s economic growth and success over the next decade. The ambitious goals of this economic agenda will position Dubai as a top global economic hub and a beacon of success. We believe that this agenda is good for Dubai and will bring numerous benefits and opportunities to the city and its people.”

Bharat Bhatia, CEO & Founder of Conares, said: “Dubai’s economic agenda D33 is a visionary and ambitious plan that will drive the city’s economic growth and success in the coming years. The initiatives to expand Dubai’s foreign trade, foster innovation and entrepreneurship, and support the growth of local businesses will all contribute to the city’s economic growth and success.”

Abdulla Nalapad, Managing Director of Nalapad Investments, said: “D33 is a comprehensive and ambitious plan to cultivate growth in the Dubai economy. One of the standout initiatives of this agenda is the programme to attract the world’s best universities and make Dubai a global pioneering hub for higher education. This initiative will not only boost Dubai’s reputation as a hub for learning and knowledge, but it will also attract top talent and create new opportunities for all stakeholders.”

Karthik Jayaraman, Managing Director, and Co-Founder at WayCool, said: “As a global business hub, we have always been impressed by Dubai’s commitment to driving economic growth and innovation. The Dubai Economic Agenda D33 is a clear indication that this commitment is stronger than ever, and we look forward to see the impact it will have on the city’s economic development over the next decade.”