$8.17bln initiative to boost economy

The Ruler of Dubai has announced a new strategic programme to boost vital sectors in the country.

“We launched the new strategic program of the Emirates Development Bank, a financing portfolio worth Dh30 billion to stimulate a group of vital sectors of national priorities," said His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

"The goal is to finance 13,500 new companies in these sectors in the coming years,” he said in a post on Twitter.

Commenting on the state of the UAE economy, he noted: “Our national economy is doing well and progressing well. We have assets in the state banks exceeding Dh3 trillion to push our economy towards new horizons."

The Dubai Ruler then extended a warm invitation to anyone who wishes to pursue their dreams in the country.

"We welcome everyone to make their dream in the United Arab Emirates. We welcome their future with us in the country of the future,” he said.

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, also commented on the launch, affirming the UAE's commitment to support ideas to bolster the economy.

"The strategy of the Emirates Development Bank is an ambitious additional driver for the development of the national economy and a major supporter of companies and small and medium enterprises."

"We are committed to supporting exceptional initiatives and qualitative and creative ideas that support industry and advanced technology and that keep pace with our future development priorities,” he added.