Private sector can play a larger role in Dubai’s growth

Dubai has made it a priority to provide unmatched infrastructural facilities in line with the latest developments in science and technology, and this has enabled the emirate to attract the best investors in the region. It has also elevated Dubai’s position as an exemplary nation for others to follow in terms of governance, adoption of technologies, and delegation of administrative tasks.

It is Dubai’s penchant to provide for the best that has resulted in a robust private sector thus making the city a shining example among nations. And this did not come easy, rather it required adapting to new ideas, facilitating smooth functioning and organising the government workflow.

Dubai’s administrative system is characterised by dynamism in terms of its potential for accommodation and adaptation to future development, as well as its aptness to enter into global partnerships with the private sector. Dubai is a success story and numerous examples will vouch for the same. The handing over of the management of the Dubai Metro, vehicle licensing, driving schools, and customer service of various government sectors to the private sector, while the Emirati still enjoys the advantage regarding ownership, puts Dubai at the forefront of such experience.

While handing over of public sector functions to the private sector is a good move, I would like to raise an important question. Since details of traffic accidents are now being captured smartly through the smart phones apps, why cannot the Traffic Department be turned into the Road and Transports Authority, for example, and eventually outsourced to the private sector for operation purposes? In fact, this is the case with the management of the security of sports facilities and is the practice worldwide. Let’s look at another sector. The outstanding performance by the Dubai Municipality is reflected in the unique buildings and the astounding skyline. This has been one of Dubai’s attractions for the thousands of tourists visiting this city each day. But is it not time to separate the Department of Urban Planning as an independent authority, as was the case with the RTA in 2005 — a move which helped the public transport sector take a quantum leap.

There are certain sectors in the emirate where performance is not up to the mark. It is here that authorities have to strategise to make such sectors active or even integrate them into similar sectors. This would not only make the sectors more efficient but will also help save much effort and money.

A thorough study should be conducted to assess programmes and think of options that can be implemented based on the experiences of Dubai. This is workable through rules and laws that can systemise the process while a close follow up will ensure that things move in the right direction.

While the emirate works at this, the Emirati can benefit from outsourcing the sectors, enjoy the advantages of ownership or even be a shareholder and consequently score higher.