Abu Dhabi: The United Arab Emirates marked its 54th Eid Al Etihad, reflecting on a year of groundbreaking achievements that strengthened its global presence, advanced sustainable development, and fostered innovation across multiple sectors. Under the Year of Community, 2025 showcased the nation’s continued journey toward a bright and ambitious future.
The UAE consolidated its position as a leading economic and humanitarian power. Internationally, it maintained an active presence on the world stage, advancing cooperation, supporting humanitarian initiatives, and reinforcing its influence in regional and global affairs.
Environmental Sustainability Takes Centre Stage
2025 was a year of bold environmental initiatives. A first-of-its-kind marine survey explored the nation’s seabed, while a geospatial platform was developed to improve agriculture and water resource management. Sharjah’s Khor Kalba Mangrove Centre joined the global Wetlands Link International network, highlighting the UAE’s commitment to wetland conservation.
The Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative launched the ‘Al Miyah Challenge’ to encourage innovative water solutions, starting with agricultural applications. Abu Dhabi also unveiled the ‘Coral Garden’ project, the largest in the Middle East, aimed at protecting marine biodiversity.
Sharjah inaugurated its first solar power plant, SANA, spanning 850,000 square meters and generating 60 megawatts of energy. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi increased its protected areas to cover 20 percent of the emirate’s total land.
Pioneering Renewable Energy Projects
The UAE broke ground on the world’s largest combined solar and battery storage project, delivering 1 GW of clean, 24/7 power. National companies like Masdar expanded renewable energy projects abroad, establishing solar, wind, and hydrogen plants in Saudi Arabia, Spain, Indonesia, Africa, Yemen, and Egypt, bringing clean electricity to millions.
Advancing Technology and AI Transformation
Digital innovation continued at an unprecedented pace. AI usage reached 97% across the country, supported by over 450,000 skilled programmers. Abu Dhabi launched the UAE–US AI campus, the largest outside the United States. Partnerships with France, Microsoft, BlackRock, and Nvidia strengthened AI infrastructure and advanced energy solutions.
The UAE also approved the National Artificial Intelligence System, which will advise the Cabinet and federal entities starting January 2026. Google Cloud’s Global Cyber Security Centre of Excellence was launched in Abu Dhabi, creating over 20,300 specialized jobs and reinforcing the nation’s cybersecurity capabilities.
At the G20 Summit, the UAE unveiled the US$1 billion AI for Development initiative to fund AI projects in African countries, underscoring its commitment to technology-driven global development.
Legislative and Policy Milestones
The UAE updated its legislative framework with new visa categories for AI specialists, entertainment, events, and cruise tourism. The country also launched the first AI-driven legislative system.
Other national strategies strengthened the foundation for sustainable growth, including the National Strategy to Attract and Retain Talent 2031, the National Cybersecurity Strategy, the Zero Bureaucracy Programme, the National Agenda for Family Growth 2031, and the Emirati National Identity Strategy.
From environmental protection to digital innovation, renewable energy, and international leadership, 2025 was a year of decisive action and forward-looking initiatives. As the UAE celebrates Eid Al Etihad, these achievements highlight its commitment to sustainable development, global cooperation, and a future-ready society.
