Sharjah has undergone a remarkable evolution in technology adoption. In an exclusive interview with Telecom Review, Sheikh Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Director of the Sharjah Digital Office (SDO), shared details about the emirate’s journey into the digital realm.
How does the Sharjah Digital Office (SDO) facilitate the digitalization process of Sharjah government entities and thus better ensure digital transformation in the UAE?
The Sharjah Digital Office (SDO) plays a pivotal role in advancing the digital transformation journey of Sharjah's government entities. By working collaboratively with these entities, SDO leverages its expertise to design and implement innovative digital solutions that streamline processes, enhance efficiency and elevate the overall quality of government services. Through the provision of strategic guidance, technological infrastructure and a unified vision, SDO empowers government bodies to seamlessly transition into the digital era. This holistic approach ensures that digital transformation becomes integral to their operations, contributing to a more technologically adept and forward-looking UAE.
Can you give a brief outlook on Sharjah's technological advancements over the years and how they improve people's experiences?
Over the years, Sharjah has undergone a remarkable evolution in technology adoption, leading to significant enhancements in people's experiences. Integrating digital solutions across various sectors has revolutionized how citizens, residents and businesses interact with government services. Technological advancements have created a more user-friendly environment, from instant access to essential information to the seamless completion of administrative processes. These developments have saved time and effort and fostered transparency and convenience, thus enriching the lives of individuals and bolstering their confidence in digital services.
Please share how Sharjah continues its journey in the digital realm. What is the core impact of digital initiatives on Sharjah's economic and societal development?
Sharjah's journey in the digital realm is marked by its commitment to comprehensive digitalization; the core impact of our digital initiatives resonates deeply across economic and societal dimensions. On the economic front, digital solutions drive efficiency, enabling businesses to thrive in an environment that encourages entrepreneurship and innovation. This, in turn, propels economic growth and positions Sharjah as a hub for investment and trade. Societally, digital initiatives empower residents by offering accessible and convenient services that cater to their evolving needs. By fostering digital literacy and inclusion, we are creating a better-equipped society to adapt to rapid technological changes, paving the way for a more sustainable and progressive future.
How do you aim to fulfill Digital Sharjah's campaign for 2024 and beyond?
The Digital Sharjah campaign for 2024 is a visionary endeavor that encapsulates our commitment to creating a complete digital ecosystem. Through targeted strategies and collaborative efforts, we aim to establish an innovative hub that fosters inclusivity, sustainability and technological advancement. By leveraging emerging technologies, refining existing processes and promoting a culture of innovation, we are poised to offer an unparalleled digital experience to residents, businesses and government entities. This campaign is a testament to our dedication to achieving digital excellence and solidifying Sharjah's role in the digital landscape.
From your perspective, how will a holistic digital transformation, spurred on by today's technologies, influence the way Sharjah and the whole UAE function as a society?
A holistic digital transformation powered by today's technologies will usher in a paradigm shift in how Sharjah and the entire UAE function as a society. It will engender a more connected and efficient environment where government services are seamlessly accessible and tailored to individual needs. This transformation will amplify collaboration between the public and private sectors, nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship. Moreover, a digitally adept society will be better equipped to address challenges and harness opportunities in diverse sectors, from healthcare to smart infrastructure and sustainable development. Ultimately, this transformation will propel us towards a future where technological empowerment becomes the cornerstone of progress, making Sharjah and the UAE leaders in shaping a digitally driven society.