LocationsNew joint initiative establishes unified digital policies for a thriving regional digital economy
UNDP and Ooredoo to lead digital transformation across the Arab States region
November 20, 2024
Doha – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) joined hands with the Ooredoo Group to announce a joint initiative to establish a comprehensive policy framework to accelerate digital transformation across the Arab States region. The initiative also engages other technical partners
Launched at Ooredoo’s inaugural Digital Ecosystem Conference in Doha, this initiative responds to the urgent need for cohesive digital regulations and policies that support sustainable economic growth. The initiative will propose a policy and regulatory framework that fosters investment, reduce transactional friction, and support cross-border innovation—thus enhancing digital readiness in Arab countries and helping them seize opportunities within a rapidly expanding digital economy.
“In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, cohesive policies are essential for fostering inclusive economic growth and resilience,” said Susanne Dam Hansen, Deputy Director, Amman Regional Hub, UNDP. “This partnership marks an important contribution to unlocking the vast potential of the digital economy across our region. By creating a unified digital policy framework, we are fostering an environment where innovation can thrive, the digital divides bridged, and sustainable development is within reach for all.”
The framework will be developed with the expertise of leading organizations and will serve as a guide for policymakers to create regulatory contexts conducive of private sector investments and sustainable digital growth.
“Without supportive, harmonised policies, the full potential of digital economies remains untapped,” said Hilal Mohammed Al-Khulaifi, Chief Legal Regulatory and Corporate Governance Officer, Ooredoo. “This initiative is a decisive step toward creating a unified digital policy framework tailored to our region’s unique landscape. Our collaboration with UNDP brings together unparalleled expertise, marking a landmark step toward creating a digital ecosystem that fosters sustainable progress across Middle East and North Africa region.”
The initiative adopts a multi-phased approach, beginning with an evaluation of existing digital regulatory frameworks and adapting them to meet the distinct needs of the Arab States region. Phase 1 will identify global best practices and develop assessment criteria to benchmark each country’s digital policy context. The framework will initially be piloted in a selected country, setting a model for regional adoption. UNDP’s Regional Bureau for Arab States and the Ooredoo Group will further explore developing additional collaborative regional projects under this initiative
For media inquiries, please contact: Omer Kavuk | Regional Communications Specialist | Email: omer.kavuk@undp.org
About UNDP | The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading United Nations organization working to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Operating in 170 countries, UNDP helps countries to build integrated, sustainable solutions for people and planet. Learn more at undp.org or follow us on Twitter @UNDPArabStates & @UNDP.
About Ooredoo | Ooredoo is an international communications company operating across the Middle East, North Africa, and Southeast Asia. Serving consumers and businesses in 10 countries, Ooredoo delivers leading data experience through a broad range of content and services via its advanced, data-centric mobile and fixed networks.
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