Automation is revolutionising the UAE’s labour market services. At the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), human effort has been reduced by 56 per cent, with 175,000 of 310,000 requests between February and October fully automated. Even more impressively, review and approval times for eligible quota requests have been slashed by up to 99 per cent,  from 10 days to just one second.

This dramatic efficiency gain comes from MoHRE’s AI-powered smart work permit system, which automatically verifies eligibility, allocates quotas, and uses predictive models to anticipate workforce needs, all while minimising delays, errors, and manual intervention.

The Ministry says this milestone reflects its technology-driven approach to service development, combining advanced AI solutions, a robust digital infrastructure, and continuous upskilling of employees to manage smart automation effectively. Seamless electronic integration with government partners further enhances speed and reliability.

A standout feature is the AI-powered quota allocation system, which supports business growth by proactively assigning workforce quotas based on an establishment’s operational status and real-time needs. The system ensures companies can meet staffing requirements quickly while streamlining approvals and reducing delays.

Since the start of the year until October, the platform has granted around 900,000 work permit quotas and processed over 11 million transactions through automation. For additional quotas, predictive models automatically approve requests when possible, while cases that exceed certain thresholds are referred to specialised committees.

With self-learning capabilities, the system continuously refines its decision-making by analysing new data and monitoring operational patterns. Over time, this leads to more accurate predictions, smarter approvals, and higher-quality outcomes.

Authorities in the UAE have urged drivers to exercise extreme caution during rain and unstable weather, warning motorists to avoid valleys and watercourses while they are flowing, regardless of how shallow they may appear.

The advisory comes as part of nationwide efforts to curb road accidents during adverse weather, when poor visibility, slippery roads and sudden water build-up significantly increase risks.

Abu Dhabi Police stressed that driving into flooded valleys is a serious traffic violation, carrying a Dh2,000 fine, 23 black points, and vehicle impoundment for 60 days.

Motorists have been advised to check weather updates before heading out, stay away from areas where water accumulates or flows, and strictly follow instructions issued by authorities.

Drivers are also urged to reduce speed, keep safe distances between vehicles and avoid all distractions. Abu Dhabi Police warned against using mobile phones while driving, including filming, and reminded motorists to follow speed limits, road signs and electronic message boards at all times.

Staying alert and following safety guidance, police said, is key to protecting lives during severe weather conditions.

The UAE has established a National Media Authority (NMA) under a new federal decree-law, aimed at modernising the country’s media ecosystem, enhancing its integration with global trends, and strengthening the nation’s media presence both regionally and internationally.

The new authority will replace the Emirates Media Council, the National Media Office, and the Emirates News Agency (WAM), functioning as a federal public body with full legal, financial, and administrative independence.

Key roles of the NMA include:

• Setting the UAE’s strategic media directions and unifying policies and messaging across all national outlets.
• Monitoring media narratives and managing crises in coordination with relevant authorities.
• Proposing media laws and regulations for both traditional and digital media, including in free zones.
• Accrediting media professionals and foreign correspondents to ensure high standards.
• Enhancing WAM as the official source for publishing, distributing, and translating accredited news.
• Providing media institutions with reliable news content while promoting best journalistic practices.

The Authority’s creation reflects the UAE’s ongoing commitment to professionalism, innovation, and global influence in media, ensuring a modern framework that aligns with evolving technologies and international standards.

This move positions the UAE to continue shaping national and regional media landscapes, strengthen its narrative, and support the development of a robust, dynamic media sector.