UAE Committed to Transparency

Fighting corruption tops the UAE government’s priorities. And Dubai, which is a hub of trade and commerce, has always maintained a zero-tolerance policy.
It is in this spirit that the state is quick to dispense justice in cases of fraud 
and irregularities.

The decision by the Dubai Court in the high profile case involving a former minister and his managers, who were sentenced to two years in jail, only underscores the spirit and commitment of the government in building a transparent and corruption-free society.

The recent decision by the Dubai Court of Misdemeanors, in a Lebanese business woman’s complaint, also reflects the government’s resolve to deal with members of the government, as well as high-profile corporate managers when it comes in conflict with the law of the land. The government of Dubai has affirmed in unequivocal terms that it stands against all forms of corruption, bribery and illegal gains in public and private sector institutions.

It is this resolve that makes the difference as businessmen see Dubai and UAE as their preferred destination for investment and commerce. The government follows a policy of transparency and there are strict instructions that there should be no leniency in matters 
of corruption.

In this regard, Abu Dhabi has also set up an independent accountability authority, which acts as a watchdog over not only domestic institutions but also to oversee the Emirate’s expanding role as a big economic player.

The intention is to build a corruption-free society, a prompt and responsive administration along with an inherent accountability mechanism, in order to remove impediments that hinder the rise of this country to greater heights 
of excellence.

The UAE leadership believes that there cannot be growth and progress, and equitable justice, unless transparency and efficiency of the government agencies and government-owned companies is ensured across the board. And in doing so, the role of the judiciary comes into play, which fortunately has been free and assertive by all means.

Khaleej Times
25 February 2009
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