Why data is open?
In line with the principles of transparency, openness, cooperation and sharing, the Ministry of Finance (MoF) has adopted the open data concept. MoF provides many files and documents through its website that includes content that can be shared and republished to increase the level of public and specialised knowledge of its practices.
You will find studies, reports, and statistics released by MoF in a variety of formats. Most documents are available in MS Word, MS Excel and PDF formats in accordance with the government general policy and the best relevant international practices.
The open data policy is considered one of the leading practices that reflect the desire of the Ministry for continuous development. By opening up to its customers and providing all the data and information they need in a transparent and seamless manner, it enables them to follow up and to give their feedback about the quality of services and activities of the Ministry. The process falls in line with the strategic objectives of the government and the UAE Vision 2021, which includes providing customer-centric services that meet the overall needs and requirements of the customers.
The UAE realises the importance of making data and information available for government and private sectors as it allows citizens and residents access to whatever they need and can support their participation in the development process. This falls under the philosophy of understanding community needs and achieving the Global Competitiveness requirements.
In this context, the UAE launched several initiatives related to information and services in the fields of knowledge, publishing and introducing facts, statistics and data. These efforts culminated in achieving first place in the MENA region and 26th globally in the Corruption Perceptions Index 2013 issued by Transparency International. The index includes measures for the levels of disclosure, obligation to disclose, and the publishing of, information and statistics.
Open Data benefits:
- Promoting trust in government through increased public understanding of its work
- Supporting strategic planning operations, improving competitiveness and promoting creativity in the best interests of the community
- Promoting innovation through making data available for private companies to develop new services with added value
- Increasing scientific research motivation by conducting research and studies based on published information and statistics
- Correcting economic and social decisions on all levels in order to provide individuals, companies and organizations with the necessary information to make investments and expand their business
- Increasing employment rate and creating job opportunities, as open data promotes foreign investments, and support for the business environment
- Reducing corruption opportunities as a result of clear systems of general accounting
- Supporting economic prosperity and social security
