The UAE recently announced its second Cabinet reshuffle of 2024, with significant changes to key ministerial positions. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, the Dubai Crown Prince, was appointed as the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, marking a historic move for the federal government. The announcement was made by UAE Vice-President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who introduced a total of seven changes in the Cabinet.
One of the most notable changes in the reshuffle was the transfer of the role of Minister of Defence from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid to Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan. This transition marked the end of Sheikh Mohammed’s 53-year tenure as the country’s first defence minister since the unification of the Emirates in 1971. Additionally, two Deputy Prime Ministers were appointed, with Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan joining Sheikh Hamdan in this key role.
The reshuffle also saw changes in the education sector, with Sarah bint Yousif Al Amiri taking over as the Minister of Education, succeeding Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi. The integration of various educational institutions, such as the Emirates Schools Establishment and the Federal Authority of Early Education, under the Ministry of Education is expected to streamline the educational system in the country. Furthermore, the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, which was established in this reshuffle after 10 years, will be overseen by Abdulrahman Al Awar.
The Ministry of Sports also saw a significant development in the reshuffle, with its reinstatement after over 16 years. Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, the former Minister of Education, will now lead the Ministry of Sports after serving as the chairman of the General Authority of Sports since 2021. Another new addition to the federal government is Alia Abdulla Al Mazrouei, who was appointed as the Minister of State for Entrepreneurship. With a background in the private sector, venture capital, and entrepreneurship, she is expected to bring valuable expertise to her new role.
The first Cabinet reshuffle of 2024 in January included key appointments such as Sultan AlNeyadi as Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Amna Bin Dahak AlShamsi as Minister of Climate Change and Environment, and Mohammed Al Mazrouei as Minister of State for Defence Affairs. These changes reflect the UAE government’s commitment to enhancing leadership positions and ensuring effective governance across various sectors. With the new ministers in place, the country is poised to navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities for growth and development in the years to come.
