Sheikh Mohammed censures officials over open-door policy breach

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has reaffirmed his dedication to the open-door policy within Dubai’s government. Taking to X, he emphasized the importance of maintaining direct and human-centered public service as a cornerstone of governance.

In his recent statement, Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the UAE’s long-standing tradition of eliminating barriers between government officials and the public. He also attributed this approach as one of the main reasons that helped associate Dubai's global reputation with excellence and fostering a collaborative, people-first working environment.

In the tweet that gained a lot of traction on X, Sheikh Mohammed praised Mohammed Al Marri, Director of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), for his exemplary leadership. Al Marri was commended for his welcoming demeanor, dedication to addressing visitors needs and concerns and adherence to the open-door ethos.

However, Sheikh Mohammed also highlighted concern over reports about three other directors in the public sectors, who have distanced themselves from the public, saying that these officials had created isolated offices and added barriers such as stationed managers, secretaries, and security guards, citing the reliance on digital services as justification for limiting communications with the public.

In response, Sheikh Mohammed directed the secret shopper team to conduct a comprehensive review of government departments to ensure adherence to accessibility and service excellence.

“The foundation of our success lies in serving people, simplifying their lives, and maintaining direct and constant communication with them,” Sheikh Mohammed said. “These principles are the essence of our government and will never change. For those not aligned with these values, we will take action to correct course.”

The announcement resonated widely, with thousands engaging with Sheikh Mohammed’s tweet. Many expressed gratitude for his commitment to accountability and his focus on maintaining a government that prioritizes the needs of Dubai's people.