Abu Dhabi Systems and Information Centre (ADSIC), the entity in charge of Abu Dhabi’s ICT agenda and responsible for uniting 22 government entities under one roof at GITEX 2014, welcomed H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai to its pavilion earlier today.
During his tour, HH got a glimpse of the latest apps and software offerings that make life in Abu Dhabi more convenient, safer and increasingly business-friendly for residents and citizens alike.
“We live in an era where people are no longer willing to wait or go through complicated processes to find information or solutions to their problems. They expect the government to provide immediate, convenient, hassle-free services – and with the present technology out there, this is actually feasible. Currently, there are over 20 different applications and approximately 70 electronic services to customers being showcased in the pavilion,” said Rashed Lahej Al Mansoori, Director General, ADSIC, during a media roundtable earlier today.
One of ADSIC’s most praised initiatives is CityGuard – a free app launched to promote direct interaction between residents and the local government and, ultimately, improve the quality and efficiency of services.
With around-the-clock access to the government, CityGuard is proving to be successful in engaging and empowering the Abu Dhabi community, which is now able to report non-emergency cases relating to public safety, consumer protection, environmental issues, public works, transport and public services via a smartphone, from anywhere at any time.
Since implemented, approximately 85,000 users have downloaded the app. Around 15,000 cases were reported, with 13,500 solved to date.
“The success of CityGuard is yet another proof of the increasing need for government transparency and modernization. The public should have access to information about government operations, but static websites are no longer enough. In order to promote active and continuous community participation, governments must implement innovative channels that will allow residents to, literally, take matters into their own hands, on the spot. And that is exactly what CityGuard does,” said Al Mansoori.
Other key initiatives from ADSIC, including the Abu Dhabi Government Contact Centre (800 555), e-Citizen Programme, Abu Dhabi Spatial Data Infrastructure, Abu Dhabi Portal (www.abudhabi.ae), Jobs Abu Dhabi (www.jobsabudhabi.ae) & correspondence management system (Taresh) are also showcased at GITEX 2014.
In addition, visitors get a chance to hear from the 22 different entities hosted by ADSIC in a 1591 square metres, modern and vibrant pavilion, which is four times the size of last year’s.
The Judicial Department, for example, has literally brought the Abu Dhabi courtroom to GITEX – on a bus. The Abu Dhabi Mobile Court travels across the Emirate raising awareness on a number of legal matters and offering services to select audiences in a number of locations, such as schools, colleges, universities, conferences and labour housing areas.
Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) also used the GITEX platform to announce the launch of its first mobile application, which provides investors with enhanced services and the opportunity to experience the latest technologies ADX offers, with real-time quotes, news, announcements and tools that keep investors up-to-date with market activities.
‘I am positive that the various innovative and creative developments presented by the Abu Dhabi government entities at GITEX 2014 are set to further transform the level of e-government services in the Emirate, promoting change and transformation that will build a sustainable future for all in Abu Dhabi’, concluded Al Mansoori.
Source : WAM News Agency for United Arab Emirates
