Dubai Ruler Calls Out Executives for Blocking Public Access

Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE vice president and prime minister and ruler of the emirate of Dubai, condemned the three government managers for blocking public access to their offices, incurring wrath upon themselves for the wrongdoing; denying the public their usual open access to such services by citing the fact of the digitalization of those same services.

According to his address, Sheikh Mohammed emphasized that such things were against the core culture of Dubai and public services. “The secret to success is to serve people, lighten their burden, and not stop communicating with them,” he said, pointing out that these principles were not amended. The managers had been so extreme that they have even placed security personnel and secretaries at their doors as a means of denial, and Sheikh Mohammed condemned this totally.

This comes as part of comments the Ruler issued following the government’s “mystery shopper” initiative that witnessed anonymous people reporting on government departments’ performance. He gave his compliments on the same report to Mohammed Al Marri, the director-general of GDRFA, for his quality public service offered to his valued customers and welcoming attitude towards the public.

Sheikh Mohammed said that the good reputation of Dubai for exceptional service was built on its commitment to an “open doors” culture, where public officials are always accessible to the people. It is not the first time the Dubai Ruler has called out officials, as he has previously addressed lapses in government service through public reprimands.