In December 2024 Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, approved the emirate’s 2025 budget of Dh3.7bn ($1bn). The stated goal of the outlay is to support the emirate’s development plans, enhance community well-being, meet public needs and strengthen Ajman’s stature as a preferred destination for living, working and tourism. The priorities laid out by the government include public safety and community cohesion, infrastructure development, local facilities for its residents and broader aims including bolstering outside investment and environmental protection, as well as improving public services delivery through digital transformation initiatives and digital system upgrades.
The emirate’s principal development strategy, Ajman Vision 2030, is central to the majority of Ajman’s policy decisions – and this budget is no exception. It prioritises future-proofing all development plans in the emirate, adopting new technology in parallel with capacity building for the public sector, and implementing a more flexible institutional framework. This is in addition to other social elements, such as human capital development for a more qualified workforce and an emphasis on sustainability and community well-being.
Spending Priorities
Ajman’s 2025 budget allocated 39% to community development, aiming to improve residents’ quality of life. This includes investment in parks, green spaces and infrastructure upgrades, enhancing living standards and positioning Ajman as a prime destination for individuals and businesses seeking a wellplanned urban environment. These enhancements are instrumental in attracting a skilled workforce, boosting productivity and fostering economic resilience – all of which feed into the key pillars of Ajman Vision 2030.
Ajman is making a substantial effort to modernise its governance framework, with 27% of its budget dedicated to public services and innovation. The focus on improving efficiency and transparency to upgrade its government services, coupled with a strong emphasis on digital transformation, reflects Ajman’s aim to adapt to keep pace with other emirates on government-led digital initiatives. These programmes are strategically designed to benefit residents and businesses by streamlining regulatory processes, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and fostering a more dynamic business climate. Such forward-looking measures are likely to appeal to investors who are seeking efficient and technology-driven administrative systems.
Additionally, economic development receives 20% of the emirate’s 2025 budget, aimed at strengthening Ajman’s economic foundations through targeted investment in key sectors. The government’s support for local businesses, coupled with efforts to attract foreign investment and stimulate tourism, positions the emirate as a competitive player in the UAE’s diversified economy. Alongside these efforts, job creation initiatives further complement this strategy, ensuring a steady supply of skilled talent to support business expansion to the rest of the country and the broader region.
Lastly, 14% is allocated to security and safety, emphasising the importance of a secure environment for sustained growth. Strengthening law enforcement and public safety programmes fosters confidence among residents, businesses and investors. Furthermore, such efforts reinforce Ajman’s reputation as a stable and attractive destination for investment.
Digital Initiatives
A key theme in the 2025 budget is the enhancement of digital systems, particularly within public services. With 27% of the budget earmarked to this area, the focus is on building digital government capacity to drive economic expansion and improve public service delivery. The integration of digital technologies will facilitate better urban planning, expand access to green and blue spaces, and enhance transport systems, including the emirate’s bus network. These efforts align with Ajman Vision 2030, which aims to boost the emirate’s appeal to investors, and create a sustainable and prosperous future for its residents.
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