The Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) concluded the second round of the Dubai Future Accelerators (DFA), which connected emerging technology companies and startups with Dubai government bodies.

According to the official release, twelve entities took part in the latest DFA program and 28 Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) were signed between Dubai government departments and innovative companies from around the world. The agreements covers a number of  emerging technologies including artificial intelligence (AI), facial recognition, advanced health solutions, Internet of Things (IoT) and much more.

"The United Arab Emirates is now a world-class destination for innovators to come and work with our government institutions to shape the future of vital sectors," said H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Board of Trustees at the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), as he attended the closing ceremony. "The UAE is offering technology companies an ideal platform to test global technologies and future solutions, which cements its leading position in the future industry and in the global charge to shape the future of the most vital sectors today."

In addition, the list of MoUs also includes blockchain technology. The release said that the Department of Naturalization and Residency Dubai (DNRD) will work with ObjectTech and Luther Systems to streamline the process for becoming resident in Dubai using biometric and blockchain technology. Agreements have also been between Smart Dubai, Avanza Solutions, and Consensys to standardize government services payment gateways using blockchain technology in Dubai.

"The Dubai Future Accelerators program sets an example and a business model where various sectors - public and private - can come together to draw up scenarios to face the challenges of the future, and benefit from the opportunities to secure sustainable development and prosperity for future generations," H.H. Sheikh Hamdan added. "The second edition of the program witnessed seismic shifts in the field of future technologies. This reiterates the fact that UAE is now a global hub for exporting advanced technologies and a platform to exchange experience and learn about the latest developments. Furthermore, the initiatives launched today will enhance the program's reputation as the world's best platform to connect the private and public sectors to build the future."