Dubai approves succession planning system for Emirati govt employees 

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, has issued Executive Council Resolution No 81 of 2024, introducing a new succession planning system for Emirati employees in the government of Dubai.

The resolution aims to strengthen corporate risk management, ensure business continuity, and improve the long-term stability of government operations.

The new system will be implemented across all government entities and is designed to identify and nurture top-performing Emirati employees to prepare them for key roles that are critical to the success and smooth operation of Dubai’s government institutions.

The succession planning system outlines a structured approach to identifying high-potential employees and equipping them with the necessary skills and experience to advance within the government sector.

The initiative aligns with Dubai’s long-term vision of creating a skilled and resilient public sector workforce that can adapt to evolving challenges and sustain government excellence.

Key features of the resolution

The resolution applies to all Emirati civilian employees in government departments, with the exception of those on temporary contracts, special contracts, secondments, or retirees.

It mandates that government entities establish uniform procedures for succession planning, ensuring transparency and consistency across departments.

According to the resolution, employees will be nominated for succession planning in coordination with their unit heads and with the employee’s consent.

Nominations will be based on the employee’s performance, strategic departmental needs, and alignment with Emiratisation policies, which prioritise the employment and development of UAE nationals.

DGHR’s role in implementation

The Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR) will oversee the development and approval of a guide detailing the procedures, timelines, and templates necessary for implementing the system.

DGHR will also monitor compliance, provide guidance to government entities, and periodically review the system’s effectiveness, making recommendations for updates and amendments as needed.

DGHR’s director general will be responsible for issuing the necessary decisions to enforce the resolution, which is effective from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.

Strategic importance of succession planning

The new resolution represents a significant step towards ensuring the future success and sustainability of the Dubai government.

By identifying key positions that are essential for achieving departmental goals and ensuring business continuity, the succession planning system will help mitigate corporate risks and maintain operational efficiency even in the face of workforce transitions.

The system not only aims to improve operational stability but also to empower Emirati employees by providing them with structured career development opportunities.

The initiative underscores the government’s dedication to Emiratisation, as it encourages the retention and development of local talent within Dubai’s growing public sector.