The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) sponsored the 2nd edition of the Abu Dhabi Innovation Week, which was held at the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr hotel on January 24 & 25 2011. The event brought international experts and leading innovators to Abu Dhabi to discuss the exciting landscape of innovation.

His Excellency Mohamed Nasser Al Ghanim, TRA Director General, gave a keynote speech highlighting the vision of the authority on “Enabling Innovation in the UAE” and encouraging the creative ideas that aim to enhance the ICT environment.

“Gaining two points in 2010, the UAE now ranks as the 24th most innovative country in the world, it was also named the most innovative country in the Middle East, citing its robust technology infrastructure. The ability of generating new ideas and solutions to any challenge or problem is a must-have prescription in case we want to remain competitive,” said H.E. Mohamed Al Ghanim.

“TRA is following a multi-pronged strategy aiming to support innovation, ranging from enacting new legislations and creating a suitable atmosphere that encourages creativity. We are following the UAE government vision that has consistently nurtured an ideal environment for inspiring innovation that supports creating a knowledge based economy,” added Al Ghanim.  

The Abu Dhabi Innovation Forum offers two days of focused best practices sharing and new business opportunities emphasizing on the innovation and entrepreneurship issues that are important to the region. Tackling a wide range of critical themes, the high profile speakers took part in the forum, contributed with their expertise offering attendees many innovative ideas that can be implemented within the UAE.

The forum discussed numerous topics including the implementation of change initiatives, facilitating innovation, and revised business models. Furthermore, many other themes were approached by the speakers such as the importance of innovation in emerging markets and its role in creating awareness, enhancing investment planning, and executing strategies.