Dubai officials reprimanded for violating Open-Door Policy

DUBAI: Dubai’s Ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has reprimanded three senior government officials for failing to uphold the Open-Door Policy — a principle ensuring unrestricted access for the public to government officials.

Sheikh Mohammed said these officials had restricted public access, claiming reliance on digital services, which goes against Dubai’s “culture of serving people directly and simplifying their lives.”

He emphasised, “Dubai’s global success stems from its human-centered, open culture of governance. Any deviation from these values will face corrective action.” Sheikh Mohammed also praised Lt Gen Mohammed Al Marri, Director of the GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs that manages Dubai’s visas and residency services) for his dedication to public service and maintaining an open-door approach. The UAE has tools like the Mystery Shopper app, launched in 2020, to measure and improve government services through public feedback. Sheikh Mohammed warned underperforming departments to enhance their services or face action.