Dubai SSC Saves AED66 Million for Government in 2024

Post by : Jyoti Singh

Photo: Reuters

Dubai SSC Saves AED66 Million for Government in 2024. The Government of Dubai’s Support Services Centre (SSC), which operates under Dubai Finance (DOF), has announced a major achievement in financial savings for the year 2024. The centre revealed that it saved AED66 million for government entities during the year. With this, the SSC has now brought total cumulative savings to over AED792 million since it began operations in 2008.

This development highlights Dubai’s ongoing commitment to efficiency, innovation, and sustainable financial management. It also reflects the government’s dedication to building stronger systems that make the best use of resources while supporting its vision for a smart and globally competitive economy.

Commitment to Dubai’s Leadership Vision

His Excellency Abdulrahman Saleh Al Saleh, Director-General of DOF, praised the SSC for consistently delivering results that align with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

He explained that the SSC is not just a cost-saving initiative, but also a model for innovation in government services. By using advanced technology, modern management practices, and by developing talent, the SSC helps smaller and medium-sized government entities operate more efficiently.

According to Al Saleh, the SSC has become a vital part of strengthening operational efficiency, improving governance, and ensuring that Dubai continues to stay ahead in competitiveness—both regionally and globally.

Building Trust and Long-Term Value

Hamed Abdulghafoor Alawadhi, Executive Director of the Shared Services Sector at DOF, spoke about the growing trust between the SSC and the government entities it serves. He emphasised that this trust has been built through consistent performance and the ability to deliver real financial savings.

He noted that in 2024 alone, the SSC saved AED65.91 million, which is 5% higher than the savings achieved in 2023. Over 17 years of operation, the total savings have reached AED792.31 million, a strong proof of efficiency and effective financial management.

This growth in savings highlights how the SSC continuously improves its services and expands its reputation as a reliable partner for government departments.

Managing Funds and Services Effectively

Mubarak Ahmad Al Shamsi, Director of the SSC, provided more details about how the centre functions. He revealed that the SSC currently manages a budget of more than AED600 million on behalf of the government entities it serves.

In 2024, the SSC generated revenues of AED10.37 million by providing services to 29 government entities. These services include financial management, employee affairs, and procurement. By taking on these responsibilities, the SSC allows government departments to focus on their main functions without being burdened by complex administrative processes.

Al Shamsi also explained that the SSC works under a unique system where the executive side of financial and administrative tasks is handled by the SSC, while government entities maintain operational freedom. This balanced approach ensures efficiency without taking away the independence of each department.

Comprehensive Services

The SSC offers a wide range of services for government entities, especially those that are new, small, or medium in size. These services cover financial and employee affairs, including:

• Salary management

• Accounting and auditing

• Procurement solutions

• Payables and receivables

• Bank account management

• Financial settlements

• Account closures

Management of fixed assets

The centre operates under a one-stop service model, which means government employees are trained to handle all parts of the Government Resource Planning (GRP) system. This training ensures smooth operations and better service delivery for all entities.

Improving Productivity and Service Quality

By providing shared services, the SSC has made government operations more cost-efficient and streamlined. Instead of each entity setting up its own financial and administrative teams, the SSC provides centralised solutions, reducing duplication and lowering expenses.

This model has led to significant savings while also improving the speed and quality of service delivery. For example, payroll processing, procurement approvals, and accounting processes that would normally take longer are now completed more efficiently.

A Model for the Future

The SSC’s success represents more than just financial savings. It shows how Dubai is building a smart, agile, and future-ready government. By embedding innovation into financial and administrative management, Dubai is setting an example for how governments can be both efficient and forward-looking.

H.E. Abdulrahman Saleh Al Saleh stressed that the SSC is a cornerstone for building a sustainable financial future for Dubai. Its achievements help strengthen the emirate’s global reputation as a hub for innovation and good governance.

Looking Ahead

As Dubai continues its journey towards greater economic strength, initiatives like the SSC will play an even bigger role. The centre is expected to further expand its services, develop new methodologies, and introduce more advanced technologies to support government operations.

With increasing competition among global cities, Dubai’s ability to manage public funds wisely and provide efficient services will ensure that it remains ahead as a leading international hub.

The Support Services Centre has once again proven its importance in Dubai’s financial landscape. By saving AED66 million in 2024 and achieving total savings of over AED792 million since 2008, it demonstrates the strength of shared services and efficient financial management.

Through innovation, trust, and effective strategies, the SSC is not only cutting costs but also paving the way for a smarter, more sustainable, and globally competitive Dubai.