ADSSSA showcases blockchain implementation in bid to accelerate 'One Government' services model

• Authority partners with DarkMatter Group to implement blockchain technologies designed & developed in the UAE.
• The system integrates with Abu Dhabi Locker, a single destination for digital record-keeping.
• Move represents strong push towards translating the vision of ‘Ghadan 21’ plan to build a sustainable knowledge economy

In line with Abu Dhabi's vision to accelerate sustainable, social and economic development through digital transformation, Abu Dhabi Smart Solutions and Services Authority (ADSSSA) in partnership with DarkMatter Group announced the strategic direction for the adoption of blockchain technologies. Aligned with Abu Dhabi’s Ghadan 21 program, aims to accelerate the adoption of digital transformation, one of ADSSSA's core pillars set to bring Abu Dhabi government services under one roof.

The integrated system follows Abu Dhabi government’s efforts to build the 'One Government' services model based on advanced technologies as the platform to provide social and economic benefits to citizens, residents and investors in the emirate seeking faster, more secure and efficient government services. ADSSSA works towards consolidating over 1,600 government services in one integrated platform, aimed at streamlining these services into 80 digital journeys to achieve efficiency.

Through the partnership, DarkMatter Group has designed and developed the blockchain technologies locally and will facilitate its deployment under three parallel tracks with short, medium and long-term goals. It features a cross-platform private blockchain implementation through a Software Development Kit that integrates proprietary cryptographic schemes and protocols, among others.

Blockchain technologies have been gaining traction among governments worldwide as one of the most recent developments that has the potential to transform the core of government services and reshape the structure of governance. It provides users with the ability to cross check data within one system, safely and securely. Once implemented, it will offer massive reduction in paper usage as well as facilitate various types of transactions.

H.E. Dr. Rauda Al Saadi, Director General of ADSSSA, said: “Blockchain is one of the most transformative technologies which presents a huge opportunity for the government to accelerate our digital journey towards meeting the needs of citizens, residents, and businesses, in line with the ‘Ghadan 2021’, which is aimed towards building a sustainable knowledge economy. It is set to deliver the most efficient services, within a trusted and secure digital environment which ADSSSA has placed at the heart of its mission. With DarkMatter Group implementing the blockchain technology, we are confident that Abu Dhabi government services will continue to raise the bar in implementing effective technologies enabling the emirate’s digital transformation initiatives.”

Dr. Rauda in addition said, “the UAEPASS we launched yesterday facilitates digital identification and transactions. The blockchain technologies introduced today complement it with efficient, immutable, and secure record-keeping”.

Karim Sabbagh, CEO of DarkMatter Group, commented, “Imagine renewing your car registration, buying and selling property, renting and letting of property, registering businesses, making payments, receiving medical service, and renewing staff residencies. All done securely with a push of a button, and from the comfort of your home.”

Blockchain is a powerful system that enables transactions and record-keeping for a variety of services, while achieving significant operational efficiencies. The technology also increases data security through its cryptographic and auditing properties and is poised to transform traditional business models through offering a multitude of benefits including reduced costs, higher transparency, improved security and enhanced efficiency. Most importantly, blockchain eliminates the need for a trusted party or an intermediary, replacing those with secure cryptographic and consensus layers, making the flow of value safer and more efficient.

DarkMatter Group is a leading Emirati technology company, focusing significantly on advanced technologies that enable smart and safe digital, including blockchain and cryptography. Since its establishment in 2015, DarkMatter Group has developed a portfolio of solutions aimed at enhancing and securing critical infrastructure within the key sectors that underpin society: defense, intelligence, civil government, financial services, transportation, energy, and telecommunications.