Dubai, Nov 29th, 2008 The UAE Government launched its Internal Communications Manual, outlining global best practices to promote consistency and clarity in communication across the UAE Federal Government entities.

Developed by the Government Communications Office in line with the UAE Government Strategy, the manual is part of a wider plan to enhance the external and internal communication competencies of the UAE ministries and federal authorities.

The manual provides clear guidelines on all work related communications including strategy development, key messages, policies and procedures, and communication channels and tactics. It clarifies roles and responsibilities, and aims to build employee engagement and an enhanced understanding of the organisation's commitments, goals and priorities.

HE Mohammad AlGergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, said: 'The UAE Government Communications Office translates the vision of the UAE Government for building a comprehensive internal and external communications strategy that helps instill a synergetic corporate culture among government employees.

'Increasing inter-governmental coordination and information sharing, as well as securing effective interaction with strategic stakeholders, are among the key objectives of the UAE Government. Manuals, guidelines and training workshops organised by the Government Communications Office are essential tools to build the communications competencies of ministries and federal authorities'.

AlGergawi added: 'Maintaining effective communications strategy is one of the fundamental pillars of successful organizational planning. We are confident the accurate and timely implementation of guidelines included in the Internal Communications Manual will generate positive results in raising the overall performance standards of the government'.

Two inaugural workshops organized by the Government Communications Office last week in Abu Dhabi and Dubai were attended by communications officers of various UAE government ministries and federal authorities.

In her opening remarks at the Abu Dhabi seminar, Najla Al Awar, Secretary General of the Cabinet, said: 'The UAE Government is very keen on increasing its employees' involvement by periodically updating them on key developments related to their designated areas. The government places high priority in communicating to all federal employees across the board, the government's strategic goals that cascade down to their respective objectives.

'The new manual will offer government employees wider opportunities to express their views, even while encouraging them to increase their contribution to the progress of their workplaces. Effective internal communications will positively impact the UAE Government's external relations and help enhance the overall quality of services'.

Al Awar added the manual will be an important reference tool for UAE Government internal communications and serve as a catalyst for enhanced interaction and effective engagement between all government employees. (WAM/AB)