The UAE Ministry of Interior has received an Excellence in Project Management Award from the Project Management Institute in recognition of its partnership with the organisation and its role in advancing innovation, leadership and institutional performance across the UAE.
The award was presented during the PMI Global Summit Series in Lisbon by PMI President and CEO Pierre Le Manh. It was accepted on behalf of the Ministry by Major Dr Hamad Al Darmaki, President of the Youth Council and Head of Project Development, and Major Saeed Al Jneibi, Executive Director of Special Projects.
The recognition highlights the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to strengthen project governance through the adoption of global best practice and AI driven analysis. Its approach focuses on improving operational performance, supporting data informed decision making and delivering measurable outcomes across complex national initiatives.
In September 2025, the Ministry signed a memorandum of understanding with the Project Management Institute, becoming the first security organisation in the Middle East and North Africa region to establish a strategic partnership with PMI.
The agreement was designed to support the integration of artificial intelligence into project governance, with a focus on predictive analytics, portfolio optimisation, professional development and institutional capability building.
Since the partnership was established, the two organisations have collaborated on specialist programmes combining project management frameworks with AI enabled insights. The work includes initiatives around proactive risk management, benefit realisation and strategic alignment, alongside the development of advanced research and operational models intended to improve agility and future readiness across security operations.
The award also reflects the Ministry’s broader focus on redefining project success beyond delivery targets, placing greater emphasis on long term impact, cross sector collaboration and continuous transformation.
Major Saeed Al Jneibi said the recognition reinforces the value of the partnership and the role of technology in future project leadership.
“We are honoured to receive this recognition from the Project Management Institute and value our strategic partnership with an institution that shares our commitment to excellence and continuous advancement,” he said.
“This collaboration strengthens our ability to leverage AI in project leadership, enhances professional competencies and supports our mission to deliver transformational outcomes aligned with the UAE’s future vision.”
Hanny Alshazly, Managing Director for the Middle East and North Africa at PMI, said the Ministry continues to set a strong example in strategic delivery and innovation.
“PMI is proud to recognise the UAE Ministry of Interior as a forward looking institution that continues to set benchmarks for excellence, innovation and strategic delivery,” he said.
“Our partnership reflects PMI’s unwavering commitment to supporting the UAE’s national visions by ensuring its bold ambitions are powered by talented, highly skilled professionals equipped with globally recognised standards in project management.”
