The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) conducted an introductory session for the new Public Top-Level Domain (gTLD) Program, launched by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), the global overseer of the domain name system. This program permits entities, organizations, and brands to create and manage custom internet domains that extend beyond traditional ones like “.com” or “.net,” including domains such as “.brand,” “.bank,” and “.city.”
The session saw the attendance of various representatives from governmental and private institutions in the country, aimed at providing an extensive overview of the program. It highlighted how organizations and businesses can leverage the new top-level domains to enhance their digital identity, increase visibility and differentiation online, and support digital transformation while promoting cultural and linguistic diversity, fostering competition, and creating more reliable and user-friendly digital spaces.
Engineer Abdul Rahman Al Marzouqi, Director of Policies and Programs at TDRA, stated, “TDRA is committed to preparing national institutions to keep pace with global advancements in the domain name system, enabling them to understand advanced technical aspects and integrate with existing digital systems. Additionally, TDRA aims to support digital transformation and strengthen the regulatory framework for the digital sector to ensure the sustainability of the national digital presence at both regional and international levels. This session is part of TDRA’s efforts to inform stakeholders about the opportunities presented by the new public gTLD program and to encourage meaningful and informed participation that contributes to achieving digital transformation goals and enhancing the digital excellence of the UAE.”
Significant Milestone
Bahr Essmat, Vice President of Stakeholder Engagement for the Middle East and General Manager for the Middle East and Africa at ICANN, remarked, “The 2026 round of new top-level domains (gTLDs) represents a crucial phase shaping the future of the domain name industry. It is essential for governments and businesses in the UAE and the region to be prepared and engaged.”
This session is part of TDRA’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness about digital opportunities, support the digital identity of national institutions, and contribute to enhancing the UAE’s standing in the global internet landscape.