UAE Tops Global Competitiveness Rankings and Shows Strong Growth

Photo:WAM

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is continuing to shine as one of the world’s most competitive and successful countries in 2025. Its strong performance in many international and regional rankings shows how well the country’s development plans, government efficiency, and economy are working. It also reflects the high quality of life the UAE offers to its citizens and residents.

In the IMD World Competitiveness Report 2025, the UAE ranked among the top five countries in the world with a score of 96.09 out of 100. This is two positions higher than last year. The country has also maintained its position as the most competitive Arab nation for nine years in a row. The UAE was particularly strong in business, ranking third in business efficiency, second in economic performance, and fourth in government efficiency. It also led in 113 global indicators such as employment, ease of doing business, digital growth, venture capital, public-private partnerships, and energy infrastructure. This shows the country’s leadership in many areas.

On the international stage, the UAE is also gaining recognition for its soft power, which measures a country’s influence and reputation worldwide. In the Global Soft Power Index 2025, the UAE ranked tenth in the world, and the value of its national brand rose to $1.223 trillion. The UAE was first in national brand performance, fourth in future growth opportunities, and sixth in overall brand strength, reflecting its growing global influence and respect.

The country has also made great progress in human development and gender equality. According to the United Nations Human Development Index 2025, the UAE ranked 15th in the world, remaining the highest-ranked Arab nation. It also secured 13th place globally in gender equality, showing that men and women have more equal opportunities in society. The IMD World Talent Report 2025 placed the UAE in the top ten globally for the first time, ranking ninth overall, thanks to its strong workforce, skilled professionals, and workforce readiness.

In health and well-being, the UAE performed exceptionally. It topped the Global Health Inclusivity Index, scoring high in public awareness, community participation, and overall quality of life. The country also ranked second worldwide in universal healthcare coverage and was among the top five globally for people-centred healthcare systems. These rankings show that the UAE is committed to a strong, sustainable, and inclusive health sector.

The UAE is also a leader in digital transformation and innovation. In 2025, it ranked first globally in telecommunications infrastructure, digital government framework, and digital content. It also achieved third place in government service delivery and fourth in digital transformation maturity, highlighting the strength of its technology-driven government and services.

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When it comes to safety and security, the UAE was named the safest country in the world in mid-2025, scoring 85.2 out of 100 according to global safety indices. This reputation for security makes it an attractive place for living, working, and investing.

The country also remains a top destination for business and investment. The UAE was ranked as the best environment for entrepreneurship for the fourth consecutive year, and it ranked first in most key business indicators according to the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM). In 2024, the UAE attracted AED 167.6 billion ($45.6 billion) in foreign investments, ranking tenth globally. In 2025, it achieved first place in new foreign investment performance and second globally as the most attractive destination for new projects, confirming its status as a hub for innovation and business growth.

Overall, the UAE’s achievements in 2025 show its position as a global leader in competitiveness, innovation, and sustainable growth. Through smart policies, a strong business environment, advanced healthcare, cutting-edge digital systems, and a secure living environment, the UAE continues to serve as a model for development, stability, and prosperity, inspiring other nations around the world.