CEOs in the UAE are showing remarkable optimism about the global economy, according to Arthur D. Little’s 2025 CEO Insights Survey.
A striking 85% expect improvement over the next three to five years—up from 61% in 2024—making them among the most confident business leaders worldwide.
This outlook is paired with decisive action. UAE executives are prioritising sustainability, workforce development, and operational excellence at levels that outpace global peers. Notably, 60% of UAE CEOs cite reskilling as a key strategic priority—well above the global average of 49%—highlighting a proactive approach to talent transformation.
UAE companies also anticipate an average 8.8% annual productivity boost over the next three years, and are dedicating 1.8% of revenues to initiatives aimed at improving efficiency—again exceeding global benchmarks.
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors are no longer seen as compliance checkboxes. Thirty percent of UAE CEOs now prioritise ESG over other strategic initiatives, more than double the global figure. Increasingly, ESG is being integrated into core business strategy to unlock long-term value and competitive edge.
Strategic agility is another hallmark of UAE leadership. In response to geopolitical shifts and evolving growth dynamics, 83% of UAE CEOs have revised or plan to revise their business strategies—compared to just 59% globally.
“UAE CEOs have translated confidence into bold action,”
said Thomas Kuruvilla, Managing Partner at Arthur D. Little Middle East & India.
“This is not short-term positioning but a long-term strategy for regional and global competitiveness.”
Francesco Marsella, Global Leader for Growth and Transformation at Arthur D. Little, added,
“CEOs now see change as an opportunity. They’re not just adapting—they’re shaping the future.”
News Source: Emirates News Agency
