The United Arab Emirates has surged 11 places to rank 15th globally in the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) 2025 Human Development Index (HDI), reaffirming its leadership among nations with very high human development.
Out of 193 countries, the UAE outperformed major economies including Canada, the United States, Japan, and Australia. It remains the only Arab nation in the top 20, highlighting the country’s long-term strategy focused on human wellbeing, innovation, and sustainability.
The UAE achieved an HDI score of 0.94 in the 2025 report, which emphasized the importance of human potential in the age of artificial intelligence. Key indicators include a life expectancy of 82.9 years, 15.6 expected years of schooling, and a gross national income per capita of $71,142 — all contributing to the UAE’s alignment with global Sustainable Development Goals.
Health Minister Abdulrahman Al Owais attributed the achievement to sustained investments in high-quality, innovative healthcare.
Education Minister Sara Al Amiri noted the country’s future-focused policies designed to equip youth for an AI-driven world.
Hanan Mansour Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, said the UAE’s rise reflects a human-centric development model built on education, health, and innovation.
The report also spotlighted the UAE’s global position in attracting AI talent, ranking third worldwide in net migration of AI-skilled professionals in 2023. As the world adapts to rapid technological change, the UNDP stressed the need for inclusive strategies that empower people while integrating AI into daily life.
The UAE’s performance underscores its growing status as a model for balanced, forward-looking development in an increasingly digital world.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
