The UAE has taken the top spot worldwide for how well its financial system supports the growth and success of small and medium-sized enterprises, scoring 96.4 points in the 2026 Global Financial Inclusion Index.
The index, produced by Principal Financial Group in partnership with the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr), ranks 42 markets based on the support provided by employers, governments and financial systems. In the overall financial inclusion ranking, the UAE placed 21st.
Charles Brooke, Senior Managing Director and Head of Middle East, Central Asia and Africa at Principal Asset Management, said the first-place result reflects the strength of the country’s financial ecosystem in supporting businesses.
The UAE also performed strongly on employer support, ranking seventh globally with a score of 68.5, ahead of the global average of 65.7. It came fourth for financial guidance and support from employers, fifth for employer pay initiatives and ninth for employer-provided insurance plans.
This year’s research also looked at which markets are positioned to lead in financial technology. It assessed the priority given to fintech and digital financial infrastructure, covering measurable targets, funding commitments, implementation plans, digital public infrastructure and the integration of artificial intelligence into financial services.
Globally, financial inclusion reached a record high in 2026, with the overall score rising to 52 out of 100, the highest level since the index was launched. The report said digitalisation accelerated progress, with financial-system support emerging as the strongest driver of improvement.
News Source: WAM
