The United Arab Emirates has cemented its place among the world’s most competitive and innovative nations in 2025, achieving top global rankings across key indicators that highlight the strength of its economy, governance, and quality of life.
In the IMD World Competitiveness Report 2025, the UAE secured a spot in the global top five with a score of 96.09 out of 100, advancing two positions from last year and retaining its lead in the Arab region for the ninth consecutive year. It ranked second in economic performance, third in business efficiency, and fourth in government efficiency, while also topping 113 global indicators, from employment and digital transformation to energy infrastructure.
The country’s global influence was further reinforced in the 2025 Global Soft Power Index, where it placed tenth overall, with its national brand value rising to $1.223 trillion. It also advanced to 15th globally in the UN Human Development Index and ranked 13th in gender equality, maintaining its position as the highest in the Arab world.
In healthcare, the UAE led the Global Health Inclusivity Index, ranked second in universal coverage, and was among the top five for people-centred systems. Its leadership in digital governance was also reaffirmed, taking first place globally in telecommunications infrastructure and digital government frameworks.
Safety and stability added to its appeal, with Numbeo naming the UAE the safest country in the world in mid-2025. On the economic front, it remained the top environment for entrepreneurship, entered the global top ten for talent competitiveness, and ranked among the leading destinations for foreign direct investment.
These achievements underscore the UAE’s sustained progress as a global hub for innovation, investment, and sustainable development.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
