UAE Ranks First Globally in Economic Performance

The UAE has reinforced its position as one of the world’s most competitive economies, ranking first globally in economic performance and fifth in overall competitiveness in the IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook 2026.

The country also maintained its position as the most competitive economy in the region for the tenth consecutive year. The achievement reflects the UAE’s clear economic vision, efficient government institutions and ability to adapt to changing global conditions.

The UAE ranked first worldwide across 21 indicators and placed among the top five in 67 measures. It also secured a position among the world’s top 10 countries in 118 indicators, demonstrating strong performance across economic, government, business and infrastructure-related areas.

Among the indicators in which the UAE ranked first were employment, government policy adaptability, international experience, national culture, value systems and air transport quality. The country also ranked second in new business creation, city management and public trust in artificial intelligence.

The UAE achieved third place in areas including access to artificial intelligence, tourism revenues, exports of goods, energy infrastructure and national branding. It also ranked fourth globally in government efficiency, private-sector investment in AI, and legal and regulatory frameworks.

The IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook evaluates 70 economies based on 342 indicators across four key pillars: economic performance, government efficiency, business efficiency and infrastructure. The report combines economic data with insights from business executives to assess how effectively countries create sustainable growth and prosperity.

The results highlight the strength and flexibility of the UAE’s development model and its continued commitment to creating an attractive environment for investors, entrepreneurs and skilled professionals.

For businesses, the UAE’s strong economic performance offers access to a stable, competitive and future-focused market supported by efficient regulations, advanced infrastructure and a growing culture of innovation.