The UAE has secured a place among the top 35 countries globally with the largest shipping fleets, based on tonnage and capacity, according to the 2024 report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). The report also highlighted the presence of three other Arab countries—Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar—on the list.

Data from the Statistical Centre for the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC-Stat) further revealed that Gulf container ports are making waves globally. In 2024, ten Gulf ports were ranked among the 70 most efficient ports worldwide, out of 405 ports evaluated. The Gulf commercial fleet accounted for 54.2% of the Arab region’s total commercial fleet last year, with most GCC nations surpassing the Arab average in the Liner Shipping Connectivity Index, which recorded 100.5 in 2023.

Among the Gulf’s seaports, two were recognized as high-production ports, exceeding 4 million containers in output, while eight others were classified as medium-production ports, with outputs ranging from 0.5 million to 4 million containers. With over 25 major seaports in the Gulf region, the sustainable development of port infrastructure has positioned the region as a global logistics leader.

GCC-Stat emphasized that Gulf ports and maritime navigation play a vital strategic role as key hubs for international shipping companies and logistics services. The Unified Maritime Operations Centre, a significant collaborative achievement among GCC countries, has also been instrumental in ensuring maritime security and freedom of navigation across the region.

Meanwhile, the UAE’s competitive edge continues to shine globally. In the IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook 2024, the country climbed three spots to rank seventh globally, with standout performances in economic performance (second globally), government efficiency (fourth), and business environment efficiency (tenth).

In addition, the UAE earned first place globally in 223 competitive indicators and ranked in the top 10 for 661 indicators across various sectors. The nation also maintained its top position in the 2023/2024 Global Entrepreneurship Monitor report, the Human Development Index for the region, and several rankings related to infrastructure, civil aviation, and public transport efficiency.

The UAE’s achievements reflect its forward-thinking leadership, legislative reforms, and focus on advanced technology, all aimed at improving the quality of life for its citizens and residents.