The UAE has once again demonstrated its global standing by ranking first in 223 competitiveness indicators in 2024, according to Gulf Today. This marks a significant jump from 215 indicators in 2023 and highlights the country’s commitment to continuous progress.

The nation also secured a spot among the top five globally in 444 indicators, a rise from 406 last year, and ranked within the top 10 in 661 indicators, compared to 604 in 2023. This upward trajectory reflects the UAE’s focus on modernising its laws, fostering investments, leveraging advanced technology, and improving quality of life for its residents.

In the IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook 2024, the UAE climbed to seventh place globally, excelling in categories like economic performance (2nd), government efficiency (4th), and business efficiency (10th). Over 90 indicators in this report placed the UAE as a global leader.

The UAE also maintained its top position in the Human Development Index regionally and ranked 17th globally out of 193 countries. In entrepreneurship, the nation was ranked first globally in the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor report for the third consecutive year.

The UAE’s strategic focus on infrastructure and tourism also paid off. It ranked first globally in air transport infrastructure quality in the Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024 and achieved top rankings in road quality, public transport efficiency, and port services. Additionally, it was ranked 18th globally in travel and tourism development and first in the Middle East and North Africa.

Foreign investments remain a key strength for the UAE. According to a report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the UAE ranked second globally after the United States in new foreign direct investment (FDI) projects, registering $30.7 billion in FDI inflows in 2023.

In digital services, the UAE achieved first place globally in the ICT Infrastructure Index and climbed 34 positions in the Human Capital Index within the United Nations E-Government Survey 2024.

Dr. Thani Bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, noted during a press conference that hosting the AIM Congress 2025 in Abu Dhabi further solidifies the UAE’s position as a global hub for trade and investment. The event aims to attract over 25,000 participants, including startups and AI companies, underscoring the country’s focus on innovation and sustainable growth.