IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook 2026 ranks UAE as regional leader for 10th consecutive year.
Dubai: The UAE ranked fifth globally in the 2026 IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook, retaining its position as the most competitive economy in the Arab world and the Middle East and North Africa region for the tenth consecutive year, according to official data released on Thursday.
Announcing the results, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said the achievement reflects the wise leadership of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the country’s long-term development strategy.
“Under the leadership of my brother Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE continues to strengthen its position among the world’s most competitive nations,” Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said in a post on the X platform.
He said the rankings reflect a national approach based on efficient institutions and the efforts of teams across various sectors.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said competitiveness is not a short-term goal, but an ongoing effort aimed at improving quality of life, strengthening global confidence in the UAE, and supporting the country’s drive towards greater prosperity and leadership. “The UAE is moving steadily towards a more prosperous and pioneering future,” he said.
According to the IMD report, the UAE ranked first globally in areas including economic performance, absence of bureaucracy, adaptability of government policies, employment, international experience, national culture, and air transport quality. It also placed second globally in indicators such as citizens’ trust in artificial intelligence, company creation, female representation in parliament, and city management.
The UAE ranked third in indicators including international image and branding, access to artificial intelligence in society, tourism receipts, exports of goods, and energy infrastructure.
