The United Arab Emirates has achieved a major milestone in global economic performance, ranking fifth in the 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking. Outpacing major economies such as the US, Germany, and Sweden, the UAE’s achievement was reviewed during a UAE Cabinet meeting chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, held at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi.
Global Competitiveness: UAE’s Rise to the Top 5
During the meeting, Sheikh Mohammed praised the nation’s ascent from 28th position in 2009 to 5th globally in 2025, highlighting strengths in government efficiency, legislative adaptability, and an overall pro-business environment. He credited the Competitiveness Centre established 14 years ago for uniting federal efforts and driving long-term progress.
“This achievement is a testament to years of consistent effort. With the vision of my brother, Mohamed bin Zayed, our future will continue to be even brighter and stronger,” said Sheikh Mohammed.
The UAE ranked:
- 1st globally in the absence of bureaucracy
- 2nd globally in government policy adaptability
- 4th globally in government efficiency
It also led in 22 global indicators, including employment rate, digital transformation in companies, availability of global expertise, and female parliamentary representation. The country placed second in social cohesion and flexible residency, and third in digital tool usage and healthcare infrastructure.
Cabinet Reviews Trade Achievements and Industrial Growth
The Cabinet also reviewed the 2024 report of the Higher Commission for Free Trade Negotiations, confirming the UAE’s deepening role in global trade with 27 signed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs)—eight of which are already in force.
Key economic achievements included:
- AED 5.23 trillion ($1.42 trillion) in total foreign trade (2024)
- AED 440 billion ($119.9 billion) in non-oil exports, up 16.3% YoY
- AED 684.3 billion ($186.4 billion) in re-exports
- AED 113 billion ($30.8 billion) in foreign direct investment (2023)
The Cabinet also reviewed updates from the Emirates Council for Balanced Development, chaired by Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Progress in Qidfa, Masfout, and Al Rams was noted, with community markets, ecotourism projects, and the “Jothoor” programme supporting female Emirati artisans.
Additionally, the Cabinet highlighted the widespread success of the UAE Digital Identity system, with over 11 million users, enabling 600 million secure logins and 2.6 billion digital transactions.
Strategic Initiatives and International Engagements
The Cabinet approved several national and international initiatives, reinforcing the UAE’s strategic positioning:
- National Maritime Navigation Centre for marine safety and environmental oversight
- Restructuring of the Higher Committee for AML/CFT, chaired by Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed
- Draft law to protect UAE cultural heritage and promote awareness
- Expansion of climate action via the restructured UAE Council for Climate Action, supporting the Net Zero 2050 strategy, with 100 million mangroves to be planted and biodiversity areas increased
Sheikh Mohammed also highlighted the fourth edition of Make it in the Emirates, which drew 122,000+ visitors and enabled:
- AED 168 billion ($45.7 billion) in local manufacturing procurement opportunities
- AED 11 billion ($3 billion) in new industrial project agreements
- AED 40 billion ($10.9 billion) in SME financing over the next five years
Global Diplomacy and New International Agreements
In line with its expanding diplomatic footprint, the Cabinet ratified 13 new international agreements, including:
- Economic and visa partnerships with Montenegro, Vietnam, Uganda, and New Zealand
- 36 new MoUs, including with Hong Kong and the Eurasian Economic Union
- Approval to open UAE embassies in Togo, Gabon, Cameroon, and Tajikistan, and a Consulate General in Miami, USA
The Cabinet also approved UAE participation in 13 major international events, including hosting the Central Banks Data Cooperation Group Summit.
