Gulf News: Dubai: The UAE ranked fifth globally in the 2026 IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook, maintaining its position as the most competitive economy in the Arab world and the Middle East and North Africa region for a tenth consecutive year, according to official data released on Thursday.

The UAE also ranked first globally in economic performance, bureaucracy efficiency and the adaptability of government policy, while leading 21 international competitiveness indicators and placing among the world's top five in 67 indicators and sub-factors.

Announcing the results, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, attributed the achievement to the wise leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the country's long-term development strategy.

"Under the leadership of my brother Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, the UAE continues to consolidate its position among the world's most competitive nations," Sheikh Mohammed said in a post on X platform.

He said the rankings reflected a national approach built on efficient institutions and the efforts of work teams across various sectors.

Sheikh Mohammed said competitiveness was not a short-term objective, 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 in citizens' trust in artificial intelligence, company creation, female representation in parliament and management of cities.

The UAE ranked third globally in indicators including international image and branding, society's access to artificial intelligence, tourism receipts, exports of goods and energy infrastructure.