UAE ranked first globally in GEM report for 4th year

Sharjah 24 – WAM: The United Arab Emirates has ranked first globally for the fourth consecutive year in the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) Report 2024/2025, securing the top spot among 56 economies.

UAE’s excellence in entrepreneurial indicators

The UAE achieved the highest position among high-income countries in 11 out of 13 key indicators, including entrepreneurial finance, government policies, education, and ease of market entry.

Minister Al Mazrouei highlights UAE’s vision

Alia bint Abdullah Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship, attributed the achievement to the UAE's forward-looking vision, which supports a robust entrepreneurial and SME ecosystem. This recognition further underscores the UAE's regional and international progress.

Investment and business-friendly policies drive success

The report highlights the UAE’s investment of US$8.7 billion in innovation and SME growth, its allowance of 100% foreign ownership of companies, and its record increase in foreign direct investment, all of which contributed to the country's entrepreneurial success.

Entrepreneurial culture and ambition in the UAE

The GEM report also noted that 67% of UAE adults are familiar with entrepreneurs or believe they have the skills to start a business, with 70% of Emiratis seeing strong opportunities to launch locally. Entrepreneurs are increasingly focused on social impact, digital technology, and global markets.

UAE ranked first in National Entrepreneurship Context Index (NECI)

The UAE also ranked first globally in the GEM’s National Entrepreneurship Context Index (NECI), supporting its vision to reach one million SMEs by 2031.