The UAE has once again been ranked first globally in the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) report for the fourth year in a row, affirming its status as the best environment worldwide for entrepreneurship and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Outperforming 55 other economies, the UAE led in 11 out of 13 key indicators for high-income nations, according to expert assessments.
These indicators highlight the strength of the UAE’s institutional frameworks, with top scores in entrepreneurial financing, capital access, government policy support, and regulatory frameworks.
Visionary Leadership Behind Integrated Entrepreneurship System
Alia Abdulla Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship, attributed the UAE’s success to its strategic vision and leadership. “The UAE’s forward-looking vision has laid a comprehensive foundation for entrepreneurship and SMEs,” she said.
She emphasized that the UAE’s goal is to become the global hub for the new economy by 2031, aligning with the "We Are the UAE 2031" national agenda. This includes expanding support for digital transformation, offering tailored financing, and increasing international startup expansion opportunities.
Ongoing National Initiatives to Elevate Global Leadership
The government continues to enhance its entrepreneurial landscape with new frameworks aimed at increasing the success rate of entrepreneurs from 30% to 50% by the next decade. These frameworks foster a culture of innovation, provide integrated incentives, and equip startups with tools for sustainable growth.
Minister Al Mazrouei reiterated the commitment to reinforcing the UAE’s global leadership, noting that SMEs with high growth potential are receiving priority support to scale internationally.
$8.7 Billion Investment Powers Entrepreneurial Growth
A cornerstone of the UAE’s ongoing success is a massive $8.7 billion investment in SME development under the "Projects of the 50" initiative. This funding supports innovation, enhances the ease of doing business, and strengthens the entrepreneurial infrastructure.
Key policies such as 100% foreign ownership of businesses and record levels of foreign direct investment (FDI) have also amplified investor confidence and accelerated business formation.
A Thriving Entrepreneurial Culture with Global Outlook
The GEM report highlighted a high level of entrepreneurial awareness and ambition in the UAE:
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67% of adults personally know an entrepreneur or believe they have the skills to start a business.
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70% see strong local opportunities for entrepreneurship.
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78% of new entrepreneurs prioritize social and environmental impact alongside profit.
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75% of early-stage entrepreneurs plan to hire at least six employees in the next five years.
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80% are focused on digital integration in operations.
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55% of entrepreneurs serve international clients.
UAE Ranks #1 in National Entrepreneurship Context Index (NECI)
The UAE also topped the National Entrepreneurship Context Index (NECI), which evaluates policy frameworks, infrastructure, and support systems. This accolade reinforces the nation’s reputation for creating a business environment that fosters growth, innovation, and global competitiveness.
With a goal of reaching one million SMEs by 2031, the UAE is well on its way to becoming the world’s most dynamic hub for entrepreneurship, innovation, and investment.
