High living standards and a tax-free environment attract global executives, enhancing the diversity of the workforce.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has achieved a historic milestone by entering the top 10 countries globally for executive talent competitiveness for the first time. This breakthrough was marked in the 2025 IMD World Talent Ranking, where the UAE jumped eight places from 17th to 9th position among 69 countries analyzed, making it the fastest improvement ever recorded in the ranking’s history. The country now stands alongside global talent powerhouses such as Switzerland, Luxembourg, Iceland, and Hong Kong, and leads the Middle East in this prestigious index.
This advancement reflects the UAE’s strategic focus on building a globally competitive talent ecosystem. Key to this rise are the country’s talent-friendly government policies, strong educational infrastructure, and the focus on technological skills that align with the UAE’s economic transformation away from oil dependence. The availability of skilled labor and the readiness of the talent pool have notably improved — the UAE ranks first globally in workforce readiness, indicating its talent pool is exceptionally well-prepared to meet business needs worldwide. Additionally, the UAE secured the top spot for labor force growth, the availability of competent executives, and international student mobility, which IMD recognizes as increasingly vital in shaping future talent strategies.
Attractiveness to global executives is driven by high standards of living, a tax-free income environment, family stability, and a strong governance framework. The UAE also benefits from its ability to attract high-skill international workers, including doctorate-level talent, and a growing pool of inbound students contributing to the diversity and quality of its workforce. According to Arturo Bris, director of IMD’s World Competitiveness Center, the UAE’s adaptability to evolving labor market needs and proactive investments in talent development have markedly increased the perception of the country as a place where companies can find exceptional talent. This also signals strong opportunities for global investors and businesses considering the UAE for expansion.
Read more: UAE tops global rankings in AI readiness, telecom infrastructure, digital content
The UAE’s economic indicators echo this trend, with GDP growth of 3.9 percent year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, highlighting sustained economic momentum complementing its talent competitiveness. The government’s overhaul of visa programs, including attractive golden visas, has been pivotal in boosting the influx and retention of foreign talent. This commitment is part of a broader vision to position the Emirates as a knowledge and innovation hub by 2031, reflecting long-term strategies to enhance global competitiveness through human capital development.
The UAE stands out in the IMD rankings as a model for talent competitiveness in the Arab world. It features a dynamic private sector, excellent academic standards, and innovative policies. This reputation attracts global executives, multinational companies, and startups looking for specialized skills and a responsive business environment. Other countries in the region, including Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, are also making progress, the report highlighted.
Read more on Economy Middle East
