Published: April 2, 2025 ✍️ By: Global Business & Innovation Desk 🌐 Source: Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) 2024/2025 | GlobalWorldCitizen.com
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially been named the #1 country in the world for entrepreneurship in 2025, according to the latest Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) report.
The UAE topped 11 out of 13 key entrepreneurship indicators, reinforcing its position as the global hub for startups, innovation, and business growth. From entrepreneurial finance to government support, the Emirates is setting the global standard for building a business-friendly ecosystem.
UAE Leads the World in Entrepreneurial Excellence
According to the GEM 2025 report, the UAE ranked #1 globally in these critical areas:
Access to Entrepreneurial Finance Government Policy & Startup Incentives Low Tax Environment & Simplified Bureaucracy World-Class Entrepreneurial Education (school + post-school) R&D Transfer & Innovation Support Pro-Business Regulations & Market Entry High-Quality Infrastructure & Logistics Entrepreneurial Culture & Social Norms
Leadership Statement: Vision Backed by Action
Alia bint Abdullah Al Mazrouei, UAE’s Minister of State for Entrepreneurship, celebrated the achievement:
“This recognition confirms the UAE’s global leadership in entrepreneurship. We’re not just building startups—we’re creating an ecosystem that enables global entrepreneurs to innovate, scale, and lead from the UAE.”
UAE: The World’s Premier Launchpad for Entrepreneurs
The UAE’s rise in global entrepreneurship rankings is the result of strategic investments, progressive policies, and a future-driven economic model.
Key Highlights:
$8.7 billion invested in innovation & SME growth via the “Projects of the 50” initiative- 100% foreign ownership of companies across most sectors
Record foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2023
67% of UAE adults know an entrepreneur or feel capable of launching a business
80% of early-stage entrepreneurs integrate digital technologies
78% of entrepreneurs prioritize sustainability and social impact
55% of startups serve global markets, enhancing UAE’s global appeal
UAE Ranked #1 in National Entrepreneurship Context Index (NECI)
The UAE also secured the top spot in the National Entrepreneurship Context Index (NECI)—GEM’s flagship metric for evaluating how effectively a country’s policies, infrastructure, and society support entrepreneurship.
This confirms that the UAE offers the world’s best environment to start, grow, and scale a business.
Vision 2031: Empowering One Million SMEs
Aligned with the “We The UAE 2031” strategy, the nation aims to:
- Become the #1 global hub for entrepreneurship
Establish one million SMEs across key sectors- Lead in digital economy, green innovation, and inclusive growth
From fintech and AI startups to sustainable enterprises, the UAE is committed to future-proofing its economy and creating limitless opportunities for global entrepreneurs.
Global Citizen Insight: Why the UAE Matters to You
For founders, digital nomads, startup investors, and global entrepreneurs, the UAE is more than a business destination — it’s a launchpad for global success.
Thinking of starting your business in 2025? The UAE might be your best move.
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