UAE tops entrepreneurship rankings as it is bolstered by foreign ownership rules, ease of funding and Government initiatives
The UAE has been named the best place in the world for entrepreneurs as foreign ownership rules, government support and finance options make it easier than ever to launch a business in the country.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been named the best country for entrepreneurs in 2025, securing the top position in the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) Report for the fourth consecutive year. This recognition underscores the UAE’s commitment to fostering a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem. citeturn0search3
In the GEM assessment, the UAE excelled among high-income countries, ranking first in 11 out of 13 key indicators that evaluate the institutional frameworks supporting entrepreneurship. These indicators include financing for entrepreneurial projects, ease of access to funds, supportive government policies, and the integration of entrepreneurship into education systems. citeturn0search3
Alia bint Abdullah Al Mazrouei, the UAE’s Minister of State for Entrepreneurship, highlighted that this achievement reflects the nation’s forward-thinking vision and dedication to building an integrated ecosystem for entrepreneurship and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). She emphasized that the UAE’s consistent top ranking demonstrates its commitment to providing an attractive environment for startups, aligning with global best practices, and positioning the country as a global hub for the new economy in line with the “We the UAE 2031” vision. citeturn0search3
The GEM report also noted the UAE’s allowance of 100% foreign ownership of companies and a consistent increase in foreign direct investment, which reached record levels in 2023. Additionally, approximately 67% of adults in the UAE are aware of entrepreneurs or believe they possess the necessary skills to start a business, indicating a high level of entrepreneurial awareness and ambition within the population. citeturn0search3
This accolade reaffirms the UAE’s status as a leading destination for entrepreneurs, offering a supportive environment that encourages innovation, investment, and the growth of SMEs.
