UAE
UAE ranks among world’s top 10 governments in global governance index
Chandler Index 2026 highlights UAE’s leadership in innovation, efficiency and future-ready governance
The UAE’s strong performance demonstrates the success of its approach in translating national ambitions into measurable global outcomes. This has been achieved through an integrated government system that combines policy efficiency, economic competitiveness, quality of life and investment in human capital, in line with the “We Are the UAE 2031” vision.
Dubai: The United Arab Emirates has strengthened its global standing by ranking among the world’s top 10 most efficient and effective governments in the Chandler Global Governance Index 2026.
The achievement reflects the country’s development model, which is based on proactivity, flexibility and future readiness. It also underscores the UAE leadership’s vision of building a forward-looking government driven by innovation, institutional efficiency and adaptability to global changes.
The UAE’s strong performance demonstrates the success of its approach in translating national ambitions into measurable global outcomes. This has been achieved through an integrated government system that combines policy efficiency, economic competitiveness, quality of life and investment in human capital, in line with the “We Are the UAE 2031” vision.
The ranking in the Chandler Index 2026 — one of the most comprehensive global benchmarks assessing government effectiveness across 133 countries — highlights the UAE’s success in developing a governance model focused on speed, flexibility and the ability to respond to change while maintaining strong global competitiveness.
Mohammed Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, said the achievement reflects the leadership vision of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the continued guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
He said the UAE has redefined government work through a model built on rapid execution, efficiency and continuous adaptability in decision-making and development.
Al Gergawi added that the UAE leadership has focused on building a government that not only manages the present but also anticipates the future, transforms challenges into opportunities and creates new pathways for growth and development.
He noted that the results in international indicators confirm the UAE’s position as one of the most efficient and flexible governments globally, attributing this to a strong focus on human capital, innovation and proactive governance.
The UAE ranked first in the Arab world and the region in overall governance, while also achieving top global rankings in several indicators, including the Government Innovation Index, the ability to identify strategic priorities, flexibility in implementing plans, and budget surplus management.
The country also ranked second globally in satisfaction with government services, adaptability and employment, reflecting the effectiveness of policies aimed at improving quality of life, enhancing government services and attracting global talent.
Additionally, the UAE placed third globally in long-term vision, coordination efficiency and institutional alignment, highlighting the strength of its integrated governance framework and long-term strategic planning.
The Chandler Global Governance Index, published by the Chandler Institute for Governance in Singapore, evaluates governments based on seven pillars and 35 indicators. These include leadership and foresight, strong institutions and policies, financial management efficiency, market attractiveness, global influence and international engagement.
The index draws on data from international organisations such as the World Bank, the World Health Organization and the United Nations Development Programme.