The United Arab Emirates has solidified its reputation as one of the most attractive destinations for investment and business globally, thanks to its open economic system that offers a safe and inclusive working environment, appealing to talents and capital from various nationalities. This aligns with the country’s commitment to coexistence, openness, and equal opportunities.
Official data indicates that the UAE has become the number one global destination for wealthy individuals and investors, propelled by a series of pioneering legislative and economic reforms that have enhanced the business climate, providing high levels of trust and stability.
Since the introduction of federal law permitting 100% foreign ownership of commercial enterprises, the UAE has seen unparalleled growth in the number of operating businesses. Over the past five years, the number of companies has surged by 235%, reaching over 1.3 million by the end of the first half of this year, up from about 400,000 in the same period in 2020.
The modernization of more than 80% of economic legislation in the last three years has led to significant advancements in business development and diversification across sectors, aligning with the country’s goals toward a knowledge-based economy and advanced technologies.
The effectiveness of the open economic system is evident in the rise of registered brands, both national and international, totaling approximately 402,311 by the end of September 2025. This reflects a global confidence in the UAE’s investment environment.
Several senior officials and investors in the UAE have stated that the nation’s system, which promotes tolerance, is a cornerstone of economic success, extending its benefits across different production and service sectors and enhancing the country’s attractiveness to global corporations, entrepreneurs, and innovative talents.
Saif Al Quraishi, Deputy Chairman of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, emphasized that the UAE offers a comprehensive environment for companies, including startups, to expand their operations and explore new growth opportunities, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence in services and systems, in collaboration with the government. He noted that this government support fosters company growth and attracts safe and effective partnerships and innovations in the country.
He added that the government consistently aims to involve the private sector in shaping regulations that impact the business environment and facilitate corporate growth, highlighting international fairs such as “Expand North Star,” which is the largest exhibition for startups and investors. This event recently attracted participation from over 2,000 companies across 180 countries and 1,200 investors managing assets exceeding $1.1 trillion, enabling businesses and investors to explore the local market in Dubai and the UAE while investing in diverse global markets.
Yusuf Ali, Chairman of Lulu International Group, shared his insights from over fifty years in the UAE, recognizing the country as a global exemplar of tolerance, coexistence, and mutual respect. He noted that throughout decades, the UAE has successfully established values of compassion, inclusivity, and unity from the era of the founding fathers to the current leadership generation.
He pointed out that the UAE is home to more than 200 nationalities that live and work harmoniously, reflecting a robust leadership vision that values diversity and builds bridges between cultures rather than barriers. According to Ali, this diversity is a primary strength fueling the country’s progress and global standing.
He further described Lulu Group as a model of this environment, with employees from over 47 nationalities collaborating in a spirit of understanding and appreciation, asserting that tolerance in the UAE is a deeply rooted way of life and conveys a humanitarian message to the world.
Dr. Brian Chiygar, honorary president and senior advisor to the UAE-Singapore Business Council, stated that the ease of the business environment and the advancement of economic systems and legislation in the UAE are key factors driving Singaporean companies to choose the country as their primary destination for regional expansion.
He explained that close cooperation with governmental bodies in the UAE has strengthened the presence of Singaporean companies in infrastructure, real estate, engineering, and design sectors. Around 700 Singaporean companies have established their regional headquarters in the UAE, indicating strong confidence in the Emirati investment climate. He praised the ambitious economic vision that has positioned the UAE as a key partner for Singapore in the region, serving as a central hub for business and trade between Asia and the Middle East.
Sam Armani, Senior Vice President of Business Development at Mimic, a global artificial intelligence firm, affirmed that the economic environment in the UAE exemplifies global openness and ease of doing business. She noted that this was crucial in the company’s decision to expand operations within the country by establishing a new entity in the capital, Abu Dhabi.
Armani highlighted that Mimic chose Abu Dhabi as its regional hub due to its advanced digital infrastructure, flexible economic policies, and comprehensive governmental support for innovative companies in technology and artificial intelligence, making it an ideal environment for developing advanced solutions in autonomous mobility and managing intelligent systems across sectors like oil, gas, ports, and shipbuilding.