The UAE has secured top global rankings in several digital transformation benchmarks, reflecting its continued progress in technology adoption, smart infrastructure, and AI readiness.
Telecom infrastructure
The UAE ranked first globally in the Telecommunications Infrastructure Index of the United Nations E-Government Survey 2024, achieving a full score of 100 percent. The result highlights the efficiency and broad reach of the country’s digital networks.
According to the Speedtest Global Index by Ookla, the UAE also maintained its position as the world leader in mobile internet speed for 12 consecutive months, from July 2024 to June 2025. In June, the UAE recorded an average download speed of 546.14 Mbps—well ahead of global competitors.
Smart city recognition
The country’s cities also gained international recognition in the IMD Smart City Index 2025. Dubai ranked fourth globally and first in the Arab world, while Abu Dhabi came in fifth. These rankings reflect advancements in digital public services, smart infrastructure, and urban quality of life.
In 2024, the UAE Government completed 173.7 million digital transactions across 1,419 services, reaching over 57 million beneficiaries. Satisfaction levels with these services stood at 91 percent.
Strong AI readiness
The UAE also led the region in the Government AI Readiness Index 2024, issued by Oxford Insights. The index evaluated 193 countries based on government efficiency, data infrastructure, and tech sector development.
A report from the Interregional Centre for Strategic Analysis in Abu Dhabi noted the UAE’s progress toward regional leadership in artificial intelligence, driven by investment in innovation, research, and skills.
Industry experts said the UAE is setting new global benchmarks in digital innovation.
Rasha Abdo, Director of Strategic Client Team for MENA at Infobip, said: “The UAE continues to enhance its global standing in AI and digital transformation.”
She added that the top rank in the Telecommunications Infrastructure Index reflects the strength of national digital networks.
Abdo also pointed to initiatives such as Dubai Government’s 360 Services policy, saying the country is “setting new global standards in digital service delivery across both the public and private sectors.”
She added, “The UAE’s transformative framework is a leading model in providing people-first digital services, supported by AI and automated technologies at the government level.”
Amjad Al Sabbagh, Group Vice-President for MEA at Sprinklr, said the UAE’s digital ecosystem has evolved beyond simple tech adoption. “Aspirations now go beyond speed to include a human dimension and the anticipation of future needs,” he said.
He noted that the goal to double the digital economy’s contribution to GDP by 2030 aligns with forecasts that AI will account for 13.6 percent of GDP, or approximately US$100 billion. He described this as a significant step toward economic diversification and long-term innovation.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
