The UAE has secured the top global ranking for financial system support for small and medium-sized businesses, scoring 96.4 points in the 2026 Global Financial Inclusion Index.
UAE tops SME support ranking
The index, produced by Principal Financial Group in partnership with the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr), assessed 42 markets on support provided by employers, governments and financial systems.
The UAE ranked first for how effectively its financial system supports SME growth and success. However, it placed 21st in the overall index.
Charles Brooke, Senior Managing Director and Head of Middle East, Central Asia and Africa at Principal Asset Management, said the top ranking reflects the strength of the UAE’s financial ecosystem in supporting businesses.
UAE ranks seventh for employer support
The country also secured seventh place globally for employer support, scoring 68.5 points against a global average of 65.7.
The UAE ranked fourth for employer-provided financial guidance, fifth for pay initiatives and ninth for employer-provided insurance plans.
Digital finance drives global progress
The 2026 research also assessed countries’ readiness to become future fintech leaders, looking at digital infrastructure, funding commitments, artificial intelligence and implementation plans.
Global financial inclusion reached a record high of 52 out of 100 in 2026, the highest score since the index began. The report identified digitalisation and financial-system support as key drivers of progress.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
