The UAE ranked first among Arab countries and fifth globally for the quality of its roads, according to the Travel and Tourism Development Index 2024 issued by the World Economic Forum.
The report also stated that the country topped the list of Arab countries and was ninth globally in the efficiency of its port services, and 10th globally and second among Arab countries in the efficiency of its public transport.
Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, stressed that the results are a testament to the viability of the UAE’s long-term strategic plans, which present ample opportunities for growth.
He said the UAE is "committed to developing vibrant sectors and positioning the UAE as a leading destination for business and leisure. Ranking high on global indicators directly contributes to enhancing the confidence of international investors on the lookout for a reliable business environment.”
Hanan Mansour Ahli, Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, stated, “The UAE has become a benchmark for quality of roads, public transport services, and port services. This will help attract foreign investments and enhance the GDP.”
Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, ADNOC Managing Director and Group CEO, and Executive Chairman of XRG, has received the 2026 Distinguished Global Leadership Award from the Washington D.C.-based Middle East Institute (MEI).
Dubai has achieved its highest ever ranking in the Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI), climbing to seventh place, underscoring the emirate’s rise as one of the world's most influential financial hubs and its importance in the global financial system.
Global equity markets, including from the U.S., Europe and Asia, rose while oil prices fell on Wednesday, as traders cheered news of ceasefire proposals to de-escalate the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Australia's centre-left government has introduced legislation in the parliament to double penalties for fuel price gouging on Wednesday as global supply disruptions due to the Iran war triggered fuel shortages in some rural regions.
Gulf markets ended mixed on Tuesday, with Qatar extending losses while other bourses steadied as investors parsed conflicting signals on potential US-Iran talks.