UAE Enters Global Top 10 in Soft Power
- 21.02.2025
- Posted by: Uwe Hohmann
- Category: Dubai
The UAE has secured its position among the world’s most influential economies, ranking 10th in the 2025 Global Soft Power Index. This recognition comes from 173,000 business leaders and policymakers who assessed 193 countries on economic strength, business environment, and global influence. This ranking confirms what market trends have shown: the UAE has become one of the world’s leading centers for international trade and investment.
Business Environment and Economic Strength
The UAE now ranks second globally for ease of doing business, with 200,000 new companies registered in 2024 alone. This growth stems from practical improvements in business regulations, including:
- Reformed foreign ownership laws
- Expanded economic free zones
- Streamlined business registration
- Enhanced digital infrastructure
The country’s seventh-place ranking for economic strength shows in its numbers: non-oil foreign trade exceeded AED 2.8 trillion in 2024, highlighting successful economic diversification into technology, renewable energy, financial services, and tourism.
International Business Advantages
International companies choosing the UAE gain immediate advantages from its position between the European and Asian markets. The country’s modern ports, efficient customs, and extensive trade relationships open doors to major global markets. Companies also benefit from the UAE’s strong financial system, which combines stable banking, competitive tax policies, and ready access to international funding. Advanced digital networks, reliable utilities, and a deep pool of skilled professionals support day-to-day operations. These practical advantages, combined with high-quality office spaces and infrastructure, make the UAE particularly attractive for businesses looking to expand their global presence.
Technology and Innovation
The UAE’s ninth-place ranking in global technology and innovation reflects its substantial investment in digital transformation. Businesses entering the market find a sophisticated telecommunications network that supports seamless operations. Government services are digitized for speed and efficiency, while advanced payment systems facilitate smooth financial transactions. The government actively supports technology companies through targeted initiatives and incentives, creating an environment where innovation thrives, and tech businesses can scale quickly.
Managing Market Entry: Common Challenges and Solutions
Setting up business operations in the UAE requires careful navigation of several key decisions. Most companies initially face the challenge of choosing between different setup zones – each with distinct advantages and regulatory requirements. Location selection adds another layer of complexity, as factors like proximity to customers, transportation links, and cost variations between free zones and mainland areas can significantly impact business success. The regulatory landscape presents its own hurdles, from securing the right licenses to structuring operations for tax efficiency and compliance.
TME Services guides companies through these decisions with practical, tested solutions. Our team handles the complexities of business licensing, helping you select the most advantageous structure for your operations.
We streamline visa processing and manage accounting requirements, tax registration, and filing while ensuring full compliance with local regulations. This allows you to focus on your core business while we handle the technical aspects of your UAE establishment.
Comprehensive UAE Business Solutions
Our comprehensive services are designed to support you every step of your business journey in the UAE:
- Company Formation: We guide you through all aspects of setting up your company, whether in a free zone or on the mainland, ensuring you choose the best option for your business.
- Visa and Emirates ID Services: We streamline the process of securing visas and Emirates IDs for you and your employees, allowing you to focus on your business operations.
- Accounting: Our team ensures your business stays compliant with local financial regulations, which is crucial for maintaining good standing in Dubai’s business community.
- Tax: We help manage Dubai’s tax environment, ensuring your business remains compliant while optimizing your tax position.
- Business Consulting: Leveraging our deep understanding of Dubai’s market, we provide valuable insights and help you develop effective strategies to succeed.
Visit our services page to learn more about everything we do.
