UAE tops global government trust index in 2026
According to the Edelman Trust Barometer report published by the Edelman Foundation in New York for 2026, the United Arab Emirates ranked first worldwide in the government trust index. This highlights the country’s strong reputation for transparency, fulfilment of promises, legality, and respect for citizens.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum emphasized in his social media statement that the trust was earned over years of truthful communication, accountability in delivering promises, legitimacy of achievements, and honesty of laws. This outcome reflects the nation’s stability and growing authority on the global stage.
This ranking may contribute to further strengthening the investment climate and enhancing the UAE’s role as a leading state partner regionally and globally.
The high level of trust in the government of the United Arab Emirates is the result of a consistent governance strategy focused on efficiency, digital transformation of public services, and open engagement with society. In recent years, the country has invested heavily in institutional resilience, reducing bureaucratic barriers and improving the overall quality of government services.
A key factor behind this trust is the leadership’s long-term strategic vision for economic and social development. Predictability, clear regulations, and policy continuity have made the UAE an attractive destination not only for international investors but also for millions of expatriates who choose the country as a base for living and doing business.
Against the backdrop of declining trust in public institutions across many parts of the world, the UAE’s top position in the Edelman Trust Barometer stands out. It illustrates how stability, transparency, and accountable governance can serve as a competitive advantage in the global economy and reinforce a country’s influence on the international stage.