The UAE has achieved 5th place globally and 1st in the Arab world for road quality, and 10th globally and 2nd in the Arab world for the effectiveness of public transport services. The UAE also ranked 9th globally and 1st in the Arab world for the effectiveness of port services, according to the 2024 Travel and Tourism Development Index report released today by the World Economic Forum. The report measures a range of factors and policies that contribute to a sustainable and resilient environment for the travel and tourism sector, reflecting the notable progress in the country’s efforts to enhance its infrastructure.
Energy and Infrastructure Minister Suhail Mohammed Al Mazrouei stated in a press release that "the remarkable results achieved by the country reflect the visionary aspirations of the wise leadership and the ambitious plans set to ensure continuous progress in various sectors, particularly those related to infrastructure, roads, and transport." He pointed out that "these achievements represent an affirmation of confidence in the long-term strategic plans being implemented by the country, which are based on in-depth studies and precise analyses of future forecasts, enhancing the UAE’s ability to adapt to global changes and effectively seize future opportunities."
He said, "These results translate the high efficiency that the country enjoys in these sectors and reflect its position as one of the leading countries in infrastructure, alongside its capability for qualitative development and its continuous efforts to improve infrastructure and invest in technology and innovation to enhance the efficiency of transport services."
He added that "these achievements are a testament to the proactive approach and strategic planning followed by the UAE in various fields, confirming its ambition to become one of the most important centers for innovation and excellence globally, emphasizing its commitment to continue enhancing vital sectors and supporting innovation, which is a key driver of economic growth and the UAE’s status as a leading global destination for business and tourism."
He clarified that "these results are the fruit of joint efforts between various sectors in the country, which focused on the role of massive investments in modernizing roads and expanding public transport and port networks, in line with the best international standards, positioning the UAE among the best globally, and it will continue its hard work to achieve global leadership by the UAE Centennial 2071, contributing to economic growth and improving quality of life."
He continued: "Regarding ports, the UAE has demonstrated high efficiency in their management and operation, enabling it to achieve 9th place globally, making it a primary contributor and a vital hub in global trade. The prestigious position achieved in these global indicators directly contributes to enhancing trust among international investors and companies seeking a reliable and effective business environment, in addition to boosting tourism attraction."
For her part, Hanan Mansour Al-Ahly, Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center, stated, "Year after year, with the efforts of federal and local teams working in unison with one spirit, the UAE continues to occupy a prestigious position on the global map across various vital sectors, in line with the aspirations of the wise leadership." She added that "the results of the 2024 Travel and Tourism Development Index report have proven the country’s superiority in infrastructure and adherence to the best global standards and practices, making it a role model in road quality, public transport effectiveness, and port services, which will further support attracting foreign investments and global companies and enhance GDP."
