UAE Steps Forward in Global Economic Cooperation
The United Arab Emirates has taken a major step in global economic integration by officially joining the International Competition Network (ICN). Represented by the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, this move strengthens the UAE’s commitment to promoting fair competition, enhancing transparency, and aligning its market policies with international standards.
The ICN, which includes over 140 competition authorities and regulatory bodies worldwide, serves as a platform for collaboration on antitrust policies, market regulation, and governance. For the UAE, joining this prestigious network is a strategic move that reflects its ongoing efforts to modernize market regulations and create an open, competitive business environment.
Strengthening UAE’s Market Governance Framework
The UAE has long been recognized for its dynamic and diverse economy. By joining the ICN, it reaffirms its determination to prevent monopolistic practices and ensure fair market competition. This milestone complements the country’s Federal Decree-Law No. 36 of 2023 on the Regulation of Competition, which lays out a proactive legal framework for maintaining fairness and economic integrity.
The law aims to prevent anti-competitive behavior, empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and create a level playing field for all businesses. Along with the Cabinet’s decision on implementation ratios and controls, the legislation builds a transparent and responsive system that adapts to evolving global market standards.
A Vision Rooted in Transparency and Innovation
According to Safeya Al Safi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Commercial Control and Governance Sector at the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, joining the ICN marks a significant step toward enhancing transparency, fairness, and competitiveness within the national economy.
She emphasized the Ministry’s dedication to aligning with global best practices, sharing expertise with international partners, and continuously improving the enforcement of competition laws. This aligns with the UAE’s vision of building a fair and innovative business ecosystem that fosters sustainable growth and encourages entrepreneurship.
“Our commitment goes beyond compliance,” she said. “It’s about promoting innovation, supporting healthy competition, and creating an environment that benefits both businesses and consumers.”
Enhancing the UAE’s Global Economic Presence
Joining the International Competition Network also places the UAE among the most influential voices in the global economic community. Through this membership, the country can now participate in shaping future global competition policies and contribute to establishing international benchmarks for market fairness.
This strategic move enhances the UAE’s ability to exchange knowledge and collaborate with both regional and global competition authorities. It also highlights the UAE’s role as a hub for global trade, innovation, and sustainable investment, reinforcing its position as a leader in fair and forward-thinking economic practices.
Empowering Businesses and Consumers
The UAE’s membership in the ICN directly supports its long-term economic objectives — building a competitive, innovation-driven economy that supports entrepreneurs and attracts international investments. By promoting fair competition, the country aims to improve product quality, protect consumers, and expand choices in the marketplace.
Healthy competition leads to efficiency, lower prices, and better services — outcomes that strengthen consumer trust and business confidence. This, in turn, enhances the stability of the business environment and drives sustainable growth across all sectors.
Building a Fair and Competitive Business Ecosystem
The ICN provides the UAE with access to a vast network of global experts and regulatory bodies focused on policy coordination, technical training, and best practices. As part of the network, the UAE’s Ministry of Economy and Tourism can now participate in working groups that tackle crucial topics such as merger control, market dominance, and anti-competitive agreements.
This collaboration will not only boost institutional capabilities but also help develop national expertise in regulating markets and ensuring fair competition. The result is a more transparent, efficient, and innovation-driven economy that aligns with the UAE’s broader goals under its economic diversification and sustainability agenda.
Supporting SMEs and Economic Diversification
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a vital role in the UAE’s economy. Through its membership in the ICN, the UAE aims to further empower SMEs by giving them equal opportunities to thrive in a fair and regulated market.
A level playing field encourages innovation and entrepreneurship, which are key drivers of economic diversification. By adopting advanced competition practices, the UAE seeks to attract high-quality investments that contribute to productivity, sustainability, and long-term national prosperity.
Fostering Knowledge Exchange and Technical Growth
The ICN serves as more than just a policy forum—it is a platform for continuous learning and collaboration. Membership enables the UAE to benefit from global expertise, technical workshops, and research that improve regulatory and enforcement mechanisms.
Through participation in ICN programs, the Ministry can facilitate training sessions, policy discussions, and collaborative projects aimed at strengthening the country’s institutional and technical capacity. This ensures that UAE officials and policymakers stay up to date with international trends and best practices in market regulation and competition law.
Advancing the UAE’s Economic Vision
The UAE’s decision to join the ICN is closely aligned with its long-term vision for economic diversification and innovation. It reflects a commitment to building a knowledge-based economy that values transparency, good governance, and international cooperation.
The move supports the UAE’s broader strategy to transform into a global hub for business and investment, attracting both local and foreign enterprises that value stability and openness. It also enhances consumer confidence by ensuring that businesses operate under clear, fair, and transparent rules.
Reinforcing Sustainable and Inclusive Growth
Fair competition isn’t just about regulation—it’s about ensuring sustainable and inclusive economic growth. By working with the ICN, the UAE is building an environment that encourages ethical business practices, rewards innovation, and strengthens consumer protection.
This approach benefits all stakeholders — from entrepreneurs and investors to consumers and regulators. It aligns with the UAE’s ongoing efforts to create a resilient, future-ready economy capable of adapting to global changes and challenges.
Looking Ahead: UAE’s Global Leadership in Fair Competition
As a member of the International Competition Network, the UAE is now part of a global alliance that influences the direction of competition policies worldwide. This participation will allow the country to actively contribute to international discussions, shape modern economic practices, and share its own experiences as a rapidly developing economy.
The UAE’s proactive stance on market regulation and fair competition further cements its leadership in global economic governance. By continuing to evolve its policies and strengthen partnerships, the nation is well-positioned to drive progress not only within its borders but across the international economic community.
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