According to the Edelman Trust Barometer, the UAE has secured its position as the world’s third most trusted country, with a significant level of trust across various institutions including the government, business, NGOs, and media. The survey, which focused on innovation and surveyed 32,000 individuals across 28 countries, highlights the UAE’s commitment to embracing innovation as a driver of progress and development.
The UAE’s focus on innovation has been instrumental in securing its position as a trusted nation. Initiatives such as appointing a Minister of AI in 2017 and establishing the Mohammed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence in 2019 underscore the country’s dedication to fostering technological advancement.
With a trust score of 74, the UAE ranks third globally, behind China (78) and India (76). This high level of trust reflects the confidence of both citizens and international observers in the UAE’s commitment to innovation and progress.
Government-Business Partnership: The survey also highlights the UAE’s model of government-business collaboration, which serves as a blueprint for other nations. While the government is trusted to integrate innovation into society (82%), there is a significant opportunity for businesses to partner with the government to further build trust in technology-led changes.
Global Comparisons: Globally, the demand for business-government partnerships around innovation has increased significantly over the past decade. In the UAE, 76% of respondents expressed trust in technology-led changes if businesses collaborate with the government, compared to 60% globally.
Challenges and Concerns: Despite the positive outlook, the survey also identifies areas of concern, including a decline in trust for companies headquartered in global powers. Additionally, there is widespread worry about the politicization of science, with many respondents expressing concerns about government influence on scientific research.
Conclusion: The UAE’s ranking as the third most trusted nation globally underscores its commitment to fostering innovation and progress. By prioritizing collaboration between government and businesses, the UAE serves as a beacon of trust and reliability in an ever-changing world. As the country continues to invest in innovation, it is poised to lead the way in shaping a brighter future for generations to come.
