UAE Achieves Top 5 Spot in Global Quality Infrastructure Rankings for Sustainable Development
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has made significant strides in global quality standards, securing the fifth position in the 2024 Quality Infrastructure for Sustainable Development (QI4SD) Index. This remarkable jump of six places since the index’s inception by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in June 2022 underscores the country’s commitment to excellence and innovation. The QI4SD Index places the UAE in the “L” category, encompassing nations with a GDP ranging between $100 billion and $1 trillion.
A Framework for Progress
The QI4SD Index serves as a pivotal tool, combining multiple indicators to evaluate the readiness of national quality infrastructure systems to advance sustainable development goals.
The UAE’s rise in the rankings is attributed to the visionary leadership and concerted efforts of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) and its stakeholders. Key achievements include enhancements in standards, regulations, accreditation, metrology, and market surveillance. To sustain this momentum, the UAE established the National Committee for Quality Infrastructure, which provides strategic oversight and direction for quality infrastructure development.
Driving Economic Diversification and Competitiveness
Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, highlighted the significance of the UAE’s accomplishment:
“The UAE’s improved ranking reflects the leadership’s vision to strengthen supply chains, promote sustainability, and drive economic diversification. It underscores our alignment with global standards and reinforces international confidence in the country’s quality infrastructure.”
Dr. Al Jaber emphasized that a robust quality infrastructure is a cornerstone of the UAE’s National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology, known as Operation 300bn. This infrastructure plays a crucial role in attracting industrial investments and facilitating trade by eliminating technical barriers.
Strengthening Sustainability and Industrial Growth
Omar Al Suwaidi, Undersecretary of MoIAT, emphasized that the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology fosters an attractive business environment for local and international investors by enhancing the sustainability and resilience of supply chains.
“The QI4SD Index results reflect our efforts to establish a legislative and technical framework that ensures trust, safety, and innovation,” said Al Suwaidi. “We collaborate with strategic partners to continually update these frameworks, empowering industries to meet global quality and sustainability standards.”
Recognizing 2024 as a Milestone Year
Dr. Farah Al Zarooni, Assistant Undersecretary for Standards and Regulations at MoIAT and Chairperson of the National Committee for Quality Infrastructure, described 2024 as a landmark year for the UAE’s quality infrastructure.
Notable achievements include the UAE’s election to leadership roles in prominent international organizations, such as the Standards and Metrology Institute for Islamic Countries (SMIIC) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). These milestones cement the UAE’s position as a global leader in quality infrastructure, shaping the future of industrial innovation and sustainable growth.
To date, MoIAT has implemented over 27,000 standards and regulations that enhance local industries and streamline international trade.
A Catalyst for Economic Growth
The Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council (ADQCC) recognized the UAE’s first-place ranking in the MENA region and fifth globally as a testament to the country’s commitment to sustainable development.
“This achievement highlights the UAE’s success in creating a competitive business environment through advanced quality systems and standards,” said Abdulla Al Yazeedi, Acting Secretary General of ADQCC.
Building a Future-Ready Industrial Ecosystem
Established in 2020, MoIAT has been instrumental in strengthening the UAE’s industrial sector, boosting its GDP contribution, and driving sustainable industrial growth. The ministry leverages advanced technologies and Fourth Industrial Revolution solutions to support emerging industries and priority sectors.
Through strategic initiatives, such as industrial zones and policies to attract foreign investment, MoIAT is helping build a diversified, knowledge-based economy while promoting self-sufficiency and global competitiveness.
