With “AA” and “Aa2” ratings from S&P, Fitch, and Moody’s, the UAE joins a select group of nations globally recognised for sound economic governance, fiscal discipline, and long-term stability.
The United Arab Emirates has secured strong sovereign credit ratings from the world’s three leading credit rating agencies—S&P Global, Moody’s Investors Service, and Fitch Ratings—solidifying its status as one of the most fiscally resilient and economically sound countries in the world.
On June 17, S&P Global assigned the UAE a sovereign credit rating of “AA” with a stable outlook, a view echoed by Moody’s, which reaffirmed its “Aa2” rating, also with a stable outlook, in its 2025 annual review. Fitch Ratings followed on June 24, affirming the UAE’s “AA-” rating and stable outlook.
This consensus among global credit institutions reflects widespread confidence in the UAE’s long-term fiscal policies, economic diversification efforts, and resilience amid global and regional volatility.
Visionary Leadership Behind the Ratings
Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance, hailed the milestone as a testament to the UAE’s solid economic governance and its ability to implement effective and forward-looking policies.
“These ratings affirm deep-rooted international confidence in the resilience of our national economy and the efficiency of our fiscal policies,” Sheikh Maktoum said.
He credited the achievement to the comprehensive economic vision of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the unwavering support of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai.
A Model of Fiscal Discipline and Diversification
The UAE’s economic model, rooted in transparency, fiscal discipline, and diversification, continues to yield dividends. The government’s shift toward increasing non-oil revenues, supporting non-oil sectors, and investing in productive industries is reshaping the nation’s economic landscape.
All three rating agencies highlighted the UAE’s robust fiscal buffers, sovereign wealth assets, and its strategic commitment to risk management and macroeconomic stability:
- S&P Global emphasised the UAE’s strong government financial position and sovereign wealth as key to mitigating regional geopolitical risk.
- Moody’s lauded ongoing reforms to diversify non-oil revenue and expand the economy’s appeal to foreign investors and skilled professionals.
- Fitch underscored the UAE’s resilience to short-term disruptions, citing its substantial fiscal and external buffers.
Enhancing Financial Infrastructure and Investor Confidence
Among the recent milestones noted by Sheikh Maktoum was the development of the sovereign yield curve for the UAE dirham—a move designed to increase market transparency, provide benchmarks for dirham-denominated debt instruments, and attract a broader range of investors.
He reiterated the Ministry of Finance’s dedication to working with public and private sector partners to boost efficiency, expand investment opportunities, and ensure sustainable economic growth.
“The UAE is committed to long-term fiscal sustainability, economic competitiveness, and maintaining a flexible and credible economic model that meets the needs of global investors,” he noted.
A Trusted Global Economic Hub
These sovereign credit ratings further cement the UAE’s status as a safe, stable, and forward-looking destination for international business and investment. They affirm the country’s ability to manage economic challenges, diversify revenue streams, and maintain a globally competitive edge, even amidst ongoing regional and global uncertainties.
As the UAE advances into its next phase of economic evolution, these affirmations from top agencies stand as a clear endorsement of its strategic planning, strong governance, and global vision.
