UAE

The UAE is a high-income economy in the Gulf region, known for successful diversification away from oil, world-class infrastructure, global business hub status (Dubai & Abu Dhabi), and aggressive investment in future sectors (AI, renewables, tourism, finance, logistics). It has one of the most advanced and resilient economies in the Middle East, with very low inflation, strong fiscal buffers, and high living standards. The UAE ranks among the world’s highest performers in human development, reflecting massive investments in health, education, infrastructure, safety, and talent attraction.

0.68 High

World Bank Human Capital Index (HCI)

o Latest value (2020, most recent comprehensive): 0.67–0.70 (scale 0–1)

o Interpretation: A child born today can expect to achieve ~67–70% of their full potential productivity (full health + quality education).

Overall

The UAE represents the gold standard benchmark for the CBES network, demonstrating what strategic investment in human capital, infrastructure, and economic diversification can achieve. Its world-class business environment and talent attraction model offer valuable lessons for emerging African economies.

HCI Comparison Across CBES Network

UAE High

0.68

Kenya Medium

0.55

Ghana Medium

0.45

South Africa Low

0.43

Tanzania Low

0.39

Nigeria Low

0.36

Mentors in UAE

Bassma Hamdy Soliman

UAE

Bassma Hamdy Soliman is a Global Director and Strategic Growth Leader with over 13 years of experience designing and scaling cross-border programs across education, development, and entrepreneurship in the MENA region. She specialises in executive program architecture, institutional partnerships, and revenue development. Bassma holds an MSc in Innovation and Change Management and serves as a Global Mentor, supporting emerging leaders and entrepreneurs worldwide.

Explore Other Countries

Nigeria HCI: 0.36

South Africa HCI: 0.43

UAE