The UAE ranks 9th in Global AI for Finance Competitiveness Index, according to a report released by Deep Knowledge Group. The index evaluates how countries apply artificial intelligence in financial services. The ranking places the UAE among the top ten countries globally for AI readiness and implementation in finance. The Hong Kong Financial Services Development Council participated as an observer in the index release.
UAE Ranks 9th in Global AI for Finance Competitiveness Index Criteria
The index assesses countries using multiple performance indicators. These include AI research output, financial AI deployment, digital infrastructure, talent availability, and investment activity. Data sources include patents, academic publications, startup density, and enterprise activity. The methodology focuses on measurable indicators linked to AI-driven financial innovation.
Financial AI Ecosystem Behind UAE Ranking
The UAE ranks 9th in Global AI for Finance Competitiveness Index partly due to its established AI ecosystem. The country hosts hundreds of AI-focused companies relative to population size. Previous global indexes ranked the UAE among the top countries for AI enterprise density per capita. Financial technology firms in the UAE apply AI across payments, compliance, risk analysis, and customer services.
National AI Strategy and Finance Sector Integration
The UAE launched its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy in 2017. The strategy aims to integrate AI across key sectors, including finance, by 2031. Government initiatives focus on infrastructure development, workforce training, and AI governance. Financial regulators and institutions have adopted AI tools for supervision, automation, and data analysis. Public and private sector coordination supports the use of AI in financial operations.
Global Context of the AI Finance Index
The Global AI for Finance Competitiveness Index is part of a wider set of global AI benchmarking studies. It complements broader AI competitiveness rankings that track innovation, talent, and enterprise development. The index compares national performance across developed and emerging markets. The UAE’s 9th place ranking reflects its participation in international AI measurement frameworks focused on financial technology.