UAE tops among Arab countries in global Transparency Index

The UAE top ranked with a score of 6.2 points, compared to Qatar that came second with 6.0 points. The scores range from ten (squeaky clean) to zero (highly corrupt). A score of 5.0 is the number Transparency International considers the borderline figure distinguishing countries that do and do not have a serious corruption problem.

The Index is based on studies conducted by 12 independent research houses to guarantee optimum objectivity and authenticity. The UAE's credibility score ranged between 5.6 and 6.9 on the index's scale.

H.E. Mohammed Al Gergawi, Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs, said: "The report is an international testimony to the country's successful efforts in promoting the highest levels of transparency and corporate governance. The top ranking on an international index is a strong incentive to double our efforts to enhance the UAE's position among other leading countries that have achieved remarkable success in combating corruption."

Al Gergawi added: "The UAE government adopts the best international corporate governance standards to ensure maximum transparency levels. The government also exerts maximum efforts to combat fraud and increase its employees' awareness about the devastating effects of corruption."

Finland, Iceland, New Zealand and Denmark are ranked top five with the highest transparency and minimal corruption rates.

The Berlin-based Transparency International is a global civil society organisation leading the fight against corruption and has 100 member countries.