Dubai School of Government reviews impact of World Competitiveness Report 2007

The UAE was the top ranked Arab country and the 29th best performing country among 40 most advanced economies, in the WEF report, because of its strong public institutions and sound economic management, which has contributed to stabilising the macroeconomic environment.

The DSG forum, attended by a number of senior government officials and leading businessmen, sought to awareness of the principles of enhancing competitiveness and key elements that determine a country's ranking on the global index.

Dr. Tariq Youssef, Dean of the Dubai School of Government and one of the authors of the World Competitiveness Report 2007, addressed the forum. He spoke about the value of the report which was developed in collaboration with world's leading academics and a global network of research institutions.

In his presentation, Dr. Youssef highlighted the economic fundamentals that helped the UAE achieve its ranking on the World Competitiveness Index. He said the country scored high in macro economic sectors, national savings rate and government debt.

The report also rated the UAE for its advanced trade, infrastructure banking and healthcare sectors, public trust, taxation and related economic policies, wages and labour costs.

In his presentation, Dr. Youssef said: "The ranking acts as one of the most influential international tools which will have a direct bearing on the countries reviewed. The report, which helps governments to identify priority areas for reform, is closely monitored by policymakers around the world."

Launched in 1979 with 16 countries, the report has evolved into a significant international analytical document which covers 125 countries now.

The special forum underlines Dubai School of Government's commitment to improve public service in the Arab world through facilitating exchange of ideas among government officials, private and non-governmental leaders, and public stakeholders.