UAE Government Among The Most Trusted In The World, Survey Reveals

A recent survey reveals that trust in the UAE government is among the highest in the world. The latest edition of the Edelman Trust Barometer shows that the country ranks third out of 28 countries in terms of levels of confidence in government, business, non-governmental institutions, and the media.

Based on the international report, the UAE has recorded an overall confidence level of 74 percent, making it among the most trusted among the countries surveyed. Also topping the survey are China and Indonesia with 83 percent and 75 percent, respectively.

The survey considered the trust levels in four major institutions, including government, business, NGO, and media, according to Arabian Business. The scores, which were based on the response of over 30,000 participants from 28 countries, reveal that despite challenges in food security, climate change, and other global issues, the UAE has retained significant trust levels from its people.

Individual scores of the UAE's four major institutions reveal that the government is the most trusted institution in the country with 86 percent. Business follows with 78 percent, while non-governmental organizations and the media got 70 percent and 62 percent, respectively.

The survey also looked into the subject of economic optimism, with results showing that 72 percent of Emiratis expect their lives to get better in the UAE in five years. The score is the fourth highest in the survey and is well above the 40 percent average.

Edelman Middle East Chief Executive Omar Qirem said the UAE's high economic optimism was remarkable, considering that most countries have recorded all-time lows. The survey also noted that the high scores recorded in the UAE came as a result of its major institutions being perceived as "competent and ethical."

"The UAE's clear long-term social and economic policies have seen the country become one of the most popular and sought-after destinations in the world, attracting expats, businesses and tourists, while preserving the country's unique cultural heritage and identity," said Qirem.

Aside from the UAE, the other Gulf nation that made it on top of the list was Saudi Arabia, which comes fifth with an average trust level of 71 percent. Meanwhile, countries with the lowest scores recorded include Argentina at 42 percent, Japan at 38 percent, and South Korea at 36 percent.