The United Arab Emirates has claimed sixth place worldwide and the top spot in the Middle East in a major new ranking that evaluates how effectively countries are building artificial intelligence capabilities alongside essential human skills. According to Coursera’s Global Skills Report 2026, the UAE ranks sixth out of 98 countries on the newly introduced AI-Human Skills Synergy Index. The index assesses how learners develop technical AI skills in tandem with complementary human abilities—such as critical thinking, complex problem-solving, and ethical judgment—while also factoring in each nation’s broader AI readiness.
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Only Germany, France, Japan, South Korea, and Hong Kong ranked higher. The UAE placed ahead of the Netherlands (7th), the United States (8th), Spain (9th), Singapore (10th), and the United Kingdom (19th). In the Middle East and North Africa region, it leads clearly, with Saudi Arabia in 25th place.
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What the Ranking MeasuresThe AI-Human Skills Synergy Index combines Coursera and Udemy learner data (accounting for about 60% of the score) with national AI readiness indicators from Oxford Insights’ Government AI Readiness Index (40%). It looks at proficiency levels, the degree to which people study AI and human skills together, the breadth of skills pursued, and the supporting policy and technology environment.
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This dual focus reflects a growing recognition that technical AI expertise alone is insufficient. Success in an AI-driven economy requires people who can apply the technology wisely, evaluate its outputs, navigate ethical questions, and solve complex real-world problems.Strong Momentum in Learning and AdoptionUAE learners are actively building both sides of the equation. AI course enrollments rose 75% year over year. Interest in specialized areas surged even faster: generative AI enrollments increased 117%, agentic workflows 100%, and AI security 243%. On the human skills side, complex problem-solving enrollments grew 56%, critical thinking 39%, and innovation 7%.
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These trends align with high real-world adoption. Stanford’s 2026 AI Index Report estimates generative AI adoption in the UAE at around 64%, among the highest rates recorded globally. Supporting initiatives include the establishment of a federal Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority and the AI for All program launched with Google to broaden foundational AI skills access.
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A Strategic Edge for the FutureThe ranking underscores the UAE’s deliberate approach to workforce development. By pairing rapid skills acquisition with strong national readiness, the country positions itself among a small group of nations where learning momentum and practical conditions for AI reinforce each other.For businesses, educators, and policymakers, the results highlight a clear message: the winners in the AI era will not simply be those who adopt the technology fastest, but those who equip people to use it thoughtfully and effectively. The UAE’s sixth-place global standing and regional leadership demonstrate that this balanced strategy is delivering measurable results.
