His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum announces UAE’s historic achievement in Edelman Trust Index
In a remarkable milestone that reinforces the nation’s global standing, the United Arab Emirates has been recognized as the world’s most trusted government according to the prestigious Edelman Trust Index 2026. The announcement, made by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, highlights the country’s unwavering commitment to transparent governance, institutional excellence, and citizen-centric policies.
A Trust Built on Decades of Excellence
The UAE’s achievement in securing the top position globally is no overnight success. As Sheikh Mohammed eloquently stated, “Trust is not built overnight, but earned over many years through credibility, keeping promises, the legitimacy of achievement, the integrity of laws and respect for people.”
With an impressive 82% trust rating in government, compared to the global average of just 52% – the UAE stands as a beacon of stability and confidence in an increasingly uncertain world. This extraordinary level of public trust reflects years of strategic planning, institutional reforms, and a governance model that prioritizes accountability, transparency, and sustainable development.
Understanding the Edelman Trust Index
The Edelman Trust Barometer, now in its 26th year, is recognized globally as one of the most comprehensive assessments of public confidence in institutions. The 2026 report surveyed more than 33,000 respondents across 28 countries, measuring trust in government, business, media, and non-governmental organizations.
The UAE’s ranking places it alongside China (also at 80) at the pinnacle of governmental trust, significantly outperforming developed markets such as the United States (47), United Kingdom (44), Germany (44), France (42), and Japan (38).
What This Means for Dubai and the UAE
Economic Stability and Confidence
The high trust rating translates directly into economic advantages. When institutions demonstrate integrity and competence, they create an environment where businesses thrive, investments flourish, and economic growth becomes sustainable. The UAE’s trusted governance framework has attracted unprecedented foreign direct investment, with Dubai recording over 197,000 property transactions worth AED 624.1 billion between January and November 2025.
Quality of Life and Future Optimism
Over half of respondents in the UAE express optimism about the future for the next generation, compared to the global average of just 36%. This optimism is underpinned by tangible improvements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and digital innovation that residents experience daily.
Regulatory Excellence
Dubai’s real estate sector benefits immensely from this trust framework through:
- Transparent regulatory systems
- Strong property rights protection
- Investor-friendly policies including 100% foreign ownership
- Digital government services that streamline transactions
- Clear legal frameworks with efficient dispute resolution
The Direct Impact on Dubai’s Real Estate Market
The UAE’s position as the world’s most trusted government creates a powerful foundation for real estate investment and growth. Here’s how this recognition directly benefits property investors and homeowners:
1. Enhanced Market Stability
Trust in governance reduces market volatility. Investors can make long-term decisions with confidence, knowing that policies will remain consistent, fair, and business-friendly. This stability is reflected in Dubai’s mature real estate market, which continues to attract over 100,000 new residents annually.
2. Global Investment Appeal
The trust factor makes Dubai one of the most attractive destinations for international property investors. With zero property taxes, 100% foreign ownership rights, and Golden Visa opportunities (over 250,000 issued since 2021), the city has become a magnet for global capital seeking safe, high-yield investments.
3. Infrastructure and Development Excellence
High trust enables ambitious long-term planning. Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan, backed by government credibility, ensures that major infrastructure projects proceed on schedule, directly enhancing property values in well-connected communities.
4. Strong Rental Market Fundamentals
The influx of professionals, families, and businesses drawn by Dubai’s trusted governance creates sustained rental demand. Average gross rental yields in Dubai hover around 6.5-7%, among the highest globally for a major metropolitan area.
2026 Real Estate Market Outlook: Strength Built on Trust
Dubai’s property market enters 2026 with extraordinary momentum, supported by the trust dividend from excellent governance:
Market Performance:
- Transaction values exceeded AED 500 billion in 2025
- Approximately 120,000 new units scheduled for delivery in 2026
- Average property prices at AED 1,676 per square foot, competitive globally yet sustainable
- Prime locations like Palm Jumeirah, Emirates Hills, and Dubai Hills Estate show continued resilience
Investment Opportunities:
- Off-plan properties with flexible payment plans and capital appreciation potential
- Ready secondary market properties offering immediate rental income
- Mid-market segments in emerging communities aligned with the 2040 Urban Master Plan
- Luxury waterfront developments attracting ultra-high-net-worth individuals
Market Maturity: The shift from speculative buying to end-user demand means the market is more stable, sustainable, and focused on long-term value creation, exactly the environment that trust in government facilitates.
DMAXX Properties: Your Trusted Partner in Dubai Real Estate
At DMAXX Properties, we understand that investing in real estate is about more than transactions, it’s about building your future in a trusted environment. Just as the UAE government has earned the world’s confidence through transparency, integrity, and consistent delivery, we bring the same principles to every client relationship.
Why Choose DMAXX Properties?
Expertise Rooted in Market Knowledge: With deep understanding of Dubai’s dynamic property landscape, our team provides data-driven insights that help you make informed investment decisions. We know which communities are positioned for growth, which developers have the strongest track records, and where the best value opportunities exist.
Comprehensive Service Excellence: From property search and due diligence to transaction management and after-sales support, we guide you through every step of your real estate journey. Our commitment is to your long-term success and satisfaction.
Access to Premium Inventory: Our established relationships with leading developers give you early access to the most sought-after off-plan launches and prime secondary market properties across Dubai’s most prestigious locations.
Transparent, Client-First Approach: In a market built on trust, we pride ourselves on honest advice, clear communication, and ethical practices. Your goals are our mission, and we never compromise on integrity.
Investment Strategy Consulting: Whether you’re seeking high rental yields, capital appreciation, or a luxury family home, we tailor our recommendations to your specific needs, budget, and timeline. Our advisory goes beyond selling properties—we help you build wealth through smart real estate decisions.
Investment Categories We Excel In
Premium Villas and Townhouses
Perfect for families seeking quality of life in established communities with strong resale value and limited supply.
High-Yield Apartments
Strategic units in high-demand rental areas offering consistent cash flow and portfolio diversification.
Off-Plan Opportunities
Early access to new developments with attractive payment plans and appreciation potential as projects near completion.
Luxury Waterfront Properties
Exclusive residences in iconic locations for discerning buyers seeking prestige and long-term value preservation.
Golden Visa Eligible Properties
Investment opportunities starting from AED 2 million that qualify for UAE long-term residency benefits.
The Trust Advantage: Why Now Is the Time to Invest
The UAE’s recognition as the world’s most trusted government isn’t just an accolade – it’s a competitive advantage that makes Dubai one of the most compelling real estate markets globally. Combined with:
- Political and economic stability
- World-class infrastructure development
- Diverse, growing economy beyond oil
- Strategic geographic location connecting East and West
- Progressive policies attracting global talent
- Tax-efficient environment
- Exceptional quality of life
Dubai offers a unique value proposition that few cities can match. The trust that Sheikh Mohammed speaks of – earned through credible action and sustained delivery – creates the foundation for successful, secure property investment.
