The UAE has achieved a significant milestone in the 2026 Marsh CFA Institute Global Pension Index, with its retirement framework moving up to a 'B' rating. This improvement follows a boost in the country’s adequacy and integrity scores, which both earned 'A' grades. These gains are largely attributed to stronger minimum pension support for low-income earners, better regulatory protections for members, and clearer communication regarding retirement entitlements. Alongside nations like Saudi Arabia and Oman, the UAE’s progress signals a regional trend of strengthening retirement income systems across the GCC.

While the current assessment highlights the robustness of existing employment-based schemes for Emirati nationals, experts emphasize that there is room for further development. Claudia Maldonado of Marsh Middle East suggests that expanding workplace pension participation to a broader demographic could significantly improve long-term financial security for future retirees. As global life expectancies continue to rise, the UAE is now focusing on balancing its successful governance frameworks with the long-term sustainability of its pension funds to ensure they remain reliable for future generations.