The UAE leads the world in literacy rates among youth, achieving advanced rankings globally in this area. According to the Sustainable Development Goals Index for 2025, released by the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network, the UAE surpassed all countries in literacy rates within the age group of 15 to 24 years. This achievement reflects the continuous efforts made by the nation to enhance the education system and empower young people.
Literacy Rates
Data from the report “Unified Figures for the United Arab Emirates,” presented during the annual meetings of the UAE government in 2025, indicated that the literacy rate among youth has reached 99.6%. This high percentage represents a significant milestone in the development of the education system in the UAE, with the aim of ensuring quality and inclusive education for all young people.
Ongoing Investment in Education
The average years of schooling in the UAE reached 13.36 years by 2024, thanks to continuous investments in education. This includes updating curricula and enhancing the research environment. The country allocates substantial resources to build a comprehensive education system that aligns with the highest global standards, contributing to improved education and literacy levels among youth.
Leading Educational Institutions
The report also confirmed that UAE universities have become regional centers of academic and scientific excellence. These institutions attract top talents from scholars and researchers worldwide, enhancing the UAE’s status as a prestigious educational destination and reinforcing its role in fostering intellectual and scientific innovations.
The UAE’s position as a leader in youth literacy reaffirms its commitment to developing human capital, making it a model for the region and the world. These efforts contribute to building a prosperous future based on knowledge and innovation.