UAE Pension System Earns B Grade in 2026 Global Index
The UAE has strengthened its position in the 2026 Global Pension Index, raising its overall score to 70.0 and securing A grades for pension adequacy and integrity. The improvement highlights progress in retirement security, social protection and long-term financial wellbeing.
The UAE has recorded a significant improvement in the 2026 Marsh CFA Institute Global Pension Index, with its overall score increasing from 64.9 in 2025 to 70.0 in 2026.
The improvement has elevated the country's pension system from a C+ to a B grade, reflecting progress in retirement income protection, governance and the broader framework supporting financial security after employment.
The results, announced in October 2026, also show that the UAE achieved A grades in two important categories: pension adequacy and integrity.
For employees, the findings highlight the growing importance of retirement security as part of long-term financial wellbeing.
Stronger Performance in Pension Adequacy and Integrity
The Global Pension Index, published by Marsh and CFA Institute, evaluates retirement income systems across three primary dimensions: adequacy, sustainability and integrity.
Adequacy examines the benefits available to retirees and the extent to which pension arrangements support retirement income.
Sustainability considers whether retirement systems can continue meeting their financial commitments over the long term.
Integrity assesses governance, regulation and the protections provided to pension members.
In the 2026 assessment, the UAE's adequacy score increased from 79.4 to 84.9, while its integrity score rose from 75.5 to 80.8.
These improvements contributed to the country's higher overall rating and reflect progress in retirement benefits and pension governance.
Pension Reforms Support Retirement Security
The General Pension and Social Security Authority (GPSSA) highlighted the results as an important international benchmark for evaluating the UAE's retirement income system.
According to the authority, maintaining pension sustainability remains a national priority, with particular emphasis on protecting the rights of insured members and pensioners while preparing for future generations.
The UAE has introduced several legislative and administrative developments in recent years to strengthen its pension framework.
Among these is Federal Decree-Law No. 57 of 2023 concerning Pension and Social Security, which forms part of the country's ongoing pension reform efforts.
These developments have been accompanied by improvements in digital services and initiatives designed to encourage financial awareness and early retirement planning.
Financial Literacy Becomes a Workplace Wellbeing Priority
Beyond pension legislation, GPSSA has expanded initiatives that help UAE nationals understand their financial responsibilities and prepare for retirement.
The authority's Wafra programme promotes financial literacy, while its Balanced Step programme provides financial guidance.
Pension Advisory Services offer additional support, helping eligible individuals better understand retirement-related decisions.
GPSSA's Ma'ashi digital platform also provides access to pension services, supporting more convenient interactions with the authority.
These initiatives recognise that retirement readiness depends not only on pension entitlements but also on informed financial decisions throughout an individual's working life.
For employers, the findings reinforce the relevance of financial wellbeing as part of employee support and long-term workforce planning.
Clear information about pension contributions, retirement entitlements and available guidance can help eligible employees make better-informed financial decisions.
UAE Among Countries Improving Pension Performance
The 2026 Global Pension Index assessed 55 retirement income systems worldwide, covering approximately 66% of the global population.
The UAE was among five systems whose overall pension grades improved during the year, alongside Australia, Oman, Panama and China.
The findings come as retirement systems worldwide face growing pressure from demographic changes, including longer life expectancy and declining birth rates.
These trends are increasing the importance of pension arrangements that balance adequate retirement benefits with long-term financial sustainability.
Strengthening Financial Security for Future Generations
GPSSA has confirmed that it will continue reviewing the Index's findings and recommendations in coordination with relevant government entities.
The authority intends to use these insights to further develop pension services, improve the social security framework and strengthen long-term sustainability.
The UAE's improved assessment represents progress in its retirement protection framework, while also highlighting the need for continued planning and reform.
As financial wellbeing becomes an increasingly important part of the employee experience, effective pension systems and accessible retirement guidance can contribute to greater financial confidence throughout working life and beyond.
Sources: Emirates 24|7 / WAM; Marsh CFA Institute Global Pension Index 2026; General Pension and Social Security Authority (GPSSA)
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