Top 10 most powerful countries in the world in 2023

US News & World Report noted that the discovery of oil in the UAE in the mid-20th century led to a rapid transformation of its economy. The report also stated that the UAE's per capita GDP now rivals that of major Western European countries. The UAE is considered to have the most competitive economy in the Arab world, according to the World Economic Forum. However, it dropped one spot from the previous year's ranking in favor of its neighbor, Saudi Arabia.

The magazine pointed out that Saudi Arabia is the world's largest oil producer, accounting for roughly a quarter of global oil supplies. The country is also a founding member of OPEC and a member of the World Trade Organization, among other international organizations. The report highlighted the millions of Muslims from around the world who perform the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. Saudi Arabia advanced two places compared to the previous year, ranking 9th, with a special emphasis on its economic and political influence.

The magazine described Japan as one of the "most literate, technically advanced countries in the world." It noted that Japan boasts the third-largest economy globally and is among the largest producers of automobiles, electronics, and steel. Japan's economic influence ranked fourth highest in the world, according to the survey, and its ranking remained unchanged from the previous year.

US News & World Report emphasized that the French economy is among the strongest in the world, with tourism playing a significant role. France is also one of the most visited countries globally and is one of the largest arms exporters. The magazine stated that "France is one of the oldest countries in the world, with influence extending globally through science, politics, and economics, and perhaps culture above all." Its strong international alliances and economic influence were key factors in its ranking, which remained unchanged from 2022.

The magazine highlighted South Korea's military strength and robust exports. The country is a member of various international organizations, including the United Nations, G20, World Trade Organization, and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The magazine noted that South Korea possesses "one of the world's largest total national savings and foreign investment reserves" while also emphasizing its massive exports of automobiles and technology. South Korea's tech-driven and service-based economy was described as a "foreign investment success story," making it one of the world's largest economies.

The magazine stated that the United Kingdom wields strong global influence, partially rooted in its history when it ruled the British Empire. It described the United Kingdom as an "extremely advanced country with significant international economic, political, scientific, and cultural impact." London was characterized as a major international financial center and one of the most visited cities in the world. The United Kingdom is home to several top-ranked universities. Additionally, the United Kingdom is a member of the World Trade Organization, the G20, NATO, the World Bank, and holds a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. However, US News & World Report also noted that its role on the global stage faces new challenges since leaving the European Union.

The magazine highlighted Germany's strong international alliances and its high-level economic influence, retaining the same position as the previous year. Germany was noted as the "most populous country in the European Union" and "one of the largest economies in the world," being one of the biggest importers and exporters globally. The country shares borders with nine other nations and is part of major international organizations, including the United Nations, the European Union, NATO, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. The magazine also mentioned Germany's contributions in various fields, including the sciences and arts, as well as its highly skilled workforce. However, it pointed out challenges such as an aging population.

Despite its ongoing conflict in Ukraine that began in February 2022, Russia maintained its third-place ranking in global power, even as the country faced increasing isolation. The magazine noted that part of Russia's strength comes from its vast landmass, making it the largest country in the world by area. Its geopolitical significance is enhanced by its borders with numerous countries and maritime boundaries with Japan and the United States. Russia's major industries, including oil and natural gas production, agriculture, fishing, and manufacturing, were emphasized, as well as its history as a major arms exporter.

The magazine pointed out that China is the second-largest country in the world by both land area and economy size. It highlighted how China has become one of the fastest-growing major economies globally since the economic reforms of 1978, lifting millions out of poverty. However, this rapid growth has also led to challenges, including increased inequality, pollution, and tensions with major countries like the United States, which has criticized its human rights record. China possesses nuclear weapons and is a member of major international organizations like the World Trade Organization and the United Nations Security Council, reinforcing its ranking in global power.

The magazine described the United States as the "dominant global power" and maintained the country's top position in the power ranking. The report noted that the United States has the largest economy in the world in terms of GDP ($25.5 trillion) and is also the "leading technological powerhouse" globally. It highlighted the United States as the largest producer of oil and natural gas, with the largest coal reserves globally. The magazine also emphasized the massive media industry with "global influence" and "extensive exports" worldwide. The United States is home to several top universities and plays a leading role in international organizations such as the United Nations and NATO.