Dubai’s economy records Dhs355b GDP in first nine months of 2025

Dubai’s economy continued its upward trajectory in 2025, delivering strong growth that underscores its resilience and sustained momentum. The emirate recorded a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately Dhs355 billion during the first nine months of 2025, including Dhs113.8 billion in the third quarter alone.

The economy expanded 4.7% in the first nine months and 5.3% in the third quarter, compared to the corresponding period in 2024. This performance reflects the vitality of the local economy and the success of the development policies driving prosperity across the emirate.

Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, said: “Dubai’s economic progress is shaped by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and realised through disciplined execution and collective effort. The figures we see today are the result of clear priorities, strong institutions, and teams working with focus, commitment and a deep sense of responsibility.”

“Dubai’s growth reflects a dynamic economic ecosystem and a development model that puts people first, invests in talent, and builds prosperity on strong, sustainable foundations,” he added.

Praising the efforts of teams across sectors, Sheikh Hamdan said: “In Dubai, progress is shared. Our sectors advance together, reinforcing one another through coordination, stability and a determination to achieve the leadership’s vision, while continuously raising standards and creating new opportunities for future generations.”

Health and Social Work activities led the list of fastest-growing sectors, recording a growth rate of 15.4% and contributing 1.5% to Dubai’s GDP. The Financial and Insurance sector also delivered strong performance, achieving 8.5% growth and contributing 12% to GDP during the first nine months of the year. This momentum was mirrored by the construction sector, which grew by 8.5%, contributing 6.7% to the emirate’s GDP.

Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), said: “Dubai’s economic performance through the first nine months of 2025 stands as a compelling testament to our ability to not only sustain but accelerate growth. Guided by the city’s visionary leadership, this continues to be delivered through a model built on consistency and clarity, where strategy, policy and execution are aligned across government, and where the private sector can invest and scale with confidence. It is also underpinned by an environment that is proving equally compelling to talent as it is to capital, ensuring that the full spectrum of the business ecosystem, from startups to multinationals, can seize opportunities for exponential growth. In synergy with partners across the public and private sectors, we will continue to develop and implement initiatives and enablers that strengthen competitiveness, unlock new opportunities and keep Dubai firmly on track to achieve the ambitious goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.”

Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Director General of Digital Dubai, said: “The positive indicators we are witnessing reflect the image of a strong economy based on long-term planning and a forward-looking leadership vision that believes in integration across sectors and sustainable investment in people and technology to build a better future for all. This upward curve is the result of a dynamic economic system that combines diversity and flexibility, supported by proactive policies capable of transforming global changes into opportunities for growth and expansion.”

He added: “Dubai has proven that an economy powered by digitalisation, advanced technology, data, and artificial intelligence is inherently more resilient and future-ready. This performance is not merely numbers on a screen; it is a powerful signal of confidence and optimism, reflecting the success of Dubai’s model in building a competitive, sustainable economy. It strengthens public-private partnerships and creates a globally attractive environment for investment, business, and innovation. Above all, it confirms that Dubai is moving steadily towards achieving the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and consolidating its position among the world’s leading economic cities.”

Younus Al Nasser, Chief Executive, Dubai Data and Statistics Establishment at Digital Dubai, said: “The GDP growth indicators achieved by Dubai embody the advanced position the emirate’s economy has reached, and its ability to evolve confidently in a changing global environment, based on the effective management of data and statistics as a strategic tool for accurately understanding reality and anticipating the future. Today, data represents the compass that guides economic policies, illuminates growth pathways, and supports building a competitive, knowledge-based economy.”

He added: “The advanced integration of data between government entities and the private sector has contributed to providing a comprehensive and accurate picture of the economic landscape, enabling decision-makers and investors to take more proactive and effective decisions. This integration, supported by digitalisation and advanced technologies, reflects the maturity of Dubai’s data ecosystem and confirms the success of its model in transforming data into real economic value that enhances productivity, stimulates innovation and accelerates sustainable growth.”