UAE's Economic Performance in 2025 Highlights Diversification Success
The United Arab Emirates' economy demonstrated considerable growth in 2025, with its real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) climbing to AED1.9 trillion, marking a 6.2 percent increase compared to 2024. This positive trend was significantly influenced by the non-oil sectors, which saw an impressive 6.8 percent rise, contributing AED1.5 trillion to the overall GDP.
Leadership Attributes Growth to Strategic Economic Policies
Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, the Minister of Economy and Tourism, commented on these strong economic figures, attributing them to the effective leadership and strategic direction within the UAE. He emphasized that these results underscore the success of the nation's strategy to cultivate a diverse and sustainable economic framework. This framework is characterized by vigorous growth in non-oil industries and the increasing prominence of new economic ventures, aligning with the ambitions of the "We the UAE 2031" vision. Bin Touq also highlighted the role of the UAE's adaptable economic policies, which are designed to anticipate future trends and respond effectively to global shifts, thereby accelerating economic diversification and strengthening competitiveness.
Key Sectors Drive Non-Oil Growth and Economic Stability
Hanan Mansour Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC), echoed these sentiments, noting that the 2025 economic performance reflects the efficacy of the UAE's development and economic policies. These policies have been instrumental in bolstering economic stability and enhancing the competitiveness of critical sectors, while simultaneously advancing the national economy's structure towards greater diversity and efficiency. Ahli further indicated that the UAE is actively preparing for future economic challenges by investing in the digital economy, technology, and innovation, thereby cultivating an integrated economic ecosystem that supports long-term growth and solidifies the country's standing as a premier global hub for business and investment.
"The latest economic results reflect the effectiveness of the UAE’s strategy to develop a diversified and sustainable economic model, supported by robust growth in non-oil sectors and the rising role of new economy industries."
Several economic sectors posted strong performances in 2025. The construction sector led with an 11.1 percent increase, followed by the financial and insurance sector at 10.4 percent, real estate at 7.9 percent, and transport and storage at 7.8 percent. These figures demonstrate sustained momentum across the UAE's principal economic activities. In terms of their contribution to non-oil GDP, the trade sector remained the largest contributor at 16.9 percent. It was followed by the financial and insurance sector at 13.2 percent, construction at 12.9 percent, and manufacturing industries at 12.8 percent, collectively illustrating the broad and diverse production base of the national economy and the ongoing vital contributions of these sectors to overall economic expansion.