Dubai has approved the largest budget cycle in its history as His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum endorsed Law No. 15 of 2025, setting the financial framework for 2026 to 2028 and confirming the emirate’s general budget for 2026.
The three year plan outlines total expenditures of AED302.7 billion and projected revenues of AED329.2 billion, signalling a strong commitment to long term growth and fiscal sustainability.
The budget cycle aligns with Dubai’s strategy to reinforce its position as a global economic hub. According to the Dubai Department of Finance, the plan is expected to generate an operating surplus of up to 5 percent of the emirate’s projected GDP in 2026. The approach supports expanded investment in future focused industries and strengthens the city’s economic foundations.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said the cycle offers a financial roadmap that accelerates Dubai’s ambitions to double its GDP and secure a place among the world’s top three urban economies within the next decade. He noted that the plan prioritises innovation driven sectors, entrepreneurship, and a high growth economic environment.
Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said the approval of the largest budget in the emirate’s history affirms Dubai’s limitless ambition and focus on resident well being. He highlighted the disciplined fiscal policies that continue to strengthen investor confidence.
For the fiscal year 2026, estimated expenditure stands at AED99.5 billion with revenues projected at AED107.7 billion. The budget allocates significant resources to social development, security, justice, and major infrastructure projects, supporting the goals of Dubai Plan 2033 and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
Officials emphasised that the budget framework reinforces transparency, digital transformation, and efficient government spending while advancing Dubai’s long term vision for a resilient and innovation led economy.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
