Dubai's economy kept up its steady climb in the first quarter of 2026, with GDP hitting AED232 billion, a 2.4% rise from the same period last year. The figures point to a city whose growth engine keeps humming even as global conditions shift.
Officials credit the performance to the diversity of Dubai's economic base and the follow-through on long-term development strategies. This year's GDP series has also been revised to reflect updated survey data and administrative records, bringing it in line with international statistical standards.
Health and social work led all sectors with 17.5% growth, adding AED3.6 billion in value. Electricity, gas and water supply followed at 8.4% growth, while construction expanded 8.2%, contributing AED18.7 billion and 8.1% of total GDP.
Real estate grew a steadier 3.1%, generating AED26 billion. Wholesale and retail trade remained Dubai's largest single contributor at 22% of GDP, growing 2.6% and accounting for roughly a quarter of the quarter's overall growth. Financial and insurance activities posted 6.5% growth and made up 14% of GDP, contributing well over a third of total economic expansion during the period.
Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, said the results reflect deliberate policy and structural depth rather than coincidence, pointing to continued alignment with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori of Digital Dubai and Younus Al Nasser of the Dubai Data and Statistics Establishment both pointed to the emirate's data driven approach as a key factor behind the consistency of its economic planning.
Hadi Badri of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation added that the quarter's momentum stems from ongoing investment in SME growth and international partnerships, with no letup in efforts across public and private sectors.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
