The UAE's economy expanded by 3 percent in the first quarter of 2026, with real GDP reaching AED485 billion at constant prices, as non-oil sectors continued to anchor the country's growth story.
Non-oil GDP rose 4.8 percent during the period, lifting its share of the national economy to 79.4 percent, up from 78.0 percent in 2025. The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre said the figures point to broad-based resilience, with regional headwinds during the quarter affecting only a narrow range of activities without denting overall momentum.
Financial and insurance activities led the charge, growing 17.3 percent year-on-year and contributing 2.44 percentage points to headline growth, the largest of any sector. Construction followed with 8.1 percent growth, while human health and social work activities expanded 7.7 percent. Information and communication grew 5.9 percent, and professional, scientific and technical activities combined with administrative and support services rose 4.9 percent.
Real estate climbed 4.8 percent and public administration rose 4.5 percent, while wholesale and retail trade grew 2.6 percent, reflecting gains spread widely across the economy.
Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, said the results showed how government policy was translating into measurable economic outcomes.
Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, pointed to the figures as evidence of the UAE's growing competitiveness and its progress towards the "We the UAE 2031" Vision, which aims to double the economy to AED3 trillion by 2031.
Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, linked the performance to expanding trade ties, noting that non-oil exports grew 23.9 percent in the first half of 2026 to reach AED452.8 billion, supported by the UAE's network of Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements.
The UAE is also revising its GDP accounting methodology, incorporating free zones and new data sources to align with international standards.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
