Standard Chartered has upgraded its economic outlook for the UAE, predicting the nation’s GDP will grow by 5% this year. This revised forecast surpasses previous estimates of 4% and suggests the UAE will significantly outperform the global average, as well as major economies like China, the United States, and the Eurozone.
The bank attributes this upward revision to robust internal momentum, specifically citing massive trade volumes, high levels of bank liquidity, and the ongoing strength of the non-oil sector. Rola Abu Manneh, CEO of the bank’s regional operations, noted that the UAE continues to be a standout performer on the global stage, maintaining a growth trajectory that aligns with its full economic potential.
The UAE’s strategic role as a global trade hub is expected to expand further as international supply chains continue to shift. According to the research, the country’s foreign trade is projected to reach the $1 trillion mark this year. Additionally, the non-oil economy is set for a 4.5% increase in 2026, driven by a thriving real estate market and favorable demographic trends.
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