Dubai’s Gross Domestic Product reached AED 232 billion in the first quarter of 2026, marking a 2.4% year-on-year expansion. To ensure alignment with international statistical standards and improve reporting accuracy, the GDP series was updated with recent economic survey data and administrative records.
Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, credited successive quarters of growth to strategic policy choices and public-private sector integration, moving the emirate closer to its D33 Economic Agenda goals. Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Director General of Digital Dubai, added that the performance demonstrates the adaptability of Dubai’s diversified model in a changing global landscape. Highlighting the role of data in these milestones, Younus Al Nasser of the Dubai Data and Statistics Establishment noted that robust information architectures improve policy outcomes and lower investment risks. Meanwhile, Hadi Badri of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation stated that ongoing support for entrepreneurship and local talent will sustain this momentum.
The wholesale and retail trade sector remained the largest economic driver, growing 2.6% to reach AED 50.9 billion, accounting for 22% of total GDP and fueling 24% of the quarter’s overall expansion. Financial and insurance activities expanded 6.5% to AED 32.4 billion, increasing its GDP share to 14% and generating 37% of total realized growth. Real estate activities maintained steady upward momentum with a 3.1% expansion, generating AED 26 billion and contributing 11.2% to GDP. The construction sector grew 8.2% to reach AED 18.7 billion, representing 8.1% of Dubai’s total economic output. Information and communication increased 2.7% to AED 12.1 billion, accounting for 5.2% of the overall economy. Administrative and support services rose 3.6% to AED 10.5 billion, maintaining a steady 4.5% share of GDP. The electricity, gas, water, and waste management sector advanced 8.4% to AED 4.6 billion, making up 2% of total GDP. Finally, human health and social work recorded the highest individual growth rate at 17.5%, bringing its total value to AED 3.6 billion and contributing 1.5% to the emirate’s GDP.
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