Dubai Economy Reaches Dh473 Billion in First Half of 2026

Dubai's economy recorded a real gross domestic product (GDP) of Dh473 billion during the first six months of 2026, reflecting a mixed economic performance amid global challenges.

The figure compares with Dh484 billion in the same period of 2025, marking a 2.3 per cent decline in real terms.

However, GDP measured at current prices increased by 0.2 per cent to Dh505 billion.

The latest figures highlight how different industries are performing across the emirate.

Growth in healthcare, financial services, construction and technology helped support economic activity.

Healthcare and Financial Services Lead Growth

Healthcare and social work emerged as the fastest-growing major sectors, expanding by 14.3 per cent year-on-year to Dh6.2 billion.

Financial and insurance activities also delivered strong results, growing by 8.8 per cent to Dh65.9 billion and accounting for 14 per cent of Dubai's economy.

Construction recorded 2.4 per cent growth, contributing Dh33.2 billion, while information and communication activities rose by 2.7 per cent to Dh24.7 billion.

Electricity, water and waste management activities also expanded, showing continued momentum in several important industries.

Trade, Transport and Real Estate Face Pressure

Despite growth in several sectors, some of Dubai's major economic activities experienced declines.

Wholesale and retail trade remained the largest contributor to GDP, accounting for 20.5 per cent, but its real output fell by 6 per cent.

Transportation and storage recorded a 7.4 per cent decline, while real estate activity contracted by 2.5 per cent in real terms.

Manufacturing also registered a modest decline of 0.9 per cent.

These figures demonstrate the uneven impact of changing global conditions on industries that play an important role in Dubai's economy.

Dubai Continues to Focus on Investment and Innovation

Dubai continues to pursue its long-term economic development plans through investment, innovation, technology and talent development under the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.

Officials have highlighted the importance of economic diversification and digital transformation in strengthening the emirate's competitiveness.

The latest results show that healthcare, finance and technology are becoming increasingly important alongside established sectors such as trade and property.

Although real GDP declined during the first half of 2026, continued expansion in several industries could help support future economic opportunities and business growth.