Dubai GDP hits Dh473 billion in first half of 2026

Economic performance reflects 2.3 per cent decline

This H1 2026 result represents a 2.3 per cent decline when compared to the Dh484 billion recorded during the same period in 2025.

While the real GDP contracted, the emirate's GDP at current prices increased by 0.2 per cent to reach Dh505 billion for the same period.

Regional conflict impacts key sectors

The Iran war, which began on 28 February 2026, disrupted regional travel and trade. This instability impacted Dubai’s tourism and transport sectors. The IMF forecasts a 2 per cent contraction for the Middle East and North Africa region in 2026.

Wholesale and retail trade, which accounts for 20.5 per cent of the real GDP, declined by 6 per cent in real terms. However, this sector advanced by 2 per cent at current prices, while foreign trade increased by 4 per cent.

The real estate sector contracted by 2.5 per cent in constant prices, and manufacturing declined by 0.9 per cent in real terms.

Financial and healthcare sectors drive growth

Growth in financial services, healthcare, construction, and technology sectors helped the emirate navigate economic challenges. Financial and insurance activities expanded by 8.8 per cent in real terms to reach Dh65.9 billion. This sector's contribution to the economy rose from 12.5 per cent to 14 per cent.

Healthcare and social work activities recorded the fastest growth at 14.3 per cent, with a value of approximately Dh6.2 billion. Information and communication activities increased by 2.7 per cent.

The construction sector grew by 2.4 per cent. Government services also expanded by 2.9 per cent.

DIFC expansion and digital transformation

The number of companies operating at the Dubai International Financial Centre exceeded 10,000 in the first half of 2026.

Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, director general of Digital Dubai, said that digital transformation and artificial intelligence are key factors for economic development.

Helal Almarri highlights economic adaptability

Helal Saeed Almarri, director general of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, said the performance in the first half of 2026 reflects the strength and adaptability of an economy built to navigate periods of global uncertainty.

He said the economic results show the ability of the emirate to adapt to global instability. He said the outcomes confirm the success of the policy for diversification. He also stated that the results demonstrate the resilience of the economic foundations.

Government strategy and future investment plans

Dubai is pursuing Dh2.1 trillion in projects related to transport, aviation, and housing. These projects include the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport. Dubai CommerCity announced a Dh1.8 billion expansion this month.

The government introduced a Dh1.5 billion economic relief package in May 2026 to support sectors affected by regional uncertainty. It continues to implement the D33 strategy, which aims to increase competitiveness, expand the investment environment, and develop sectors with high value-added.

Reports indicate that efforts in the second half of 2026 will be directed toward accelerating investments.