Dubai: Dubai maintained its strong economic performance in the first quarter of 2026, with the emirate's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) reaching AED232 billion, representing a 2.4% increase from the same period last year.
According to Emirates News Agency, the performance reflects the strength, resilience, and adaptability of Dubai's economy, driven by the diversity and integration of its economic activities, as well as the effectiveness of its development policies and strategies in enhancing its competitiveness and ability to respond to evolving global economic conditions.
The data reaffirms Dubai's continued progress in advancing sustainable economic growth, driven by innovation, openness, and strategic partnerships with the private sector. This growth reinforces its position as a leading global hub for business and investment and supports the emirate's long-term ambitions.
Since the beginning of 2026, the GDP series has been revised from previously published estimates to reflect the latest results of economic surveys and data derived from administrative records. This update aligns with international statistical best practices and standards, enhancing the accuracy of the data.
The Human Health and Social Work Activities sector recorded the highest growth rate at 17.5%, contributing 1.5% to the emirate's GDP. The Electricity, Gas, and Water Supply; Waste Management Activities sector also registered strong growth of 8.4%, while the Construction sector grew by 8.2%, contributing 8.1% to Dubai's GDP during the first quarter of the current year.
Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, emphasized that Dubai's economic growth continues to be anchored in visionary leadership and proactive strategic planning. The Q1 2026 GDP results reflect another successive quarter of robust performance, marking a consistent trajectory that has established a strong platform for stability.
Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Director General of Digital Dubai, highlighted the resilience of Dubai's economy, which continues to achieve sustainable growth amid a rapidly evolving global economic landscape. He emphasized the success of the emirate's diversified and agile economic model, built on competitiveness, innovation, and global connectivity.
Younus Al Nasser, Chief Executive of the Dubai Data and Statistics Establishment at Digital Dubai, underscored the importance of a robust data ecosystem in driving economic development and enhancing Dubai's ability to anticipate future opportunities.
Hadi Badri, Chief Executive Officer of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation, noted that Dubai has retained robust foundations that will continue to support long-term growth. The city's Q1 2026 results underline the momentum as Dubai works towards the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.
The report further details the specific growth rates and contributions of various sectors, highlighting the diverse and dynamic nature of Dubai's economy. Each sector, from Real Estate Activities to Financial and Insurance Activities, demonstrates varying levels of growth and contribution to the overall GDP, reinforcing Dubai's robust economic structure.