Dubai’s economy grew 2.4 per cent in the first quarter of 2026, with gross domestic product reaching AED 232 billion, according to data released by Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism.
The human health and social work sector recorded the fastest expansion, growing 17.5 per cent year-on-year to reach a total added value of AED 3.6 billion, contributing 1.5 per cent to overall GDP. Electricity, gas, water and waste management activities grew 8.4 per cent, reaching AED 4.6 billion and accounting for 2.0 per cent of GDP. Construction posted growth of 8.2 per cent, with added value reaching AED 18.7 billion and a contribution of 8.1 per cent to the emirate’s total output.
The figures also reflect a methodological update. From the start of 2026, Dubai’s GDP series has been revised against previously published estimates, incorporating findings from economic surveys and administrative records in line with international statistical standards.
Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General of the Department of Economy and Tourism, said the results demonstrate the strength of Dubai’s strategic planning across key sectors. “We are confident that the outstanding partnership between the public and private sectors, alongside maintaining global investor confidence, will drive the next phase of growth and reinforce Dubai’s position as a leading global economic hub, in line with the targets of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33,” he said.
Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Director General of Dubai Digital, pointed to the breadth of sectoral performance as evidence of the emirate’s diversified model. “The positive performance across economic sectors confirms the success of establishing a diversified and resilient economic model built on innovation, competitiveness and openness to global markets,” he said.
Hadi Badri, Chief Executive of Dubai Economic Development Corporation, said the Q1 results reflect momentum the emirate is actively building on. “From strategic initiatives supporting SME growth to global partnerships that enhance investor confidence, there has been no pause in our collective efforts,” he said, adding that the focus remains on attracting investment, fostering innovation and developing talent pipelines.
Dubai’s D33 agenda, announced in 2023, targets doubling the size of the emirate’s economy and ranking it among the top three global economic cities within a decade.
