Dubai economy grows 4.4% to Dh241 billion in first half of 2025

Dubai: Dubai’s economy recorded strong and sustained growth in the first half of 2025, with gross domestic product (GDP) rising 4.4% year on year to reach Dh241 billion.

Growth was supported by a solid performance in the second quarter, when GDP expanded 4.7% to Dh122 billion, driven by continued momentum across key sectors including trade, transport, tourism, and financial services.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, said the results highlight the emirate’s ongoing economic strength and its success in fostering innovation and diversification.

“Dubai’s economy continues to record strong and sustainable growth across all sectors, with GDP rising 4.4% in the first half of 2025 to Dh241 billion compared to the same period in 2024. The momentum was driven by a robust second-quarter performance, with GDP surging 4.7% to Dh122 billion,” Sheikh Hamdan said.

“Guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai continues to advance a future-focused model of innovation, diversification, and global competitiveness. These results reflect the combined efforts of the public and private sectors and the dedication of Dubai’s wider team. Thank you to everyone whose work brings us closer to achieving the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.”

Dubai’s economic expansion continues to reflect its diversified structure, supported by strong growth in non-oil sectors. Transport, logistics, real estate, and tourism remained major contributors, while trade and financial services sustained steady gains amid continued global demand and investment flows.

The emirate’s focus on innovation and digital transformation has also strengthened its competitiveness, attracting new business and investment to high-growth areas such as technology, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing.

The performance aligns with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the size of Dubai’s economy within the next decade and position it among the world’s top three urban economies.

Authorities continue to advance initiatives designed to boost productivity, expand trade, and attract global talent. The results from the first half of 2025 demonstrate steady progress toward those objectives, reinforcing Dubai’s resilience and adaptability amid changing global economic conditions.

Economic analysts note that the emirate’s sustained growth reflects not only its recovery from global headwinds but also the effectiveness of long-term policies promoting innovation, investment, and private-sector participation.

Dubai’s performance in the first half of 2025 positions it well for continued expansion through the remainder of the year, supported by ongoing infrastructure projects, tourism demand, and regional trade growth.