Dubai's economy reaches Dh473bn in first half of 2026 as key sectors expand

Dubai's economy reached Dh473 billion in the first half of 2026, down 2.3 percent from the same period a year earlier, according to the Dubai Data and Statistics Establishment. The slowdown was attributed to the Iran war, which disrupted regional travel and trade, impacting Dubai's tourism and transport sectors. GDP at current prices, however, increased by 0.2 percent to Dh505 billion, reflecting growth across several key sectors.

The financial and insurance activities sector expanded 8.8 percent in real terms to Dh65.9 billion, making up 14 percent of GDP. Healthcare and social work activities grew the fastest at 14.3 percent, while information and communication activities increased 2.7 percent. However, wholesale and retail trade declined 6 percent, transport and storage fell 7.4 percent, real estate activity contracted 2.5 percent, and manufacturing declined 0.9 percent.

Dubai's economy is built to navigate significant global uncertainty, with the emirate moving ahead with Dh2.1 trillion in projects to support long-term economic growth.