The UAE’s economy delivered robust performance through most of 2025, with gross domestic product (GDP) reaching approximately Dh1.4 trillion during the first nine months of the year marking a 5.1% year-on-year expansion.
Official data released by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre confirms that growth was largely powered by non-oil sectors, underscoring the country’s accelerating economic diversification strategy.
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Non-Oil Economy Leads Expansion
Non-oil activities expanded by 6.1%, contributing more than Dh1 trillion to total GDP and reinforcing the UAE’s transition toward a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy.
Key sector highlights include:
- Financial and insurance services: +9% (strongest growth)
- Construction: +8.7%
- Real estate: +7.9%
- Manufacturing: +6.9%
Wholesale and retail trade: Largest contributor to non-oil GDP at 16.1%
The broad-based sectoral performance reflects sustained domestic demand, continued foreign investment inflows, and the strength of the UAE’s regulatory and business environment.
Strategic Diversification in Action
The latest figures align with the national economic vision under We the UAE 2031,v which aims to double the country’s GDP to Dh3 trillion over the next decade.
Officials noted that the momentum reflects structural reforms, competitive legislation, and pro-business policies designed to enhance long-term resilience amid evolving global economic conditions.
The growth trajectory further demonstrates the UAE’s reduced dependence on hydrocarbons, with non-oil industries now serving as the primary engine of expansion.
Strengthening Global Trade Position
Complementing domestic growth, the UAE also maintained its position as a leading regional trade hub. According to data released by Oman’s National Centre for Statistics and Information, the UAE ranked as Oman’s top trading partner in non-oil exports, re-exports, and merchandise imports in 2025 reinforcing its role as a gateway economy across the GCC and broader Middle East region.
With strong sectoral diversification, expanding financial services, and sustained infrastructure development, the UAE remains well-positioned to navigate global headwinds while sustaining medium-term growth above regional averages.
For corporate investors, multinational enterprises, and financial institutions, the latest data signals continued opportunity across high-growth non-oil sectors particularly finance, real estate, manufacturing, and trade.
