Dubai, UAE: The UAE’s non-oil economy accounted for 79.2% of the country’s real gross domestic product (GDP) in the first half of 2026, highlighting the growing role of sectors beyond oil. According to figures released by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC) on 9 October 2026, the UAE’s real GDP reached AED 961.9 billion during the first six months of the year.
The economy grew by 0.4% compared with the same period in 2025, while non-oil activities expanded by 1.8%. The non-oil share also increased from 78.1% in the first half of last year, showing continued progress in the country’s economic diversification.
Financial Services and Technology Lead Sector Growth
Financial and insurance activities recorded the fastest growth among the major sectors, rising by 14.8% in the first half of 2026. Information and communication activities followed with growth of 7.3%, while health and social work grew by 6%.
Construction activities increased by 5.1%, and real estate activities grew by 2.3%. These results highlight the importance of financial services, technology, healthcare and construction in supporting the UAE’s non-oil economy.
Trade remained the largest contributor to non-oil GDP, accounting for 16.2% of non-oil economic activity. Financial and insurance activities contributed 15.2%, followed by construction at 13.1% and manufacturing at 11.8%.
For businesses, these figures provide a useful view of where economic activity is taking place. Companies considering expansion can use business planning and strategy to assess market demand, available resources and potential costs before committing to new projects. However, national growth figures alone cannot guarantee that every company or sector will experience the same results.
Economic Growth Faces Regional Challenges
Despite the positive results for the first half of the year, economic conditions remain uncertain.
The UAE’s real GDP reached AED 476.9 billion in the second quarter of 2026 but declined by 2.1% compared with the same period last year. Non-oil activities also fell by 1.1% during the quarter.
According to the FCSC, regional developments affected several areas, particularly tourism, transport and trade. This shows why businesses need to assess both growth opportunities and possible risks when making financial decisions.
Companies that rely on travel, transport or trade should review their sales expectations, operating costs and cash flow. Budgeting and forecasting can help businesses prepare realistic revenue targets, plan spending and identify possible cash shortages. Regular bookkeeping also gives business owners a clearer view of income, expenses and financial performance.
GDP Figures May Be Updated in 2027
The FCSC has confirmed that it is working with national statistical partners on a comprehensive review of the UAE’s GDP data. Updated national GDP time series are expected in the first quarter of 2027, after the review results are approved.
The current figures are preliminary estimates based on existing statistical methods and data series. Businesses should follow future official updates when reviewing economic trends and preparing financial plans.
What Should Businesses Do Now?
The latest figures offer a timely reason for UAE businesses to review their plans for the coming year. Companies should assess market demand, set realistic revenue targets and ensure their financial plans reflect current operating conditions.
Businesses should also review their tax and compliance obligations as they plan for growth. Keeping financial records accurate and meeting relevant tax requirements can help companies manage their responsibilities and make informed decisions.
For businesses planning to enter new markets or expand operations, business setup consultancy can help them understand the steps involved in establishing or structuring their operations in the UAE.
Dubai Business and Tax Advisors (DBTA) supports businesses with business planning, budgeting and forecasting, bookkeeping, and UAE tax and compliance matters. With reliable financial information and a clear plan, companies can make better-informed decisions as the UAE’s economic landscape continues to develop.
