Dubai's GDP Surges By 4.7% To AED 122 Billion In Second Quarter Of 2025

Dubai's economy showed robust growth in the first half of 2025, exceeding expectations and solidifying its status as a leading global urban economy. The emirate's GDP rose by 4.4% to AED241 billion during this period. In the second quarter alone, GDP increased by 4.7% to AED122 billion. This impressive performance was driven by key sectors that continue to support Dubai's sustainable growth and economic resilience.

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum emphasised the role of visionary leadership in Dubai's economic success. He stated, "Dubai’s economic performance reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, whose leadership has created a unique model of sustainable growth defined by innovation, excellence and global competitiveness."

The human health and social work activities sector led with a 20% growth rate, contributing 1.4% to overall GDP growth. The construction sector also performed well, growing by 8.5% and adding 6.7% to Dubai’s GDP in H1 2025. These sectors highlight Dubai's ability to adapt to global changes while maintaining long-term competitiveness.

Helal Saeed Almarri, Director-General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), noted the importance of public-private partnerships in achieving these results. He said, "Dubai’s first-half GDP performance reflects the strong vision and leadership... It highlights our city’s ability to continually adapt to shifting global dynamics." This adaptability is crucial for advancing the long-term objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.

Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori from Digital Dubai highlighted how digital transformation supports economic goals: "Guided by our visionary leadership, Dubai has built a solid foundation for sustainable development." This foundation strengthens its position as a global business hub through technology adoption across all sectors.

The real estate sector saw significant growth with a 40% increase in sales during H1 2025. It expanded by 6.4% in Q2, contributing 8.9% to GDP with a total value of AED10.8 billion. Over H1, it grew by 7%, contributing 8.2% to GDP.

Data-Driven Decision Making Enhances Competitiveness

Younus Al Nasser from the Dubai Data and Statistics Establishment stressed collaboration between government entities and private sectors: "The remarkable outcomes achieved... reflect exceptional performance across key sectors." This partnership shapes a future where innovation drives progress.

The financial services sector recorded a 7.7% growth in Q2 2025, reaching AED14.2 billion compared to AED13.2 billion last year, contributing 11.6% to GDP.

Diverse Sectors Contribute to Economic Resilience

The tourism sector benefited from an increase in international visitors, reaching 9.88 million in H1 2025—up by 6%. It grew by 6.9% in Q2, contributing significantly to GDP with a total value added of AED8.7 billion.

The manufacturing sector reached AED29.9 billion in Q2 with a growth rate of 4.3%. In H1, it achieved a growth rate of 4.4%, contributing significantly to GDP at AED57.4 billion.

Commitment to Sustainable Development

Hadi Badri from DEDC highlighted how innovation-friendly policies enhance competitiveness: "The robust expansion we witnessed... is the direct result of creating a business ecosystem purpose-built for agility." As they enter the next phase, they aim to broaden economic diversification further.

The Dubai Data and Statistics Establishment is recalibrating key economic indicators using new data sources for better accuracy and reliability in support of developmental objectives.

Overall, Dubai's economy continues its upward trajectory through strategic planning and effective execution across diverse sectors.

With inputs from WAM