UAE business activity grows with rising female entrepreneurship and digital expansion

The United Arab Emirates is seeing significant growth in its business sectors, with notable developments in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai. In Abu Dhabi, the Abu Dhabi Registration Authority (ADRA) reported a 6.4 per cent increase in new economic licences issued to Emirati female entrepreneurs during the first half of 2026. A total of 3,058 licences were issued to Emirati women between January and June 2026, up from 2,873 during the same period in 2025. This growth aligns with the National Strategy for Empowerment of Emirati Women (2023–2031) launched by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak.

In Dubai, the Dubai Business Registration and Licensing Corporation (DBLC) is expanding the emirate’s digital business ecosystem through a new investor register, a Unified Licence, and AI-powered services. During the first half of 2026, Dubai issued 58,337 licences across mainland and free zones, while renewing 173,652. The DBLC is focusing on transforming the investor journey and integrating government and private sector entities through a seamless digital environment, particularly supporting growth in fintech and artificial intelligence sectors.