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UAE economy projected to grow 5 percent by 2026
The World Bank projects the United Arab Emirates economy to grow by 5 percent in 2026, with growth potentially accelerating to 5.1 percent in 2027. This expansion is expected to be driven by sustained momentum in non-oil sectors, including tourism, aviation, real estate, and financial services, as part of ongoing economic diversification and structural reform efforts.
To support this trajectory, the UAE is accelerating major investments in tourism and leisure infrastructure. In Abu Dhabi, Miral is investing over AED 12 billion into Yas Island, which will include the $1.7 billion Sphere Abu Dhabi—the first venue of its kind outside the United States.
In Dubai, significant projects include the Al Layan Oasis, a one-million-square-meter environmental and recreational destination, and a AED 500 million redevelopment plan for Umm Suqeim Beach. These initiatives aim to enhance the country's competitiveness as a global destination and strengthen the non-oil economy.
Entities
A&A Associate · Abu Dhabi Fund for Development · Dubai · Miral · RAKEZ · Robin Philip · United Arab Emirates · World Bank
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The residency package costs $4,550 and includes a two-year investor residency visa and a business license for up to 10 commercial activities.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Profitability alone does not guarantee that a small or medium enterprise is saleable to potential buyers.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] A&A Associate and RAKEZ have launched a residency program designed to complete the process in five working days.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The residency program's initial phase is completed remotely within three working days.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The UAE allows foreign investors to have full ownership of businesses in many sectors without a local partner.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The UAE government provides support for entrepreneurs through free zones, digital services, and entrepreneurship programs.