DUBAI : The emirate’s economy grew 4.4% year-on-year in the first half of 2025 to AED 241 billion ($65.6 billion), supported by strong performances in real estate, construction, finance and tourism, according to data released by the Dubai Data and Statistics Establishment.
Growth in the second quarter accelerated to 4.7%, lifting quarterly GDP to AED 122 billion, the report showed. The expansion reflects the continued impact of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, a 10-year strategy aimed at doubling the size of the emirate’s economy and positioning Dubai among the world’s top three global cities.
The construction sector grew 8.5%, contributing about AED 16 billion to GDP, while real estate activities expanded 7% to AED 19.8 billion, accounting for 8.2% of total output. The finance and insurance sector rose 6.7%, adding AED 30.2 billion, and wholesale and retail trade, Dubai’s largest sector, grew 4.4% to AED 57.4 billion, or nearly one-quarter of GDP.
The health and social work sector recorded the fastest growth at 20%, contributing AED 3.3 billion, while tourism and hospitality activities rose 4.9%, buoyed by a 6% rise in international visitors to nearly 9.9 million in the first half.
Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said the figures underscored Dubai’s resilience and the effectiveness of policies that turned “global challenges into opportunities for progress.”
Officials said the results highlight Dubai’s diversification away from oil and its focus on innovation, services, and high-value industries. Analysts, however, noted potential headwinds from global economic uncertainty, inflationary pressures, and risks of overheating in the property market.
Dubai’s economic planners aim to attract AED 650 billion in foreign direct investment over the next decade and maintain steady annual growth as part of the D33 strategy.
Dubai's economy grew 4.4% year-on-year in early 2025, reaching AED 241 billion, with significant contributions from real estate, construction, and tourism. The growth is part of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, aiming to double the economy and position Dubai among the top global cities.