Dubai GDP Rises 4.4% in H1 2025, Driven by Key Sectors

Dubai’s economy continued its strong upward momentum in the first half of 2025, surpassing growth projections and solidifying its position as one of the world’s most dynamic business hubs. Official data shows the emirate’s GDP grew by 4.4%, reaching AED 241 billion, with the second quarter alone recording a 4.7% rise to AED 122 billion.

The steady growth reflects Dubai’s diversified economic base and its ability to sustain progress despite shifting global conditions. Key sectors such as health, construction, real estate, and finance played a pivotal role in driving performance, highlighting the emirate’s balanced and resilient growth model.

Among all industries, human health and social work activities posted the strongest results, surging 20% in H1 to AED 3.3 billion. The sector alone contributed 1.4% to Dubai’s overall GDP, underlining growing investment and confidence in healthcare and wellness infrastructure.

The construction sector also maintained impressive momentum, expanding 8.5% to AED 16 billion. This rise was powered by ongoing government-led development projects and sustained demand for infrastructure and housing.

Dubai’s real estate market continued to shine, with a 7% increase in H1 and value added reaching AED 19.8 billion. Property sales jumped 40%, underscoring strong investor confidence and international interest in Dubai’s realty landscape.

The financial and insurance sector grew 6.7%, contributing a significant 12.5% to GDP, supported by expanding investment activity and robust performance from leading financial institutions. Meanwhile, information and communications climbed 5.3%, reaffirming Dubai’s growing edge in technology and digital innovation.

Tourism-related businesses also saw renewed energy. The accommodation and food services sector grew 4.9% in H1 to AED 8.7 billion, buoyed by a 6% rise in international visitors—totaling 9.88 million in the first half of 2025.

Dubai’s largest economic contributor, wholesale and retail trade, expanded 4.4%, reaching AED 57.4 billion and accounting for nearly a quarter of the emirate’s GDP.

With its diverse growth engines and forward-focused planning, Dubai continues to demonstrate the agility and strength that define its global competitiveness. As new data recalibrations are underway to enhance accuracy and insight, the results of H1 2025 reaffirm Dubai’s steady progress toward its long-term vision under the D33 Economic Agenda—a future marked by innovation, opportunity, and sustained prosperity.