UAE Launches Federal Budget Yearbook 2026 Investing in People

The UAE Ministry of Finance (MoF) has launched the Federal Budget Yearbook 2026 under the theme “Investing in People, Securing the Future.” The yearbook emphasises a human-centred approach, placing individuals at the heart of national development planning while showcasing the UAE’s robust financial system and its ability to support sustainable growth despite global challenges.

Focus on Financial Sustainability

His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance, stated that the 2026 federal budget aims to build a sustainable future by investing in people, improving quality of life, and ensuring long-term financial stability. He highlighted the government’s commitment to directing resources efficiently to sectors that directly impact society and the economy’s capacity to adapt to global changes.

Efficient Financial Planning

The budget continues to evolve with economic trends, enhancing efficiency and alignment with national priorities. Artificial intelligence is increasingly integrated into budget management to strengthen planning and fiscal sustainability. The 2026 budget maintains a fiscal balance for the second year, with revenues and expenditures at AED 92.4 billion, a 29% increase from 2025.

Key spending priorities include:

• Public services: AED 30.8 billion

• Education: AED 16.9 billion

• Healthcare: AED 5.7 billion

• Housing: AED 3.7 billion

• Economic affairs: AED 1.4 billion

• Other sectors: AED 33.9 billion

Integrated Financial Vision

His Excellency Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, UAE Minister of State for Financial Affairs, explained that the yearbook presents a long-term financial vision connecting spending, performance, and outcomes. The focus is on improving financial planning, diversifying revenue, strengthening debt management, and expanding public-private partnerships.

The yearbook adopts a modern narrative, showing real developmental impact rather than just figures, helping the public understand the role of the federal budget in societal growth.

Development and Economic Impact

Aligned with UAE Centennial 2071, the yearbook demonstrates how the federal budget supports national objectives, sustainable growth, and a competitive economic model. It highlights achievements in education, healthcare, government services, and economic development, while promoting entrepreneurship, talent development, and a flexible investment environment.

Digital Transformation and Transparency

The yearbook also highlights the UAE’s leadership in digital transformation and AI in financial management, improving decision-making, efficiency, and service delivery. This reflects the government’s commitment to transparency, trust, and global leadership in modern public financial management.

The Federal Budget Yearbook 2026 reinforces the UAE’s vision of a people-focused, sustainable, and resilient economy, demonstrating the government’s strategic approach to long-term national development.