News And Publications

Key Takeaways:

• Dubai’s tourism industry achieves third successive record-breaking year with 19.59 million international visitors in 2025, up 5% YoY
• Strategic partnerships, global marketing campaigns and major events contributed to Dubai welcoming 19.59 million international overnight visitors in 2025, marking a 5% increase compared to 18.72 million arrivals in 2024, according to data published by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), and a third successive year of record-setting figures. The city ended the year by welcoming more than 2 million visitors in a single calendar month for the first time in December, building strong momentum heading into 2026.

Dubai’s economy continued its upward trajectory in 2025, delivering strong growth that underscores its resilience and sustained momentum. The emirate recorded a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately AED355 billion during the first nine months of 2025, including AED113.8 billion in the third quarter alone. The economy expanded 4.7% in the first nine months and 5.3% in the third quarter, compared to the corresponding period in 2024. This performance reflects the vitality of the local economy and the success of the development policies driving prosperity across the emirate.

Dubai’s real estate sector achieved its strongest performance to date in 2025, with over 270,000 transactions worth AED 917 billion, up 20% year on year. Backed by clear regulations, disciplined market practices, and a long-term investment approach, the market has moved from rapid growth to sustainable leadership.

The results also confirm that Dubai’s real estate market is steadily progressing toward achieving the objectives of the Dubai Real Estate Sector Strategy 2033, which seeks to raise transaction volume by 70% to reach AED 1 trillion. This growth aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the economy and strengthen Dubai’s position among the world’s leading economic cities.

In his capacity as Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, has approved Law No. 15 of 2025 regarding the Government of Dubai's general budget cycle for the fiscal years 2026-2028, and the Dubai Government’s general budget for the fiscal year 2026.

The three-year budget cycle for 2026-2028 has been approved with a total expenditure of AED302.7 billion and total revenues of AED329.2 billion. This budget cycle, the largest in the emirate’s history, aligns with future ambitions to promote sustainable economic growth, enhance community well-being, and solidify Dubai's reputation as a land of opportunity and innovation.

During the implementation of the 2026–2028 cycle, Dubai’s Department of Finance (DOF) expects to achieve an operating surplus of up to 5% of the emirate’s projected GDP for 2026, further solidifying long-term fiscal sustainability.