The Federal National Council (FNC) has approved the UAE’s Union General Budget for the fiscal year 2025 during its second ordinary session of the 18th legislative chapter. The session, presided over by FNC Speaker Saqr Gobash, was attended by Abdulrahman bin Mohammad Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention and Minister of State for FNC Affairs, along with Mohamed Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs.
The 2025 budget has been set at AED71.5 billion for both revenues and expenditures, reflecting a balanced financial strategy. This marks the UAE’s largest budget to date and underscores its commitment to enhancing quality of life, achieving sustainable development, and strengthening its economy.
Strategic Allocations Across Key Sectors
The budget prioritizes key sectors, with AED27.859 billion (39% of the total) allocated to social development. This allocation includes:
- AED9.99 billion for public and higher education initiatives.
- AED5.505 billion for healthcare and community prevention programs.
- AED8.956 billion for social care services.
Additional allocations include:
- AED1.288 billion for culture and arts.
- AED660 million for housing.
- AED8.126 billion for defense affairs.
- AED8.179 billion for public safety and affairs.
- AED2.523 billion for economic affairs.
- AED23.431 billion for public services.
Focus on Sustainability and Growth
Minister Al Hussaini emphasized the budget’s role in supporting developmental, economic, and social projects, showcasing the UAE’s strong economic position and resource sustainability. He remarked that the allocations align with the leadership’s vision for a prosperous and sustainable future.
The budget also seeks to advance cultural, educational, and economic opportunities for UAE residents. The session highlighted the nation’s approach to strengthening critical sectors while ensuring fiscal responsibility.
Council Developments
During the same session, Marwan Obaid Al Muhairi and Mira Sultan Al Suwaidi were elected as Council observers by acclamation. This reflects the FNC’s commitment to inclusive leadership and collaborative decision-making.
This comprehensive fiscal plan underlines the UAE’s ambitions to maintain its status as a global leader in development, innovation, and quality of life.
