Dubai has approved its general budget cycle for 2026–2028, marking the largest financial framework in the emirate’s history. The plan outlines total expenditures of AED302.7 billion and revenues of AED329.2 billion, ensuring a strong foundation for sustainable growth and long-term fiscal stability. With this step, the emirate aims to reinforce its position as a global centre for innovation, economic opportunity and high-quality living.
During the implementation phase, the Department of Finance expects to achieve an operating surplus of up to 5% of Dubai’s projected GDP for 2026. This strategy supports future resilience while encouraging investment across priority sectors. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum highlighted that “Dubai’s general budget cycle for 2026–2028 provides a financial roadmap that accelerates Dubai’s ambitions to enhance the growth of its key sectors and solidify its position as a global economic centre.” He added that the budget supports the goal of doubling Dubai’s GDP within the next decade and ensuring a balanced approach to stability and expansion.
The financial cycle incorporates strategic investments in space research, digital transformation, and artificial intelligence. It also promotes entrepreneurship and enhances the ecosystem supporting knowledge-driven and innovation-led growth across the emirate.
2026 Budget Prioritises Social Services, Infrastructure and Economic Strategy
The estimated expenditure for the fiscal year 2026 stands at AED99.5 billion. This allocation reinforces Dubai’s commitment to development projects, macroeconomic growth and the targets of both Dubai Plan 2033 and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. The 2026 budget places significant emphasis on social services, dedicating 28% of total spending to health, education, housing, research, youth, sports and community welfare.
Additionally, 18% of the budget is directed to the security, justice and safety sector, supporting operational excellence and maintaining the emirate’s reputation for preparedness. Infrastructure remains central to the plan, accounting for 48% of projected government expenditure. This includes investments in transport networks, parks, renewable energy facilities, waste management systems and public service buildings. A further 6% supports performance-enhancing government development initiatives that promote excellence and innovation.
Revenues for 2026 are projected at AED107.7 billion, which includes AED5 billion in general reserves. According to Abdulrahman Saleh Al Saleh, “Announcing a flexible, scalable financial plan is important to enhance fiscal sustainability, competitiveness, and transparency — key pillars that strengthen Dubai to attract more investments.” He noted that the budget aligns with strategic objectives related to government digitisation, social development and economic competitiveness.
Strengthened Governance, Digital Transformation and Financial Innovation
Dubai’s financial strategy continues to advance its digital transformation goals while improving transparency and public sector performance. Aref Abdulrahman Ahli stated that the three-year planning approach “showcases the emirate’s stable financial position,” noting that disciplined fiscal policies contribute to an operating surplus of 22% of total revenues. He highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen spending efficiency and integrate strategic and fiscal planning.
The government is also expanding innovation in revenue systems, supported by the Financial Data Platform, which enhances access to accurate financial information. Ahmad Ali Meftah explained that strengthening transparency remains a core priority and that digital payment initiatives continue to support the Dubai Cashless Strategy. These efforts drive efficiency, reinforce global competitiveness and advance the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
The emirate is additionally adopting International Public Sector Accounting Standards, positioning itself among the first in the region to fully implement global frameworks that elevate budget execution and overall performance. Meanwhile, shared services programmes continue to support operational efficiency across government entities. Hamed Abdulghafoor Alawadhi noted that recent initiatives, including the Dubai Government Unified Contact Centre, enhance communication and deliver an integrated customer experience.
The 2026 budget provides the resources required to advance technical infrastructure and support a more agile, innovative and sustainable government. These efforts collectively strengthen Dubai’s long-term vision and ensure continued progress toward a smarter and more resilient future.
