The Ministry of Finance (MoF) has officially launched the federal general budget cycle for 2027–2029, setting a new benchmark for fiscal planning in the UAE. Designed to promote sustainability, efficiency, and innovation, the new cycle aligns with national objectives outlined in the strategic plan ‘Towards Achieving We the UAE 2031’.
Coinciding with the announcement by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the updated cycle reflects a shift from traditional budgeting to a future-ready, strategic financial tool that enables effective planning across federal entities.
AI-powered transformation in financial governance
H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance, underscored the transformative intent behind the new approach. “Achieving the ambitions of the UAE Centennial 2071 requires a financial system that is agile and future-focused,” he stated.
He emphasised the Ministry’s investment in smart tools and advanced analytical models to drive financial efficiency and support data-driven decisions. The upgraded budget process will serve as a platform to strengthen global competitiveness, enhance government service quality, and further the UAE’s role as an international financial hub.
“Our vision is to transform the federal budget into a future-ready instrument that drives sustainable growth and elevates government services,” Sheikh Maktoum added.
Strategic priorities and fiscal strength
The latest cycle follows four previous strategic phases in which the federal budget totalled nearly AED900 billion, reflecting the government’s consistent focus on sound fiscal management and national development. As of June 2025, federal public debt remains stable at AED62.1 billion, while assets have grown to AED464.4 billion by the end of 2024.
The budget targets key sectors such as education, healthcare, social welfare, and government services. Prioritising these areas is intended to amplify societal impact, stimulate development, and realise the long-term goals of UAE Centennial 2071. Digital tools and AI will support improved planning accuracy, faster execution, and higher service quality.
Institutional efficiency reimagined
Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, noted that the Ministry has significantly streamlined budget preparation. “The number of steps was reduced from 50 to just 10, and procurement cycles were shortened from 60 days to under six minutes,” he revealed, describing it as a major leap in operational performance.
Al Hussaini added that artificial intelligence now plays a central role in enhancing performance and enabling government institutions to meet their goals more effectively. “Today, the Ministry of Finance is no longer merely a supervisory authority but a key enabler, driving the readiness of federal entities,” he said.
From numbers to impact
This advanced budgeting model incorporates predictive scenario planning and centralised data access, making it a smart financial management system. The new approach empowers government departments to make faster, more informed decisions and deliver services with greater precision.
By redefining the federal budget as a strategic enabler, the UAE continues to strengthen its global reputation for forward-thinking governance. This evolution supports national aspirations by reinforcing fiscal sustainability and ensuring every dirham spent contributes to transformative outcomes.
