The UAE has announced an ambitious National Investment Strategy 2031, aimed at tripling its cumulative foreign direct investment (FDI) to AED 2.2 trillion by the year 2031. Announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, the strategy was unveiled during the UAE’s Government Annual Meetings held in Abu Dhabi. This move is part of a larger vision to position the UAE as a leading global investment hub, despite global economic challenges.
In an effort to reinforce the UAE’s role as a magnet for international capital, the UAE launched the National Investment Strategy 2031, an initiative set to attract substantial foreign investment across various high-growth sectors. Sheikh Mohammed announced this strategic push, highlighting its role in elevating the UAE’s economic stature on a global scale. “Clear goals lead to great achievements. The UAE’s remarkable surge of 35% in foreign direct investment inflows to Dh112.6 billion in 2023, despite a global decline, affirms the success of our strategies and the high level of international confidence in our nation,” said Sheikh Mohammed.
The two-day Government Annual Meetings in Abu Dhabi gathered over 500 dignitaries, including rulers, crown princes, and federal and local officials, to discuss the future direction of national development. Discussions centered around three key national pathways: national identity, family support, and artificial intelligence. Additionally, panel discussions explored national priorities with participation from various heads of government entities.
During the sessions, Mohamed bin Hassan Al Suwaidi, Minister of Investment, emphasized the UAE’s impressive FDI performance since 2015, noting a 5.5-fold increase in its share of global FDI flows and a 17.3% increase in FDI inflows, despite an international decline of 5.3%.
Aligned with the “We the UAE 2031” vision, the strategy focuses on expanding the nation’s investment landscape. Key objectives include bolstering the UAE’s leadership in advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, and other priority sectors, alongside fostering Emirati entrepreneurship and attracting global talent. According to the Dubai Media Office, the strategy aims to increase cumulative FDI to AED 1.3 trillion, equating to 30% of national investment, with a goal to achieve a cumulative balance of AED 2.2 trillion by 2031.
The plan revolves around five core strategies: attracting new investments in high-potential sectors, expanding FDI in current projects, strengthening global partnerships, enhancing investor relations, and raising the UAE’s global competitiveness.
In 2023, the UAE achieved a major milestone, ranking second globally after the United States in the number of new foreign direct investment projects. The nation saw 1,323 new projects launched in 2023, reflecting a 33% growth over the previous year. According to a UNCTAD report, the UAE also rose five positions to reach 11th globally in FDI attraction.
Minister Al Suwaidi noted that, over the past decade, the UAE’s cumulative FDI balance has surged by 150%, far outpacing the global average growth rate of 97% between 2013 and 2023. This accelerated growth underscores the UAE’s ability to attract sustained foreign investment through targeted policy measures and strategic international partnerships.
