The UAE Cabinet, chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, has approved the UAE federal budget 2026 with the estimated revenue and expenditures of Dh91.4 billion. Hence, it makes it the largest in the history of the country since the establishment of the union.
The announcement was made during the cabinet meeting held at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi. Moreover, the 2026 budget highlights the ongoing commitment of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to balance sustainable development. Hence, it strengthened the federal system and supported the long-term national priorities.
Sheikh Mohammed said, “Our budgets are balanced, our investments are increasing, our foreign trade is boosting, and our economy is growing.” Thus, he highlights the financial strength of the UAE and global leadership.
Strengthening Federal Governance and Balanced Development
Sheikh Mohammed said the 2026 budget reconfirms the commitment of the UAE to balanced and sustainable development. Hence, it further consolidates the federal governance framework of the country.
He noted, “The 2026 federal budget is the largest since the establishment of the union – a budget that strengthens the federal systems and shows our continued commitment to balanced and sustainable development”.
The Cabinet also approved the creation of a new programme to support and reinforce the Federal Financial Centre. Hence, it ensures long-term financial sustainability for the federal institutions through the dedicated annual allocation from the national budget.
UAE’s Foreign Investment Reaches Dh1.05 Trillion
The meeting also reviewed the results of the 2024 National Agenda for Outward Foreign Direct Investment. So, it revealed that the UAE Foreign investment abroad reached Dh1.05 trillion, which represents a 9 per cent growth compared to the last year. This achievement supports the positions of the UAE as the first in the Arab world and among the 20 global economies in outward foreign direct investment.
Export Development Policy Yields 103% Growth
The UAE export development policy has led to a remarkable increase of 103% in exports, which rose from Dh470 billion to Dh950 billion. Moreover, this growth highlights the effectiveness of the long-term economic strategies of the nation that aim at diversification, innovation, and global trade partnerships.
The cabinet also approved 35 international agreements and memoranda of understanding in the fields of economy, trade, and cooperation. Hence, these agreements further expand the international partnerships of the UAE and investment footprint.
UAE Federal Budget 2026 – A Vision for a Prosperous and Sustainable Future
The UAE Federal Budget 2026 highlights the leadership’s unwavering focus on sustainable growth, financial stability, and global competitiveness. Thus, Sheikh Mohammed praised the efforts of all government sectors.
Moreover, he adds, “Our nation continues to advance in prosperity and stability under the leadership of my brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Together, we continue to move from one peak to another to ensure a dignified life for our people and all who call the UAE home.”
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is firmly on track to achieve its vision of economic resilience and global leadership in the year ahead due to a balanced budget, growing investments, and accelerating trade.
Key Highlights at a Glance
- Federal Budget 2026: Dh92.4 billion in both revenues and expenditures — the largest in UAE history.
- Foreign Investment: Dh1.05 trillion in outward investment, marking a 9% annual growth.
- Export Growth: 103% increase in exports over five years, from Dh470 billion to Dh950 billion.
- 35 International Agreements: Strengthening UAE’s global cooperation and economic ties.
- New Financial Programme: To enhance the Federal Financial Centre’s long-term sustainability.
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