The United Arab Emirates recorded real GDP of AED 961.9 billion in the first half of 2026. It marked 0.4% growth from the same period last year. Non-oil activities expanded by 1.8%, accounting for 79.2% of the economy, according to the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC).
The figures highlight the growing role of non-oil sectors in the UAE economy. Oil activities contributed the remaining 20.8% of real GDP during the January-June period.
However, economic activity weakened in the second quarter. Real GDP fell 2.1% year on year to AED 476.9 billion, while non-oil activities contracted by 1.1%. The FCSC attributed the pressure on several sectors, particularly tourism, transport and trade, to regional developments and travel disruptions.
Also Read: All About UAE’s 2027 AI Economy Predictions
Financial and insurance activities recorded the strongest growth among major sectors, rising 14.8% in the first half of 2026. Information and communication followed with 7.3% growth, while health and social work activities increased 6%. Construction grew 5.1%, government activities advanced 3.6%, and real estate expanded 2.3% during the period. Trade accounted for the largest share of non-oil GDP at 16.2%. Financial and insurance activities contributed 15.2%, followed by construction at 13.1%, manufacturing at 11.8%, and real estate at 7.9%.
The FCSC said the first-half and second-quarter GDP figures are preliminary estimates based on existing statistical methods and time series. The centre is working with partners across the national statistical system on the UAE Comprehensive GDP Revision Program. The revised national GDP time series is scheduled for release in the first quarter of 2027, following approval of the revision results.