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Top Sectors Attracting Global Investment in the UAE

Top Sectors Attracting Global Investment in the UAE
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Manufacturing Leads New UAE Greenfield Investment

Manufacturing Leads New UAE Greenfield Investment

Manufacturing was the largest sector by announced greenfield FDI projects in the UAE in 2025, accounting for 30% of greenfield investment. The sector is supported by efforts to strengthen domestic industrial capacity and attract advanced production. The UAE is also targeting technology-intensive manufacturing as part of its wider economic diversification and investment strategy. 

Communications And AI Infrastructure Attract Major Capital

Communications And AI Infrastructure Attract Major Capital

Communications accounted for 29% of announced UAE greenfield FDI in 2025. The sector has been supported by large investments in digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence. The Stargate UAE project, an AI computing cluster part of the UAE’s investment strategy, with digital infrastructure, software, AI and ICT attracting international capital. The OECD notes that in Abu Dhabi, is one example of the country’s effort to build advanced digital capacity and attract global technology investment. 

Real Estate Continues To Draw Global Investors

Real Estate Continues To Draw Global Investors

Real estate accounted for 7% of announced greenfield FDI projects in the UAE in 2025. Investor interest has been supported by wealth migration and the country’s growing appeal to international talent. The broader investment landscape also shows real estate holding a significant share of inward FDI stock alongside wholesale, retail, finance and other sectors. 

Finance And Insurance Remain Major Investment Areas

Finance And Insurance Remain Major Investment Areas

Finance and insurance account for 21% of the UAE’s inward FDI stock, according to the country’s investment report. The financial sector is also benefiting from the growth of fintech and digital services. Free zones have helped attract foreign businesses by offering ownership flexibility and specialised regulatory environments for financial and professional services. 

Technology Investment Is Moving Beyond Traditional Software

Technology Investment Is Moving Beyond Traditional Software

Technology is becoming a core part of the UAE’s investment strategy, with digital infrastructure, software, AI and ICT attracting international capital. The OECD notes that foreign investment is increasingly targeting knowledge-intensive sectors. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are emerging as major hubs for technology and R&D activity as the UAE pushes its wider digital-economy agenda. 

Renewable Energy And Clean Industries Gain Momentum

Renewable Energy And Clean Industries Gain Momentum

Renewable energy is among the non-oil sectors attracting foreign investment as the UAE expands its clean-energy ambitions. The OECD identifies renewable energy, transport and logistics among sectors targeted by new foreign establishments. The country is also seeking investment in sustainable industries as it works to diversify economic activity beyond hydrocarbons. 

UAE Investment Is Broadening Across Non-Oil Sectors

UAE Investment Is Broadening Across Non-Oil Sectors

The UAE attracted AED 177.3 billion in FDI inflows during 2025, according to the latest government data. Manufacturing and communications led announced greenfield investment, while finance, real estate, technology and sustainable industries remain important areas. The trend reflects the UAE’s broader push to build a diversified economy and attract long-term international capital.

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