GULF CONSULT Advisory on
UAE Economy 2025 in Numbers: Non-Oil Growth and the Sector Opportunity Map for Investors
UAE real GDP grew 6.2% in 2025 and the non-oil economy 6.8%. Which sectors led, and what it means for investment and expansion.
Full-year figures from the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre show the UAE economy grew 6.2% in real terms in 2025, to about AED 1.9 trillion. The non-oil economy did better still, growing 6.8% to about AED 1.5 trillion.
The Fastest-Growing Sectors
Real growth in 2025:
- Construction: 11.1%
- Financial services and insurance: 10.4%
- Real estate: 7.9%
- Transport and storage: 7.8%
The Largest Sectors
Share of non-oil GDP in 2025:
- Trade: about 17%
- Financial services and insurance: 13.2%
- Construction: 12.9%
- Manufacturing: 12.8%
Against the Vision 2031 Targets
"We the UAE 2031" aims for GDP of AED 3 trillion by 2031. At about AED 1.9 trillion in 2025, the economy has come a long way from the AED 1.49 trillion baseline, but reaching the target still needs sustained strong growth.
What It Means for Investors
Construction, financial services and logistics combine fast growth with policy support. Before expanding, test the plan with a feasibility study and valuation, and model the corporate tax and VAT position of the structure you choose.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did the UAE economy grow in 2025?
Real GDP grew 6.2% to about AED 1.9 trillion, and non-oil GDP grew 6.8% to about AED 1.5 trillion.
What is the largest non-oil sector in the UAE?
Trade, at about 17% of non-oil GDP in 2025.
Sources
- The National: UAE GDP hit $517bn in 2025 as non-oil sector grew 6.8%
- Zawya: UAE economy grows 6.2% in 2025 as non-oil sectors drive expansion
This article is general information, not advice for your situation. Rules change; check the current position or speak to an advisor before acting.
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