Mergers and acquisitions activity in the Middle East recorded a sharp rise in 2025, with deal values increasing 260% year on year to reach $53bn in the first nine months of the year.

The UAE has issued two federal decree laws to modernise capital markets and strengthen financial oversight. The legislation enhances the role of the Capital Market Authority, clarifying its responsibility to regulate licensed financial activities.

The UAE’s long-term focus on economic diversification and sustainable growth is expected to drive significant job creation in the year ahead.

The UAE’s tourism sector maintained strong growth in 2025, contributing $70.06bn to the country’s GDP, representing 13% of the national economy.

The UAE reinforced its position as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies in 2025, driven by strong non-oil trade performance, rising investment inflows, and stable fiscal management.

The UAE and the EU have officially launched negotiations on a strategic partnership agreement, marking a new phase in bilateral cooperation.

Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB) has successfully completed an AED 6.1bn rights issue, which closed on 4 December 2025. The offering attracted exceptional demand, with total funded commitments exceeding AED 12bn from UAE, regional and international investors.

Dubai Chambers has signed an MoU with Ahya Technologies to accelerate the adoption of ESG standards across the emirate’s business community.

Delegates from Abu Dhabi have concluded a visit to India and Singapore aimed at expanding economic ties and advancing partnerships across several high-growth sectors.

The GCC is set for stronger economic performance in 2025, with momentum fuelled by structural reforms and rapid advances in digital technology, according to the World Bank’s latest Gulf Economic Update. The report forecasts growth of 4.8% for the UAE and 3.8% for Saudi Arabia, with Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, and Kuwait expected to expand between