The IMF projects Abu Dhabi’s economy to expand by 6% and Dubai’s by 3.4% in 2025.
According to the IMF’s Middle East and North Africa Regional Economic Outlook, the UAE is expected to post overall growth of 4.8% this year, rising to nearly 5% in 2026. This is the highest among GCC countries.
The IMF attributed Abu Dhabi’s performance to rising oil production following the easing of OPEC+ limits and strong activity in real estate and services. Dubai’s growth, meanwhile, continues to be driven by tourism, financial services, and property.
The outlook reflects continued confidence in the UAE’s economic diversification strategy and resilience across both hydrocarbon and non-oil sectors.
Gulf Economist Staff Writer