Post by : Bianca
Haleem
Abu Dhabi – The UAE Cabinet, led by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has approved the federal budget for 2026, with both projected revenues and expenditures set at Dh92.4 billion. This constitutes the largest federal budget since the founding of the Union.
The 2026 plan is structured to promote balanced national development while strengthening federal governance. It includes a new programme to back the Federal Financial Centre, allocating annual funds to bolster the long-term resilience of federal institutions.
Rising Global Investments
The Cabinet underscored the UAE's expanding international economic footprint. Outbound foreign direct investment reached Dh1.05 trillion in 2024, a 9% increase from the previous year, placing the UAE at the top of the Arab world and among the top 20 global economies for outward FDI.
The government noted that this investment surge parallels a widening trade presence, with exports increasing from Dh470 billion in 2019 to Dh950 billion in 2024.
International Cooperation Strengthened
At the session, ministers approved 35 international agreements and memoranda of understanding across economic and cooperative fields. These measures aim to extend the UAE's global partnerships and reinforce its trade and development outreach.
Overall, the 2026 budget continues the UAE's strategy of preserving fiscal balance while promoting innovation, attracting investment and securing long-term prosperity for residents and the broader economy.
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