UAE non-oil economy lifts first-quarter GDP to AED485 billion

Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre figures reported by WAM and covered by Al Bayan show that UAE real GDP reached AED485 billion at constant prices in the first quarter of 2026. Non-oil GDP grew 4.8%, taking its share of the national economy to 79.4%, up from 78% a year earlier.

For investors and founders assessing the UAE from East and Southeast Asia, the figures provide evidence that growth is spread across a broad non-oil base rather than relying on one sector. Financial services, construction, real estate, technology and trade all contributed, but national growth data should be treated as market context rather than a forecast for any individual asset or business.

Use the sector breakdown as a starting point for research, then compare licensing, ownership, operating costs, demand and downside risk for the specific emirate and opportunity under consideration. A tailored shortlist should test each assumption against current official requirements before capital is committed.