Dubai has approved a record AED 302.7 billion ($82.4 billion) budget for the 2026-2028 cycle, with revenues projected to reach AED 329.2 billion ($89.6 billion). The three-year financial plan, the largest in the emirate’s history, reflects Dubai’s confidence in its economic trajectory and its commitment to sustainable growth.

Approved by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the budget cycle supports the government’s vision to advance the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the Dubai Strategic Plan 2033, while maintaining fiscal discipline and long-term stability.

The Dubai Department of Finance anticipates that the plan will generate an operating surplus of up to 5 percent of the emirate’s GDP in 2026, thereby strengthening Dubai’s fiscal sustainability and investor confidence.

For the 2026 fiscal year, expenditures are set at AED 99.5 billion, while revenues are forecast at AED 107.7 billion. Infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, public transport, and renewable energy facilities, account for 48 percent of total spending, highlighting Dubai’s focus on strengthening its physical and digital foundations.

Social development will remain a priority, with 28 percent of spending allocated to health, education, housing, and welfare initiatives, while 18 percent is dedicated to security, justice, and public safety.

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, said the budget provides “a financial roadmap that accelerates Dubai’s ambitions to enhance the growth of its key sectors and reinforce its position as a global economic centre.”

Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance, added that approving the largest budget in Dubai’s history “sends a clear message that Dubai’s progress is driven by limitless ambition and a forward-looking vision, and that the well-being and quality of life of its residents remains the government’s top priority.”

Abdulrahman Saleh Al Saleh, Director General of the Dubai Department of Finance, noted that the medium-term financial plan strengthens fiscal sustainability, competitiveness, and transparency, while advancing strategic priorities such as digital transformation, housing, research, and sustainability.