By Desmond Nleya
The United Arab Emirates’ economy is forecast to expand by more than five percent in 2026, underpinned by sustained growth in the non-oil sector and a competitive, investor-friendly business environment, Minister of Economy and Tourism Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri has said.
The minister noted that non-oil sectors are expected to grow by over 5.5 percent this year and contribute approximately 78 percent to the national GDP — a milestone that underscores the country’s successful diversification strategy.
He attributed the positive outlook to the UAE’s long-term economic vision and the ongoing modernisation of its legislative framework. Over the past several years, more than 40 business-related laws and regulations have been amended to streamline procedures, enhance transparency, and strengthen investor confidence.
The sharp rise in company registrations further reflects the country’s growing appeal as a global investment hub. Businesses listed in the national economic register have more than doubled over the past five years — climbing from around 650,000 to more than 1.45 million. Authorities anticipate the figure will reach two million by 2031.
The minister also highlighted leadership-driven reforms aimed at improving ease of doing business, including updates to the Commercial Companies Law, which have made the UAE an attractive base for family-owned enterprises managing regional and international operations.
These developments, he said, reinforce the UAE’s standing as one of the world’s most dynamic and future-ready economies.
Source: Emirates News Agency
