Dubai Reveals Record-Setting $82 Billion Budget for 2026-2028

The Dubai government reveals a record-setting budget of $82.42 billion in spending for the next three years. In detail, this largest-ever medium-term spending plan approved a financial framework outline that prioritizes the emirate’s accelerating long-term economic expansion. The Dubai 2026–2028 budget also advances its strategic objectives.

According to the Dubai Media Office, projected revenues for the period are expected to reach $89.7 billion, with an operating surplus equivalent to 5% of the city’s estimated 2026 GDP. Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed said the plan reinforces Dubai’s ambition to strengthen key sectors and solidify its role as a leading global economic hub.

$27.1 Billion Allocated for 2026 Expenditure Alone

The Dubai budget 2026 funds will be directed toward infrastructure, public services, security, and community-focused programs. In detail, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, approved the budget, which allocates $27.1 billion in expenditure for 2026 alone. Of these funds, multiple sectors will receive varying shares of the allocation.

To specify, infrastructure and construction projects will receive the largest share at 48%, underlining their importance to the emirate’s growth trajectory. Meanwhile, community development will represent 28% of the Dubai government spending, while security, justice, and safety services account for 18%. The remaining 6% will go toward government development initiatives.

Dubai’s Economic Momentum Remains Strong

Dubai's revenue forecast for 2026 is estimated at $29.3 billion. So, Dubai’s economic momentum remains well on course, with the emirate expanding 4.4% in the first half of 2025. GDP for that period totalled $65.7 billion, while second-quarter output reached $33.2 billion, marking annual growth of 4.7%.

The Dubai D33 strategy aims to double the economy to $8.72 trillion by 2033, positioning Dubai among the world’s top three global cities and supporting the development of 30 local companies capable of achieving unicorn status.

The strategy also targets a substantial rise in foreign direct investment, seeking to increase average annual inflows from $8.7 billion to $16.35 billion, with a cumulative $177.2 billion expected over the next decade.

Tourism and Real Estate Fuel Dubai’s Economic Growth

The city welcomed 12.54 million international visitors between January and August 2025, marking a 5% increase year-on-year. The property market also remained robust, with more than 59,000 new investors entering the sector in the first half of the year. Transaction volumes surged to 125,538, up nearly 26%, while the total value of deals climbed to $117.5 billion.

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