In the first half of 2025, the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry reported a significant increase in its membership, rising by 4.9% compared to the same period in 2024, surpassing 158,000 members. This growth highlights the resilience and strength of the business environment in the emirate, even amid global economic challenges. The statistics underscore the Chamber’s pivotal role in fostering private sector growth, supporting sustainable development, and empowering companies of all sizes by directing them toward emerging opportunities in prioritized sectors.
Growth in Key Sectors
The data released by the Chamber indicate impressive growth rates in strategic sectors. The agriculture, forestry, and fishing sector led the way with a remarkable 21% growth, followed by the arts and entertainment industry, which saw a 13% increase. Both the information and communications technology sector and professional and scientific activities experienced a 10% rise, reflecting a growing demand for creative, technological, and specialized services in the emirate.
Strategic Transformation
This uptick in Chamber memberships signals a strategic shift toward future sectors. The water supply and waste management field displayed a 9% growth, fueled by increasing environmental awareness and a focus on circular economy principles. Additionally, real estate and administrative services both recorded an 8% rise, driven by an active real estate market and a higher demand for business support services. The education sector also thrived with a 7% increase, indicative of the blossoming private educational institutions. Meanwhile, the transport and storage sector grew by 6%, buoyed by the expansion of supply chains and logistics activities. The mining and quarrying sector experienced a 5% uptick, while wholesale and retail trade achieved a 4% increase, reflecting stable consumer market performance. There was steady growth of 3% in construction, manufacturing, and financial activities. Conversely, the accommodation and food services sector rose by just 2%, primarily impacted by seasonal factors and shifts in consumption patterns.
Driving Diversity
Shams Ali Al Dhaheri, Deputy Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, commented on these results, stating, “These indicators clearly demonstrate the private sector’s role in the emirate. The substantial increase in membership in sectors like agriculture, modern technologies, and the arts showcases the far-reaching impact of Abu Dhabi’s ambitious economic growth agenda. The Chamber plays a central role in maintaining this momentum by promoting innovation, empowering high-impact partnerships, and facilitating economic opportunity.” He added, “We at the Abu Dhabi Chamber operate with a clear roadmap that focuses on preempting challenges and driving growth in high-value sectors. This is achieved through smart services, advocating impactful partnerships, and creating knowledge platforms that enable entrepreneurs to expand with confidence and sustainability.”
Traditional Sectors Maintain Stability
The results reflect the depth of diversity within the emirate’s economic base while indicating the rise of new sectors linked to knowledge, innovation, and sustainability, alongside the continued contributions of traditional sectors. The Abu Dhabi Chamber is committed to enhancing this balance by accelerating growth in emerging fields and equipping the private sector to adapt to global economic changes, backed by advanced service infrastructure and strategic partnerships that align with future aspirations.