Mohammed bin Rashid Approves the General Budget Cycle for Dubai Government for 2026-2028
In a strategic move that underscores Dubai’s commitment to economic development and sustainable growth, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Prime Minister, has approved Law No. 15 of 2025 regarding the general budget cycle for the Dubai Government for the years 2026-2028. This budget highlights Dubai’s future vision, featuring investments totaling 302.7 billion dirhams, making it the largest in the emirate’s history. This initiative is part of Dubai’s efforts to enhance investment sectors, foster entrepreneurship, and effectively meet community needs, all while striving to strengthen its position as a global hub for opportunities and innovation.
Budget Details and Spending Trends
The Dubai Finance Department announced the approval of the general budget cycle for 2026-2028, with total expenditures of 302.7 billion dirhams and revenues estimated at 329.2 billion dirhams. These figures reflect the direction stemming from the emirate’s ambitious economic strategy, with the government aiming for an operational surplus of 5% of the expected GDP for 2026. This aims to support financial sustainability, enabling Dubai to confidently face future challenges.
A Future Vision for Transformation and Innovation
The new budget goes beyond merely supporting the local economy; it focuses on nurturing innovative projects, advancing space research, and enhancing digitization. In the 2026 plan, total expenditures of 99.5 billion dirhams are allocated for stimulus and development projects, contributing to the achievement of the Dubai 2033 plan and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. This direction demonstrates the government’s commitment to developing social sectors, including health and education, and allocating resources according to specified priorities.
Enhancing Transparency and Financial Efficiency
Abdul Rahman Saleh Al Saleh, Director General of Dubai Finance, emphasized the importance of establishing a flexible and scalable financial plan to ensure financial sustainability and increase Dubai’s attractiveness for foreign investments. This affirmation aligns with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum regarding the importance of disciplined financial policies, reflecting the government’s commitment to a stable financial future and its ability to face challenges.
Investing in Infrastructure and Digitization
On another front, the budget reflects a future-oriented approach to supporting infrastructure, with 48% of expenditures allocated to enhancing transportation and public facilities projects. Additionally, significant investments are being made in the technology sector and digital payments, which bolster Dubai’s competitiveness as a global hub for the digital economy. The government is also working to enhance transparency by publishing financial data, facilitating access to information, and contributing to increased economic fairness.
The approval of the general budget cycle for the Dubai Government for 2026-2028, centered around a vision of sustainable development, reaffirms Dubai’s commitment to its position as a leading global hub that attracts investors and innovators from around the world. It is clear that this budget sets the stage for a prosperous tomorrow and a promising future.