H.H. Sheikh Mohammed approves largest budget in Dubai’s history

In his capacity as Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has approved a record budget for 2026-2028, with a total expenditure of AED302.7 billion and total revenues of AED329.2 billion.

Sheikh Mohammed, who also holds the position of Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, said the budget aligns with future ambitions to promote sustainable economic growth, enhance community well-being, and solidify Dubai's reputation as a land of opportunity and innovation.

It will include an operating surplus of up to 5 per cent.

"Dubai’s general budget cycle for 2026–2028 provides a financial roadmap that accelerates Dubai’s ambitions to enhance the growth of its key sectors and solidify its position as a global economic centre," said His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.

“The budget reinforces our commitment to future-focused sectors and ushers in a new phase of knowledge-driven, innovation-led growth in the digital economy. It expands opportunities for local entrepreneurship and supports a high-growth environment across all key sectors."

Mohammed bin Rashid approves largest budget in Dubai’s history

Dubai Government General Budget Cycle for 2026–2028

Total Expenditure: AED 302.7 billion

Total Revenues: AED 329.2 billion

Operating Surplus: 5%

His Highness also approved the Dubai Government General Budget for… pic.twitter.com/OUmZL4KLxW

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) November 23, 2025

The estimated expenditure for the fiscal year 2026 stands at AED99.5 billion, reaffirming Dubai’s commitment to supporting development projects, stimulating macroeconomic growth, and realising the objectives of the Dubai Plan 2033 and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

The 2026 budget prioritises social services and the development of health, education, culture, and infrastructure projects, allocating funds according to strategic priorities and governed by a unified framework adopted across all government entities.

Revenues for 2026 are projected at AED107.7 billion, including general reserves of AED5 billion.

The 2026 budget reflects the government’s strong commitment to people-centric development, with 28 per cent of total expenditure allocated to the social development sector covering health, education, scientific research, housing, family welfare, youth, sports, seniors, retirees, and people of determination.

The government also allocated 18% of total expenditure to the security, justice, and safety sector, ensuring it remains one of the emirate’s globally recognised strengths through enhanced preparedness and operational excellence.

Infrastructure investments — including roads, bridges, tunnels, public transport, sewage systems, parks, renewable energy facilities, waste management, and service buildings — account for 48 per cent of the total projected government expenditure for the 2026 fiscal year. In addition, 6 per cent of total spending is allocated to government development initiatives that support performance enhancement and promote a culture of excellence, innovation, and creativity.