The UAE Cabinet has greenlit its largest-ever federal budget for 2026, with projected revenues and expenditures totaling 92.4 billion dirhams. Announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the budget reflects a 29% increase compared to 2025, underscoring the nation’s robust economic trajectory. Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the UAE’s balanced budgets, growing investments, accelerating foreign trade, and expanding economy, positioning the country as a global leader in foreign direct investment (FDI). The budget allocation spans key sectors: 37% (Dh34.6 billion) for social development and pensions, 29% (Dh27.1 billion) for government affairs, 17% (Dh15.4 billion) for financial investments, 14% (Dh12.7 billion) for federal expenses, and 3% (Dh2.6 billion) for infrastructure and economic development. The UAE’s outbound FDI reached Dh1.05 trillion in 2024, a 9% year-on-year increase, with Dh86 billion flowing into global markets. The nation ranks among the top 20 global investors, leading the Arab world, West Asia, and the MENA region in FDI contributions. Over the past five years, non-oil exports surged by 247% to Dh139.3 billion, while total imports grew by 115% to Dh666.5 billion. The Cabinet also approved 35 international agreements, further cementing the UAE’s role as a global economic powerhouse.