Sheikh Mohammed approves record Dh302.7 billion Dubai budget for 2026–2028
Image used for illustrative purpose. Photo: WAM
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai and the UAE’s Vice-President and Prime Minister, has approved Dubai’s largest budget cycle ever for the years 2026 to 2028. The plan includes total spending of Dh302.7 billion and total revenues of Dh329.2 billion, resulting in an operating surplus of 5 per cent.
For the year 2026 alone, the approved budget includes expenditures of Dh99.5 billion and revenues of Dh107.7 billion, with a general reserve of Dh5 billion. Dubai’s new financial plan aims to support strong economic growth while ensuring long-term stability.
The 2026 budget allocates spending as follows:
- Social development: 28 per cent
- Security, justice and safety: 18 per cent
- Infrastructure and construction: 48 per cent
- Government development: 6 per cent
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, said the budget supports Dubai’s goal of doubling its GDP and becoming one of the world’s top three urban economies within the next decade. He added that the plan balances the emirate’s growth ambitions with financial stability.
Dubai officials explained that the budget is built on a flexible, sustainable financial strategy. The emirate will continue to improve spending efficiency and maintain a yearly funded reserve to support long-term stability.
A major focus of the budget is social development, covering health, education, family welfare and community services. Almost half of the 2026 spending will go to infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, parks and public transport, reflecting Dubai’s commitment to improving public facilities.
Ahmad Ali Meftah, Executive Director of the Central Accounts Sector at Dubai’s Department of Finance, said the emirate is moving forward with the Dubai Cashless Strategy, which aims to reduce the use of cash and increase secure digital payments. He noted that Dubai continues to develop initiatives that support its strategic goals and strengthen its public finance system.
Hamed Abdulghafoor Alawadhi, Executive Director of the Shared Services Sector at the Department of Finance, said the sector plays a key role in improving government operations and service quality. He highlighted the Dubai Government Unified Contact Centre, which improves communication with customers and supports better cooperation across government entities.
