Sheikh Mohammed Approves AED 92.4 Billion Federal Budget for 2026
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Cabinet has approved the federal budget for 2026, which is projected at AED 92.4 billion in both revenues and expenditures. This budget marks a significant milestone as the largest in the country’s history since the establishment of the Union.
Historic Meeting at Qasr Al Watan
The decision was finalized during a meeting led by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi. In a post on social media, Sheikh Mohammed announced, “I chaired today’s Cabinet meeting at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, during which we approved the federal budget for 2026, with estimated revenues of AED 92.4 billion and balanced expenditures of the same amount.”
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of this budget, stating, “The 2026 federal budget is the largest since the establishment of the Union. It strengthens the federal system and reflects our continued commitment to balanced and sustainable development.”
Commitment to Sustainable Development
The federal budget’s approval showcases the UAE’s ongoing investment in long-term financial stability and growth. Alongside the budget, the Cabinet approved a program designed to enhance the Federal Financial Centre through annual allocations from the federal budget. This initiative aims to ensure the financial sustainability of federal institutions.
Moreover, the Cabinet reviewed the results of the UAE’s National Agenda for Outward Foreign Direct Investment for 2024. Findings revealed that the country’s cumulative foreign investment abroad reached AED 1.05 trillion, marking a 9 percent increase from the previous year. This positions the UAE first in the Arab world and among the top 20 global economies for outward foreign direct investment.
Sheikh Mohammed’s Vision for Economic Growth
Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the significance of these figures, reinforcing the strength and expanding global reach of the UAE’s economy. He stated, “Our investments continue to grow, our trade is accelerating, and our economy is moving steadily forward.” His statements reflect the Cabinet’s positive outlook on economic trajectories and investments, underlining the robust fiscal policies in place.
In addition to the budget, 35 international agreements and memoranda of understanding were approved during the meeting, focusing on economic collaboration and cooperation. Further, the Cabinet evaluated the UAE’s export development policy, which witnessed a substantial increase in exports from around AED 470 billion in 2019 to AED 950 billion in 2024, representing a remarkable growth of 103 percent.
Ensuring Prosperity Under Strong Leadership
Sheikh Mohammed commented on the balanced nature of the budget, saying, “Our budgets are balanced, our investments are growing, and our nation continues to advance in prosperity and stability under the leadership of my brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.” His comments reflect a commitment to moving the country toward continued progress and prosperity.
The Cabinet’s decisions underscore the UAE’s strategic commitment to enhancing its economic framework and global standing. By establishing a federal budget that fosters sustainability and growth, the country is poised to navigate the challenges of an ever-evolving global economy.
The UAE’s approach not only emphasizes a balanced budget but also accentuates investment in critical areas that contribute to national development. The proactive measures being undertaken signify a future-focused vision, where sustainable growth mechanisms are core to the federal agenda.
Published on 1761594435 • Category: Politics & Economics,Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Federal budget, Qasr Al Watan, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE, UAE Cabinet