As global policymakers and business leaders prepare to descend on the Dubai World Trade Centre for the 15th edition of the AIM Congress, the UAE is celebrating a landmark year for its economy. Held from September 7 to 9 under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the event follows a banner year in 2025 where the nation secured a record Dh177.3 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI). This achievement propelled the UAE to ninth place globally and marked its fourth straight year of record inflows, bolstered by a strong commitment to greenfield projects where the country currently ranks second worldwide.

Beyond the surge in foreign capital, the UAE’s economic landscape is further strengthened by a significant expansion in the non-oil sector. With non-oil foreign trade hitting Dh1.937 trillion in the first half of 2026, the country is proving its resilience and diversification. The upcoming congress, themed “Reshaping Global Prosperity,” will explore these successes through a series of forums and networking sessions. Dawood Al Shezawi, Chairman of the AIM Global Foundation, noted that these figures reflect a fundamental shift in how the international community perceives the UAE—not just as a place to park capital, but as a strategic partner in driving long-term, sustainable global growth.