UAE Economic Resilience Driven by Record Non-Oil Growth
The UAE continues to demonstrate remarkable economic strength, recording a 6.2% growth rate in 2025 fueled by a robust 6.8% expansion in its non-oil sector. According to Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, the Minister of Economy, non-oil activities now represent over 79% of the nation's GDP. This success is underpinned by a historic influx of $48.3 billion in foreign direct investment, marking the fourth consecutive year of record-breaking performance. Moving forward, the government intends to shift its focus from merely adding new sectors to enhancing the value and technological sophistication of existing industries to ensure long-term stability.
At the ninth Sharjah Investment Forum, discussions centered on the necessity of resilience and the strategic development of human capital. Leaders and experts emphasized that true economic progress relies on sustainable management and the creative repurposing of local assetsâsuch as Sharjah's heritage projectsâto drive commerce. Prominent speakers like Simon Squibb noted that for modern entrepreneurs, building trust remains the most critical asset, while new technologies like artificial intelligence are effectively lowering the barriers to entry. With over 60 countries represented at the forum, the UAE is clearly cementing its position as a global hub for innovation, investment, and sustainable growth.