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Arabian Business
04-07-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Abu Dhabi GDP hits $79.2bn in Q1 2025 as non-oil economy surges 6.1%
Abu Dhabi's economy continues to show strong momentum in 2025, with Gross Domestic Product (GDP) reaching AED291bn ($79.2bn) in the first quarter—a 3.4 per cent increase compared to Q1 2024, according to the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi (SCAD). Driving this growth is the emirate's expanding non-oil economy, which surged 6.1 per cent year-on-year to AED163.6bn ($44.5bn). For the first time ever in a Q1 period, non-oil sectors contributed 56.2 per cent of total GDP, underscoring Abu Dhabi's continued economic diversification efforts. Abu Dhabi economy The oil sector accounted for the remaining 43.8 per cent, or AED127.4bn ($34.7bn). Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), said: 'Day after day, Abu Dhabi's economy is reaffirming the success of the emirate's long-term strategy and the effectiveness of timely policies and measures to address changes and challenges in regional and global landscape. 'Our Falcon Economy orchestrates multi-dimensional strategies across different sectors, enabling us to build synergies and work in tandem to achieve Abu Dhabi and the UAE's strategic objectives'. The manufacturing sector was the largest non-oil contributor, adding AED28.5bn ($7.8bn) in value—a 5 per cent year-on-year increase. It now represents 9.8 per cent of the emirate's GDP. As part of this, new industrial licences rose 4.7 per cent and the number off factories shifting to production surged 65 per cent, reflecting sectoral expansion Construction posted the strongest growth among non-oil sectors at 10.2 per cent, reaching AED27.5bn ($7.5bn) and contributing 9.4 per cent to total GDP. This expansion is supported by continued investment in housing, infrastructure, and AI-powered permitting systems such as the Binaa platform. The finance and insurance sector grew 9.1 per cent to AED19.6bn ($5.3bn), buoyed by a 43 per cent increase in registered institutions at Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) and a 33 per cent rise in assets under management. Foreign investment into Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) hit AED8.5bn ($2.3bn), up 151 per cent year-on-year and ADX market capitalisation crossed AED2.93tn ($797.8bn), a 3.2 per cent increase. Other examples of the diverse non-oil growth across sectors, include: Wholesale and retail trade: AED16bn ($4.4bn), up 3.6 per cent Real estate: Up 6.7 per cent Transport and logistics: Grew 7.5 per cent, affirming Abu Dhabi's role as a logistics hub Health sector: Up 5.2 per cent, aligned with quality-of-life initiatives Professional and technical services: Contributed 10.3 per cent, driven by rising demand for knowledge economy jobs Arts and entertainment: Grew 8.4 per cent, reinforcing tourism and culture's growing impact Abu Dhabi's population climbed to 4.14m in 2024, up from 3.8m in 2023. This demographic surge complements the emirate's robust non-oil expansion, supporting demand for housing, public services, and jobs. The emirate's AED13bn ($3.5bn) Digital Strategy (2025–2027) aims to position Abu Dhabi as the world's first fully AI-native government by 2027. By automating all public sector operations, the plan will boost efficiency, enhance service delivery and stimulate innovation-led economic growth. Abdulla Gharib Alqemzi, Director General of the Statistics Centre, said: 'The first quarter of 2025 reaffirms the strength, adaptability, and maturity of Abu Dhabi's economic model. Our transition toward a diversified, knowledge-based economy continues to gain momentum, with high-growth sectors like manufacturing, construction, and financial services driving sustainable expansion'.
Economy ME
03-07-2025
- Business
- Economy ME
Abu Dhabi's GDP grows 3.4 percent to $79.2 billion in Q1 2025, driven by 56.2 percent from non-oil sector
Abu Dhabi's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) reached AED291 billion ($79.2 billion) in the first quarter of 2025, recording a 3.4 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024, official data revealed. According to the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi (SCAD) , this performance is driven by the strength of the non-oil economy, which expanded by 6.1 percent year-on-year, reaching AED163.6 billion. For the first time in the Q1 period, the non-oil sector contributed 56.2 percent of the total GDP, while the oil sector accounted for the remaining 43.8 percent, equivalent to AED127.4 billion. The results highlighted the effectiveness of Abu Dhabi's ongoing efforts to diversify its economic base. These achievements underscore the emirate's success in building a broad-based and resilient economy. With momentum driven by manufacturing, construction, financial services, real estate, and trade, the Q1 results reflect strong fundamentals and a well-coordinated economic strategy. His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), said: 'Day after day, Abu Dhabi's economy is reaffirming the success of the emirate's long-term strategy and the effectiveness of timely policies and measures to address changes and challenges in the regional and global landscape. Our Falcon Economy orchestrates multi-dimensional strategies across different sectors, enabling us to build synergies and work in tandem to achieve Abu Dhabi and the UAE's strategic objectives. 'The continued strong performance of non-oil sectors, accounting for 56.2 percent of the total GDP in Q1-2025, is a testament to this vision. The manufacturing sector's steady growth reflects Abu Dhabi's Industrial Strategy's (ADIS) success in turbocharging the sector and enhancing the emirate's status as a magnet for highly skilled talent, businesses, and quality investments. We remain committed to future-proofing our economy, building world-class hubs for financial services, advanced manufacturing, AI, trade and logistics, and new energy.' Growth of knowledge-based economy His Excellency Abdulla Gharib Alqemzi, director general of the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi, said: 'The first quarter of 2025 reaffirms the strength, adaptability, and maturity of Abu Dhabi's economic model. Our transition toward a diversified, knowledge-based economy continues to gain momentum, with high-growth sectors like manufacturing, construction, and financial services driving sustainable expansion. 'This economic resilience is particularly vital as Abu Dhabi's population continues to grow, reaching 4.14 million residents in 2024. Sustained economic growth is not only a sign of vitality; it's essential for supporting public services, investments, and the well-being of our expanding community. SCAD remains committed to providing trusted, timely data that informs decision-making and supports inclusive, long-term development.' Moreover, the manufacturing sector continued to lead the non-oil economy with a total value added of AED28.5 billion (over $7.75 billion) in Q1 2025. It grew by 5 percent compared to the same period last year and contributed 9.8 percent to the emirate's total GDP. In Q1 2025, the sector maintained its upward momentum, with the number of new industrial licenses increasing by 4.7 percent year-on-year, and the number of factories that progressed from under construction to production stage surged by 65 percent, underscoring the industrial sector's continued vitality and operational expansion. Construction activity experienced an expansion of 10.2 percent in Q1 2025, reaching a total value of AED27.5 billion and contributed 9.4 percent to the GDP of the emirate. The performance is linked to continued investment in infrastructure, housing, and urban development. Recent initiatives such as the launch of the Binaa digital building permit platform, powered by artificial intelligence, are expected to further enhance project delivery and regulatory efficiency across the construction landscape. Robust growth in finance and insurance The finance and insurance sector demonstrated robust growth, increasing by 9.1 percent compared to Q1 2024, generating AED19.6 billion in value. This sector contributed 6.7 percent to the total GDP, benefiting from Abu Dhabi's growing reputation as a regional and international financial hub. In the first quarter of 2025, ADGM saw a 43 percent rise in registered financial institutions and a 33 percent increase in assets under management compared to the same period last year. Regulatory updates and expanded investment programs have helped attract global financial firms to establish operations in the emirate. During the same period, the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), the second largest exchange in the MENA region, posted a strong performance. Its market capitalization rose 3.2 percent to exceed AED2.93 trillion, and foreign net investment skyrocketed by 151 percent to over AED8.5 billion, showing the growing confidence of international investors in Abu Dhabi's economy. Additionally, the wholesale and retail trade sector grew by 3.6 percent in Q1 2025, with a total value of AED16 billion and a 5.5 percent contribution to GDP. This reflects continued consumer confidence, supported by steady population growth and tourism recovery. The sector is also benefiting from Abu Dhabi's expanding global trade relations aimed at unlocking access to broader markets and reinforcing trade activity. Read more: Abu Dhabi introduces new real estate regulations to empower developers, protect investors Population growth and economic vitality Professional, scientific, and technical services, including administrative support activities, stood at 10.3 percent, supported by rising demand for business services and knowledge-based professions. The arts and entertainment services grew by 8.4 percent, reinforcing the role of cultural attractions and tourism in economic growth and diversification. The transportation and storage sector expanded by 7.5 percent, reflecting Abu Dhabi's strategic logistics role and growing connectivity. Real estate activities increased by 6.7 percent, with ongoing investment in residential and commercial development projects. The health sector grew by 5.2 percent, aligning with broader public service enhancements and efforts to improve quality of life. As Abu Dhabi's population reached 4.14 million residents in 2024, up from 3.8 million in 2023, its non-oil GDP continues to support the emirate's expanding population through sustained economic growth. This demographic trend reflects economic vitality and the government's long-term vision for sustainable development. Alongside this demographic momentum, Abu Dhabi's AED13 billion Digital Strategy (2025–2027) is driving the emirate toward becoming the world's first fully AI-native government by 2027. By automating all government processes, the strategy aims to boost efficiency, enhance service delivery, and stimulate innovation-driven economic growth—reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as a global leader in data-driven, sustainable development.
Mid East Info
20-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Abu Dhabi Chamber appoints new leaders to strengthen ‘Family Business Council' - Middle East Business News and Information
As part of its ongoing efforts to support for family businesses and their continued success across generations, the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ADCCI) has appointed two senior figures to lead the newly established Abu Dhabi Family Business Council (ADFBC). This strategic step reflects the Chamber's vision to strengthen the foundations of family businesses, ensuring their contribution to Abu Dhabi's economic resilience and long-term prosperity. His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADCCI, said: 'Family businesses are the backbone of Abu Dhabi's private sector, contributing significantly to our economic diversification and global competitiveness. As we accelerate our journey toward a smart, sustainable, and innovation-led 'Falcon Economy,' we are deeply committed to empowering family enterprises to scale their impact and seize investment opportunities across local and international markets'. H.E. Al Zaabi added: 'These appointments further reinforce the Abu Dhabi Chamber's role in shaping a future-ready private sector. With their deep-rooted experience and forward-thinking leadership, the Council will enhance the capabilities of family businesses across priority sectors—cementing their role as a driving force in Abu Dhabi's next phase of economic development.' H. E. Khaled Al Fahim has been named Chairman of Abu Dhabi Family Business Council (ADFBC) and H.E. Masood Al Masaood appointed as Vice Chairman. Together, they will guide the Council as it works to empower family businesses to grow, evolve, and contribute more deeply to the national economy. A respected figure in the UAE's business community, H.E. Khaled Al Fahim brings more than 20 years of leadership experience to his new leadership role. He currently serves on the board of ADCCI and is widely recognised for his expertise in corporate governance and board management across the Middle East. Throughout his career, he has helped companies navigate complex restructuring efforts and respond to shifting economic landscapes, particularly in the financial sector. Beyond his work with ADCCI, Al Fahim serves on the boards of Blacklane GmbH and ENBD REIT, and chairs Arady Properties and Ajyad Capital. He is also an Affiliate Partner at the Business Family House. He previously served as CEO of Products & Services at Al Fahim Group and holds a master's in Diplomacy from the University of Westminster and a bachelor's in Business Administration and Management. In his role as Vice Chairman, H.E. Masood Rahma Al Masaood Al Mehairbi will bring both business acumen and entrepreneurial drive. He currently serves as Treasurer of ADCCI and is the Chairman and Founder of the Emirates Angels Investors Association, which champions early-stage innovation. H.E. Al Masaood also plays a leading role in his family's businesses, serving as Vice Chairman of Al Masaood Oil & Gas and as a Board Member of Al Masaood Group. Moreover, his past experience as Deputy Managing Director of Al Masaood Automobiles was key to positioning the company as a top player in Abu Dhabi's automotive sector. Launched by ADCCI in December 2024, the Abu Dhabi Family Business Council supports family businesses navigating generational change, modernising operations, and playing a more active role in the economic diversification. It promotes long-term sustainability by encouraging innovation, job creation, and participation in the knowledge economy. With family enterprises making up a critical part of the private sector, the Council's mission is timely — ensuring legacy businesses are not only preserved, but also well-positioned to seize new opportunities and pass on their success to the next generation. About ADCCI: The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ADCCI) is the leading business support organisation in Abu Dhabi. With a focus on enhancing trade and investment, ADCCI plays a key role in supporting the growth of Abu Dhabi's economy, particularly for SMEs and the private sector. Through various initiatives and partnerships, ADCCI aims to promote a business-friendly environment that facilitates investment and economic development in the emirate.
Al Etihad
10-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Abu Dhabi economic delegation strengthens collaboration with Japanese enterprises
10 May 2025 20:12 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)An Abu Dhabi economic delegation, led by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), concluded a successful visit to Japan, signing agreements with government entities and the private sector to further enhance partnerships in various industries and high-growth Abu Dhabi economic delegation, comprising representatives from more than 80 public sector entities, private enterprises, SMEs, and startups, engaged in high-level meetings with top government officials, key businesses and investors in Japan, exploring collaboration opportunities in across key sectors, including life sciences, carbon-neutral technologies, AI, digital infrastructure, robotics, advanced manufacturing, and financial delegation visited Expo 2025 Osaka and SusHi Tech – Tokyo, and organised the 11th Abu Dhabi Japan Economic Council (ADJEC) meeting, the Abu Dhabi Investment Forum (ADIF), and Abu Dhabi-Japan Business Forum, highlighting cooperation opportunities and the role of Abu Dhabi's Falcon Economy initiatives in accelerating transition towards a smart, diversified, and sustainable development.A total of 12 homegrown startups, supported by Hub71 and Khalifa Fund, participated in SusHi Tech- Tokyo, Asia's premier startup and innovation conference, highlighting Abu Dhabi's tech talent, solutions, and investment opportunities in innovation-driven in partnership with the UAE Embassy in Tokyo, the visit included meetings with Hirofumi Yoshimura, Governor of Osaka; Yuriko Koike, Governor of Tokyo; Nobuhiko Yamaguchi, Vice Governor of Osaka; Ogushi Masaki, State Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry; Shinji, Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI); and Kodaira Nobuyori, President of the Japan Cooperation Center for the Middle East (JCCME). The delegation also met senior officials and executives of the Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Japan Business Federation (Keidanren), Sumitomo Corporation, Cosmo Energy, ITOCHU, and Toshiba. Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADDED, said, "Guided by our leadership's ambitious vision, we are doubling down on our efforts to future-proof the economy and cement Abu Dhabi's stature as a rising economic powerhouse and a global hub for talent, business, investment, and trade.""Our visit to Japan presented a valuable opportunity to further strengthen our longstanding partnership by exploring new avenues of collaboration in various sectors. The agreements signed during this visit reinforce our commitment to deepening partnerships across priority industries and clusters to address giga shifts in the global economy. We remain committed to enhancing cooperation with key economies and trading partners, making human development and sustainability our top priorities to shape a brighter tomorrow," Al Zaabi agreements signed during the visit included a strategic partnership for smart mobility solutions between Emirates Driving Company and Zenmov, a leading company in smart mobility solutions, and an agreement between the Abu Dhabi Chamber and the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) to deepen business relations and create new opportunities for Emirates Foundation's Nema initiative and Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) also inked an agreement to bolster cooperation toward supporting Nema's goal of reducing food loss and waste by 50 per cent by 2030, in line with the UAE's National Food Security Strategy 2051 and U.N. Sustainable Development Goals. Shihab Ahmed Alfaheem, Ambassador of the UAE to Japan, said, "The visit of the Abu Dhabi economic delegation to Japan underscores the strength and strategic depth of the UAE–Japan relationship — one that is rooted in decades of trust and collaboration, and now firmly focused on the future. Japan's global leadership in digital innovation, smart infrastructure, sustainable mobility, and advanced manufacturing aligns closely with Abu Dhabi's economic diversification goals and its ambition to build a resilient, knowledge-based, and climate-conscious economy." "This mission represents a pivotal moment in our bilateral ties, as we prepare to activate transformative frameworks such as the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). CEPA will provide unprecedented access to markets, streamline cross-border investment, and facilitate greater technological exchange between our nations. It is through such frameworks that we will unlock the full potential of UAE–Japan collaboration across sectors — from clean energy and AI to startups and industrial R&D. The UAE Embassy in Tokyo is proud to support this high-level engagement. We remain committed to fostering meaningful partnerships between Emirati and Japanese institutions, and to advancing shared priorities that will shape the next era of sustainable, innovation-led growth," he trade between the UAE and Japan rose 4.8 per cent to Dh182.4 billion (US$49.7 billion) in 2024, compared to Dh174 billion (US$47.4 billion) in 2023, while non-oil trade grew 2.2 per cent over the same period, reflecting growing ties between the two investment in Japan has increased 100 per cent over the past five years, while the country accounts for 80 per cent of Japanese investments in the Middle East. The Abu Dhabi economic delegation included senior officials and executives from government entities, private sector companies, and startups, including the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), ADGM, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), Abu Dhabi Customs, Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ADCCI), ADNOC, KEZAD, Hub71, Abu Dhabi Airports, and major companies from different sectors.
Cision Canada
10-05-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
Abu Dhabi and Japan sign agreements to strengthen partnerships, boost bilateral trade and investments
ABU DHABI, UAE, May 10, 2025 /CNW/ -- An Abu Dhabi economic delegation, led by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), concluded a successful visit to Japan, signing agreements with government entities and the private sector to further enhance partnerships in various industries and high-growth clusters. The Abu Dhabi economic delegation, comprising representatives from more than 80 public sector entities, private enterprises, SMEs, and startups, engaged in high-level meetings with top government officials, key businesses and investors in Japan, exploring collaboration opportunities in across key sectors including life sciences, carbon-neutral technologies, AI, digital infrastructure, robotics, advanced manufacturing, and financial services. The delegation visited Expo 2025 Osaka and SusHi Tech – Tokyo, and organised the 11 th Abu Dhabi Japan Economic Council (ADJEC) meeting, the Abu Dhabi Investment Forum (ADIF) and Abu Dhabi-Japan Business Forum, highlighting cooperation opportunities and the role of Abu Dhabi's 'Falcon Economy' initiatives in accelerating transition towards a smart, diversified, and sustainable development. 12 homegrown startups, supported by Hub71 and Khalifa Fund, participated in SusHi Tech- Tokyo, Asia's premier startup and innovation conference, highlighting Abu Dhabi's tech talent, solutions, and investment opportunities in innovation-driven industries. Organised in partnership with the UAE Embassy in Tokyo, the visit included meetings with H.E. Hirofumi Yoshimura, Governor of Osaka, H.E. Yuriko Koike, Governor of Tokyo, H.E. Nobuhiko Yamaguchi, Vice Governor of Osaka, H.E. Ogushi Masaki, State Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, H.E. Takeuchi Shinji, Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), and H.E. H.E. Kodaira Nobuyori, President of the Japan Cooperation Center for the Middle East (JCCME). The delegation also met senior officials and executives of the Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Japan Business Federation (Keidanren), Sumitomo Corporation, Cosmo Energy, ITOCHU, and Toshiba. His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADDED, said: "Guided by our leadership's ambitious vision, we are doubling down on our efforts to future-proof the economy and cement Abu Dhabi's stature as a rising economic powerhouse and a global hub for talent, business, investment, and trade". "Our visit to Japan presented a valuable opportunity to further strengthen our longstanding partnership by exploring new avenues of collaboration in various sectors. The agreements signed during this visit reinforce our commitment to deepening partnerships across priority industries and clusters to address giga shifts in the global economy. We remain committed to enhancing cooperation with key economies and trading partners, making human development and sustainability our top priorities to shape a brighter tomorrow". The agreements signed during the visit included a strategic partnership for smart mobility solutions between Emirates Driving Company and Zenmov, a leading company in smart mobility solutions, and Abu Dhabi Chamber and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) agreement to deepen business relations and create new opportunities for collaboration. In addition, the Emirates Foundation's Nema initiative and Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) inked an agreement to bolster cooperation to support achieving Nema's goal of reducing food loss and waste by 50 percent by 2030, in line with the UAE's National Food Security Strategy 2051 and U.N. Sustainable Development Goals. His Excellency Shihab Ahmed Alfaheem, Ambassador of the UAE to Japan, said: "The visit of the Abu Dhabi economic delegation to Japan underscores the strength and strategic depth of the UAE–Japan relationship — one that is rooted in decades of trust and collaboration, and now firmly focused on the future. Japan's global leadership in digital innovation, smart infrastructure, sustainable mobility, and advanced manufacturing aligns closely with Abu Dhabi's economic diversification goals and its ambition to build a resilient, knowledge-based, and climate-conscious economy." H.E. Alfaheem added:"This mission represents a pivotal moment in our bilateral ties, as we prepare to activate transformative frameworks such as the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). CEPA will provide unprecedented access to markets, streamline cross-border investment, and facilitate greater technological exchange between our nations. It is through such frameworks that we will unlock the full potential of UAE–Japan collaboration across sectors — from clean energy and AI to startups and industrial R&D. The UAE Embassy in Tokyo is proud to support this high-level engagement. We remain committed to fostering meaningful partnerships between Emirati and Japanese institutions, and to advancing shared priorities that will shape the next era of sustainable, innovation-led growth." Bilateral trade between the UAE and Japan rose 4.8 percent to AED 182.4 billion (USD 49.7 billion) in 2024, compared to AED 174 billion (USD 47.4 billion) in 2023, while non-oil trade grew 2.2 percent over the same period, reflecting growing ties between the two economies. UAE investment in Japan has increased 100% over the past five years, while the country accounts for 80 percent of Japanese investments in the Middle East. The Abu Dhabi economic delegation included senior officials and executives from government entities, private sector's companies, and startups, including the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), ADGM, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), Abu Dhabi Customs, Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ADCCI), ADNOC, KEZAD, Hub71, Abu Dhabi Airports, and major companies from different sectors.
