The economy of the UAE continued its upward trajectory during the first quarter of 2026, supported by growth in foreign trade and investment and the resilience of the financial and banking sector, according to official data and international reports.
According to Emirates News Agency (WAM), data from the Central Bank of the UAE showed total banking assets increased by 1.1 per cent to exceed AED5.472 trillion, while bank deposits rose by 1.9pc to reach AED 3.4trn, reflecting strong financial stability and a capital adequacy ratio of 17pc.
Global rating agencies Moody’s and S&P Global Ratings reaffirmed the UAE’s strong sovereign position with a stable outlook, supported by economic resilience and consolidated government net assets estimated at around 184pc of GDP in 2026.
In foreign trade, the UAE continued advancing its strategy to increase non-oil trade to AED4trn by 2031, signing Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPA) during the first quarter with the Philippines, Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Gabon.
The country ranked ninth globally among merchandise exporters, according to the World Trade Organisation.
The business sector recorded notable growth, with the number of registered companies exceeding 1.45 million, alongside continued increases in issued and renewed commercial licences across the emirates.
Mubadala Investment Company reported strong cumulative returns, while Adnoc maintained its position among the world’s 100 most valuable brands.
Financial centres in the UAE also advanced globally, with Dubai rising to seventh place in the Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI). UAE dirham-denominated Treasury bonds recorded strong demand, with bids in March exceeding 4.4 times the issuance size, reflecting confidence in the country’s investment environment and fiscal policies.
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