Abu Dhabi’s economy expanded strongly in the third quarter of 2025. Gross domestic product grew 7.7% year on year to reach a record AED 325.7 billion, according to the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi. Growth remained broad-based. Most importantly, non-oil sectors continued to drive momentum across the emirate.
Non-oil economy contributes more than half of output
The non-oil economy increased 7.6% year on year in Q3. As a result, non-oil activities made up 54% of total GDP and generated AED 175.6 billion in value added.
During the first nine months of 2025, overall GDP rose 5%. Meanwhile, the non-oil economy expanded 6.8%. This steady rise highlights Abu Dhabi’s resilience despite global economic uncertainty.
Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, said the results reflect the strength of the emirate’s Falcon Economy model. He noted that Abu Dhabi has achieved 18 consecutive quarters of growth. He also emphasised that strong policies and a competitive business environment continue to attract capital, talent, and global companies.
Foreign investment and data-driven policy support expansion
Foreign investment reached about AED 1.075 trillion, according to SCAD Director-General Abdulla Gharib Alqemzi. This inflow is expanding productive capacity and strengthening non-oil sectors. It also reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a competitive global economy.
In addition, SCAD continues to deliver timely and reliable statistics. These insights help policymakers track trends, strengthen resilience, and support sustainable development.
Construction, finance and real estate lead sector growth
Several key sectors recorded strong performance in Q3.
Construction grew 13.9% year on year and contributed 9.4% of GDP, with AED 30.5 billion in value added. The rise reflects ongoing infrastructure projects and higher private-sector participation.
Financial and insurance services expanded 8.5% and contributed 6.5% of GDP, reaching AED 21.3 billion. Growth came from stronger banking activity and the increasing presence of international firms.
Real estate rose 13.1% and contributed 3.7% of GDP, with AED 12.1 billion in value added. Demand for residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments remained firm across the emirate.
Logistics, utilities and manufacturing reinforce diversification
Transport and storage increased 13.8% to AED 8.2 billion. Higher cargo volumes, Khalifa Port activity, and logistics expansion supported the sector. Events such as Global Rail 2025 also strengthened Abu Dhabi’s role as a regional hub.
Electricity, gas and water supply grew 16.2% to AED 6.2 billion, representing 1.9% of GDP. Continued investment in energy infrastructure and Barakah Nuclear Plant operations supported this rise.
Manufacturing generated AED 30.5 billion and contributed 9.4% of GDP. The sector grew 2.4% year on year, supported by industrial expansion and localisation initiatives.
Diversification strategy underpins long-term outlook
Abu Dhabi’s latest growth figures confirm the success of its diversification strategy. Non-oil expansion, strong investment inflows, and infrastructure development continue to support sustainable progress. Therefore, the emirate remains well positioned for stable long-term economic growth beyond hydrocarbons.
