Abu Dhabi’s economy expanded by 3.4% year-over-year in the first quarter of 2025, according to data released by the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi (SCAD). The emirate’s GDP reached AED 291 billion, driven primarily by strong growth in the non-oil sector.
For the first time in a Q1 period, the non-oil economy contributed more than half of the total GDP, accounting for 56.2% at AED 163.6 billion. The oil sector contributed 43.8%, or AED 127.4 billion.
Key Sector Growth
• Manufacturing: AED 28.5 billion, up 5% YoY
• Construction: AED 27.5 billion, up 10.2% YoY
• Finance & Insurance: AED 19.6 billion, up 9.1% YoY
Financial activity also strengthened through the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), which saw a 43% rise in registered financial institutions and a 33% increase in assets under management. The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) reported a market capitalization exceeding AED 2.93 trillion, with foreign net investment increasing by 151%.
Regional Outlook
Looking ahead, the IMF forecasts Abu Dhabi’s GDP to grow by 4.2% in 2025, outpacing Dubai at 3.3%. Independent research firms also expect the UAE to be the GCC’s fastest-growing economy next year, supported by resilient non-oil activity and easing inflation.
Strategic Significance
The latest figures underscore the success of Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification strategy, with non-oil industries, including manufacturing, construction, and finance, increasingly driving growth. Officials say this structural shift strengthens resilience, boosts food and energy security, and positions the emirate as a leading financial hub in the region.
