Dubai’s leadership has unveiled a major economic stimulus to support businesses, enhance market resilience, and ease financial pressures amid regional economic uncertainty.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, has approved a AED 1 billion support package for Dubai’s business sector. The measures are set to be rolled out from April 1, over a period of three to six months.
The announcement was made during a meeting of Dubai’s Executive Council, attended by Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE, and Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai.
Strengthening Resilience Amid Economic Uncertainty
The package is designed to strengthen the economy’s resilience, readiness, and agility as the region navigates economic uncertainty during escalating tensions. Sheikh Hamdan emphasized that Dubai remains committed to supporting individuals, families, and the business community, enabling them to navigate the current phase with confidence and stability.
“Our message is clear: Dubai remains committed to supporting individuals, families and businesses with confidence and stability. With strong institutions and deep community ties, the emirate continues to grow, turning challenges into opportunities and emerging stronger than ever.”
— Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum
Sheikh Hamdan further noted that under the visionary leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the UAE is well-positioned for a better future, built upon a clear vision and sound policy.
He also highlighted that Dubai has earned a reputation for credibility, transparency, and trust among businesses and investors worldwide, and stands ready to meet any challenge through the determination of its people and the strength of its inclusive society.
Dubai’s Strong Economic Performance in 2025
During the meeting, officials reviewed Dubai’s economic performance for 2025. The emirate’s GDP grew by 5.4%, surpassing AED937 billion, underscoring Dubai’s strong momentum and sustained growth trajectory.
Sheikh Hamdan stressed that Dubai’s leadership remains closely attuned to the needs of society, supported by experienced teams capable of managing evolving challenges while sustaining growth. He reaffirmed confidence that Dubai will emerge from the current phase stronger, more competitive, and firmly positioned as a leading global economic hub.
Key Economic Facilitation Measures
The AED 1 billion support package includes a range of measures aimed at easing financial pressures on companies, improving liquidity, and facilitating trade and investment:
- Postponement of selected government fees for three months to ease financial pressures on companies and improve liquidity.
- Three-month postponement of hotel sales fees to support cash flow in the hospitality sector.
- Three-month postponement of the tourism dirham fee to bolster the tourism industry.
- Extension of customs clearance grace periods from 30 to 90 days, with the possibility of further extensions, to facilitate trade for exporters and importers.
- Competitive incentives to streamline the issuance and renewal of residency permits, helping to attract and retain talent.
Three Key Initiatives Approved
In addition to the financial facilitation measures, the Executive Council approved three major initiatives to support long-term economic and social development:
1. Virtual Warehouses Initiative
In its first phase, the initiative will facilitate temporary imports into Dubai to ensure the smooth flow of goods, including artwork. Key features include:
- A new temporary admission declaration exempting imports of artwork from customs duties and financial guarantees.
- Suspension of duties on private artworks for three years.
- Removal of geographical restrictions and simplification of time extensions.
- Introduction of virtual copies of artworks for continuous high-tech tracking.
2. Dubai Empowerment Strategy
This strategy is designed to:
- Raise living standards.
- Strengthen financial stability.
- Promote sustainable employment.
- Foster social cohesion among Emirati families.
The strategy is built on cross-sector partnerships between government, businesses, and community organizations.
3. Health and Safety Strategy for Workers’ Accommodation
A major step towards improving living and working conditions for workers across Dubai. By 2033, the strategy targets:
- 100% access to essential services for workers.
- 100% compliance of workers’ accommodations with health and safety regulations.
The initiative supports the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and aligns with International Labour Organisation (ILO) regulations.
A Commitment to Turning Challenges into Opportunities
Sheikh Hamdan reiterated that Dubai has consistently demonstrated its ability to turn challenges into opportunities. The newly approved package reflects the emirate’s proactive approach to safeguarding economic stability, supporting the business community, and ensuring the well-being of families and workers alike.
With strong institutions, deep community ties, and a clear vision for the future, Dubai continues to reinforce its position as a trusted, competitive, and resilient global economic hub.
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