Non-oil sectors drive 6.1% growth, highlighting the capital’s economic diversification strategy as GDP surges to AED291 billion in the first quarter.
Abu Dhabi’s economy continued its robust performance in the first quarter of 2025, with the emirate’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) reaching AED291 billion (US$79.2 billion), marking a 3.4% increase compared to the same period last year. This growth, reported by the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi (SCAD), reflects the success of the emirate’s strategic focus on economic diversification and long-term resilience.
A key driver of this expansion was the non-oil sector, which surged by 6.1% year-on-year, contributing significantly to the emirate’s overall growth. This reflects Abu Dhabi’s sustained efforts to reduce dependence on hydrocarbons by investing in industries such as manufacturing, tourism, financial services, real estate, and advanced technologies.
“This strong Q1 performance demonstrates the effectiveness of Abu Dhabi’s forward-thinking economic policies and the emirate’s ability to create a competitive, diversified economy,” SCAD stated in its quarterly update.
The oil sector, while still a fundamental component of Abu Dhabi’s economy, saw moderate growth, underscoring the balanced nature of the current economic trajectory. With the global energy landscape undergoing rapid transformation, Abu Dhabi’s non-oil growth signals a successful adaptation to global trends and a strong commitment to sustainable development.
Business confidence remains high in the capital, with major infrastructure projects, regulatory reforms, and foreign investment initiatives further catalyzing growth. Initiatives under the Abu Dhabi Industrial Strategy and the “Projects of the 50” continue to attract global players, supporting job creation and innovation across sectors.
As Abu Dhabi continues to assert its position as a regional economic powerhouse, the emirate’s Q1 2025 GDP results are a clear indication of its resilience, strategic vision, and readiness to lead in a dynamic global economy.
