From AI-driven tools and digital skills training to supporting 30,000 jobs, Google’s expansive economic impact reinforces its role in the UAE’s transformation into a knowledge-based, tech-powered economy.
Google’s Economic Footprint in the UAE Reaches Dhs21.8bn in 2024
Google has emerged as a vital catalyst in the UAE’s digital transformation, contributing a substantial Dhs21.8 billion to the national economy in 2024, according to a new Google Economic Impact Report by UK-based consultancy Public First. The report reveals how Google’s products—Search, Ads, Maps, YouTube, Play Store, and its AI assistant Gemini—are enabling economic value, fostering job creation, and advancing productivity across the country.
According to the report, Google Search and Ads alone generated Dhs20.2 billion in economic activity, helping thousands of local businesses connect with customers and scale their reach effectively.
“We’re incredibly proud to be a partner in the UAE’s boundless ambitions,” said Anthony Nakache, Managing Director of Google MENA. “Our investments in AI-powered tools, strategic partnerships, and talent development are driving real value for individuals, businesses, and communities.”
Empowering Digital Talent and Developers
As the UAE accelerates toward a knowledge-based economy, Google’s Maharat Min Google initiative has trained over 430,000 individuals in digital and AI skills since 2018. The effort aligns closely with the country’s vision of building a future-ready workforce rooted in innovation and tech fluency.
Google’s Android and Play ecosystems also contributed Dhs455 million in revenue for local developers and supported around 30,000 jobs, bolstering the UAE’s growing app economy and developer landscape.
AI, Productivity, and Everyday Impact
Google’s AI ecosystem is increasingly embedded in the UAE’s digital culture. The report shows:
- 63% of adults in the UAE have used Gemini, Google’s AI assistant
- 90% of Gemini users say it boosts their productivity
- 71% find Gemini easier to use in Arabic than other chatbots
Meanwhile, Public First estimates that Google services provide an average monthly consumer benefit of Dhs683 per user, enhancing daily life through tools such as GPay, GWallet, Google Maps, and Waze, used by 89% of adults for navigation and 90% for mobile payments.
Half of UAE adults surveyed described Google Search as essential to their daily routines.
UAE Businesses Lean Into AI-Driven Efficiency
AI adoption is thriving in the business ecosystem:
- 91% of UAE companies use at least one AI tool
- 97% of public sector respondents credit Google’s AI tools for boosting productivity
- 94% of consumers use Google Search monthly to compare prices
- 86% consult Google Reviews before visiting a business
- 73% of 18–24-year-olds shop online weekly via Search
Boosting the Creative Economy and Journalism
The UAE’s creator and media communities are also reaping rewards from Google’s platforms. More than 600 YouTube channels in the UAE now boast over one million subscribers—a 15% year-on-year growth. Additionally, over 20,000 journalists and journalism students across the MENA region have been trained via the Google News Initiative, equipping the next generation of storytellers with digital tools and insights.
A Strategic Tech Partner in National Growth
This report underscores how Google’s growing ecosystem aligns with the UAE’s ambitious digital and economic goals. With a commitment to AI integration, digital skills, and local partnerships, Google is helping shape a sustainable, inclusive tech economy that empowers all layers of society.
The findings are based on surveys conducted in March 2025 with 1,110 UAE adults and 389 business leaders, with responses weighted for national representation.
In a year where innovation and resilience have become more important than ever, Google’s role in the UAE’s digital evolution is not just impactful—it’s transformative.
