Abu Dhabi GDP Figures and Licence Growth Clarify Economic Indicators and Investment Flows

Abu Dhabi's real GDP reached AED 325.7 billion in Q3 2025, marking a record 7.7% year-on-year growth, according to figures verified through the Statistics Centre Abu Dhabi. The non-oil economy grew 7.6% in the same quarter and accounted for 54% of total GDP.

These readings arrive after 18 consecutive quarters of expansion and coincide with a 21% rise in new economic licences compared with the prior year, while active licences increased 12%. The combination signals continued investor interest in the emirate at a time when global trade routes face uncertainty.

Construction and utilities lead sector gains

Construction expanded 13.9% and utilities posted 16.2% growth in Q3 2025, the two strongest performances among reported sectors. Non-oil activities contributed AED 175.6 billion during the quarter, a share that reflects ongoing diversification away from hydrocarbons.

New licence data cover the full emirate and include permits issued across multiple free zones and mainland authorities. The 12% increase in active licences indicates that more businesses are moving from registration to operations rather than remaining in planning stages.

Credit rating backs expectations of further strength

S&P Global reaffirmed Abu Dhabi's AA/A-1+ sovereign credit rating in May 2025. The agency cited expectations of continued economic strength as the basis for the rating. Moody's and Fitch also maintained stable outlooks on the emirate's debt.

Officials at the Department of Economic Development track these indicators through quarterly releases that feed into federal reporting. The sustained licence growth suggests capital continues to enter sectors that support the non-oil share of GDP. Observers will watch the next quarterly release for signs that the 7.7% pace holds into the final months of the year.

This article is general information only and is not personal financial or investment advice. Consider your own circumstances and seek licensed professional advice before making financial decisions.