Abu Dhabi Economy Growth Q2 2025: Non-Oil Sector Hits Record High, Led By Manufacturing And Finance

Abu Dhabi’s real GDP rose to Dh306.3 billion in the second quarter of 2025, marking a 3.8% year-on-year increase, according to the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi (SCAD). The non-oil economy surged 6.6% from Q2 2024 to reach a record Dh174.1 billion, accounting for 56.8% of the total GDP for the first time in a second quarter, highlighting the emirate’s successful economic diversification.

In the first half of 2025, Abu Dhabi’s real GDP grew 3.63% to Dh597.4 billion, with the non-oil sector expanding 6.37% to Dh337.6 billion. Key non-oil industries driving growth included manufacturing, construction, finance, real estate, and ICT.

Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, credited the expansion to a long-term strategy focused on diversification, competitiveness, and innovation. The manufacturing sector hit a record high supported by the Abu Dhabi Industrial Strategy, while construction surged nearly 10% due to major projects and innovations such as the AI-powered Binaa platform.

Finance and insurance grew over 10%, with Abu Dhabi Global Market reporting strong asset gains and increased foreign investment. Real estate recorded 10% growth, driven by population and foreign interest, while ICT reached its highest-ever value due to the emirate’s Dh13 billion Digital Strategy.

Other growing sectors included wholesale and retail trade, professional services, transportation, utilities, and cultural industries, reflecting a balanced and resilient economy.

SCAD Director-General Abdulla Gharib Alqemzi noted that strong Q1 and Q2 results demonstrate economic resilience and the success of data-driven policymaking supporting Abu Dhabi’s ambition to be the world’s first AI-native government by 2027.