The World Bank: The UAE Will Lead the Gulf in Economic Growth in 2025!

The World Bank has projected that the UAE will lead the Gulf in economic growth next year, forecasting a 4.8% expansion in 2025 — the highest in the GCC region. This growth reflects the UAE’s strong balance between oil and non-oil sectors, accelerated investments in digital transformation, AI adoption, and economic diversification.
Key Highlights from the World Bank Report
1️⃣ UAE Set to Outperform All Gulf Economies
- Forecasted 4.8% growth in 2025
- Strong and broad-based expansion in both oil and non-oil sectors
- Long-term economic resilience driven by policy reforms and innovation
2️⃣ Digital Transformation Is Reshaping the GCC
- GCC countries now enjoy over 90% 5G coverage
- Affordable high-speed internet fuelling a digital-first economy
- Rapid acceleration in AI adoption and smart technologies
3️⃣ AI Readiness Is Becoming a Global Competitive Advantage
- Large investments in data centers and high-performance computing
- UAE and Saudi Arabia leading regionally and increasingly recognized globally
- Government embracing generative AI applications
4️⃣ A Supportive Ecosystem for Growth
- Strong financing and infrastructure for innovation and tech projects
- Increasing AI-related skills and workforce competencies
- World Bank emphasizes: digital transformation is not a luxury — it is a necessity
5️⃣ Women in STEM Strengthening Gulf Competitiveness
- Women’s participation in STEM fields exceeds the global average
- Enhancing GCC digital competitiveness and future workforce capabilities
6️⃣ SMEs Will Play a Major Role
- Report recommends:
- Supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in adopting AI
- Implementing training programs to upskill workforces
- Closing labour-market gaps to fully benefit from diversification
What This Means for the UAE Real Estate Market
The UAE’s leading economic position directly strengthens real estate demand:
🏙 More businesses and global companies expanding into the UAE
➡ Drives demand for commercial properties and office spaces
✈ Increase in relocation, long-term residency, and tech talent arrivals
➡ Boosts demand for residential properties and rental yields
🤖 AI and digital investments driving tech hubs and smart city projects
➡ Creates opportunities for future-ready, high-value real estate assets
With economic confidence, global investment interest, and world-leading infrastructure – the UAE real estate market remains one of the most attractive and resilient investment opportunities in the world.
Final Thoughts
The UAE’s rise as a global tech, business, and investment hub is no longer a vision — it is happening now. With World Bank projections confirming the UAE will lead the Gulf in growth, the future looks exceptionally strong for investors, entrepreneurs, and real estate buyers.
📩 Interested in knowing how this growth benefits your next property investment?
Comment “Real Estate!”