UAE Approves National Investment Strategy to Boost FDI

The nation introduces 12 strategic programmes and 30 initiatives aimed at more than doubling its FDI

The UAE has launched an ambitious National Investment Strategy aimed at more than doubling its foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows over the next six years. Chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, the UAE Cabinet meeting at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi approved key economic and social initiatives to drive growth and enhance the nation’s global standing.

Key Investment Goals and Sectors

Sheikh Mohammed said, “Today, I chaired a UAE Cabinet meeting at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, we approved our National Investment Strategy for the next six years. Our goal is to increase annual foreign investment inflows from AED112bn ($30.5bn) in 2023 to AED240bn ($65.4bn) by 2031 and grow the UAE’s total foreign investment stock from AED800bn ($218bn) to AED2.2tn ($600bn) over the coming years.”

He added, “This strategy will focus on key sectors, including industry, logistics, financial services, renewable energy, and information technology. The UAE continues to develop its economy, expand global markets, attract investments, and create the most business-friendly environment in the world.”

To achieve these targets, the UAE has introduced 12 strategic programmes and 30 initiatives, including The Financial Sector Development Programme, The One-Market Programme, The Institutional Innovation Attraction Programme, The Partner Countries Gateway Programme, InvestUAE and The Investment Offices Promotion Incubator.

Expanding Trade and Digital Economy

Sheikh Mohammed stated, “We also reviewed the progress of the UAE’s strategic partnerships with African nations, where 95 per cent of previously approved initiatives have been successfully implemented. As a result, our total trade volume with Sub-Saharan Africa has grown from AED126.7bn ($34.5bn) in 2019 to AED235bn ($64bn) over five years—an 87 per cent increase. The UAE will continue to build new economic bridges across the world and reinforce its role as a global trade hub, connecting markets worldwide.”

“We also reviewed the National Digital Economy Strategy, which aims to increase the digital economy’s contribution to GDP from 9.7 per cent to 19.4 per cent. We remain committed to strengthening the UAE’s position in the global digital economy through ambitious national initiatives and projects over the next six years.”

Healthcare and Social Initiatives

The government approved a National Policy for Combating Health Risks to strengthen emergency preparedness and response. Sheikh Mohammed stated, “Continuous readiness for any health emergency is an essential part of strengthening health security and ensuring the highest quality of life in the UAE.”

Additionally, the Executive Regulations for Organ and Human Tissue Donation and Transplantation were ratified, ensuring better access to life-saving treatments. “The UAE now has more than 13 licensed transplant centres, with a 30 per cent increase in transplant procedures. Kidney, liver, heart, lung, and pancreas transplants are now being performed in the UAE, and we will continue to develop the healthcare sector to provide world-class medical services for all.”
Social welfare initiatives saw a 29% budget increase, reaching AED3.5bn ($953m), with a 37% rise in beneficiaries. “Additionally, 3,200 beneficiaries have been successfully integrated into the workforce, transforming from recipients of financial aid into active contributors to the nation’s progress.”

Government and Global Engagement

Sheikh Mohammed said: “In the government affairs, we also approved the Remote Work System from Outside the Country in the Federal Government, enabling the UAE to tap into global expertise and specialized talent to execute projects and studies for federal entities.”

The Cabinet also approved 28 international agreements, including economic partnership agreements with Malaysia, New Zealand, and Kenya, as well as security, logistics, and government cooperation agreements with several nations. “The teams continue their work, our growth trajectory accelerates, and every day, we witness our nation’s future becoming greater, stronger, and more prosperous—driven by the dedication of thousands of exceptional teams across all sectors.”

The UAE’s National Investment Strategy 2031 underscores its commitment to strengthening its global investment hub status, driving economic growth, and fostering innovation across multiple sectors.