The Ministry of Finance (MoF) has launched the Federal Budget Yearbook for 2026 under the theme “Investing in People Securing the Future,” providing a human-centred vision that places individuals at the core of every development decision, regardless of the pace of external developments and changes, underscoring the strength of the UAE’s financial system and its ability to continue supporting development efficiently. The launch of the yearbook comes as part of the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening financial transparency and inclusivity, showcasing the integration between financial planning and national strategic objectives. It further highlights government spending tracks that place people at the forefront, supporting the development of a cohesive society and a prosperous future in the UAE. Strengthening financial sustainability His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, said the UAE Federal Government Budget 2026 will accelerate efforts to realise the leadership’s vision of building a sustainable future that prioritises investing in people, enhancing quality of life, and reinforcing long-term financial sustainability. Sheikh Maktoum noted that the budget demonstrates the federal government’s commitment to directing resources efficiently and flexibly towards sectors with a direct impact on society, supporting the country’s readiness for future developments and strengthening the national economy’s ability to respond effectively to various changes. Effective financial planning His Highness said the process of preparing the UAE’s federal government budget combines efficiency and effectiveness and has continued to evolve to keep pace with economic changes. This has helped strengthen the alignment between national priorities and government spending, improve financial planning, increase efficiency in the use of public funds, support the growth of federal revenues and expand the use of artificial intelligence in managing the budget, reinforcing long-term financial sustainability. He added: “The Federal Budget2026 sets a clear direction for how government resources are allocated to support society. This is reflected in the budget structure and spending priorities, which aim to create a lasting developmental impact, improve quality of life and strengthen long-term social and economic stability.” The federal budget continues to maintain fiscal balance for the second consecutive year, with revenues and expenditures both reaching AED 92.4 billion, compared to AED 71.5 billion in the 2025 budget, marking an increase of nearly 29%. This balance reflects the strength and resilience of the national economy and its capacity to sustain financial sustainability. The spending priorities of the 2026 federal budget also reflect a clear commitment to supporting vital sectors that directly impact the wellbeing of the community. The budget allocates AED 30.8 billion to the public services sector, and AED 16.9 billion to the education sector, reaffirming the priority placed on investing in human capital and developing national capabilities. In addition, AED 5.7 billion has been allocated to the healthcare sector to support the development of health services and enhance quality of life, alongside AED 3.7 billion for the housing sector to promote family and community stability. The budget also allocates AED 1.4 billion to economic affairs to support economic growth and stimulate various development activities, in addition to AED 33.9 billion allocated to other sectors. Integrated financial vision For his part, H.E. Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, said the Federal Budget Yearbook 2026 sets out a comprehensive and future-focused financial vision built on medium- and long-term planning. He said the government is increasingly linking spending to performance and outcomes, ensuring that resources are directed where they have the greatest impact and are used as efficiently as possible. Al Hussaini explained that financial sustainability is a strategic approach that focuses primarily on improving financial planning, managing spending more carefully, diversifying sources of revenue, strengthening public debt management and expanding partnerships between the public and private sectors. These efforts, he said, are designed to support continued growth and maintain fiscal balance and strengthen the national economy’s ability to preserve its stability and resilience. He added: “The Ministry will continue to develop the federal budget preparation and implementation system by adopting global best financial practices and strengthening integration with federal entities,” adding, “We will spare no effort to achieve national targets and enhance the UAE’s competitiveness at both the regional and global levels.” H.E. noted that the annual book presents the budget in a clear and engaging format, highlights major achievements and outlines priorities and opportunities for future development. He also affirmed that the report adopts a modern financial narrative that moves beyond presenting figures to demonstrating real impact. It clearly explains budget concepts, helping the public better understand its developmental role. Development impact The 2026 FederalBudget Yearbook provides a comprehensive overview of the federal budget framework, as well as the methodologies used in its preparation and ongoing development, in line with the UAE Centennial 2071 and the country’s long-term national priorities. It highlights the integration of financial planning with the country’s strategic priorities, reinforcing the role of the budget as a key tool in driving sustainable growth. The report also outlines a shift in how the budget is designed and communicated, moving beyond a focus on inputs and figures towards measuring outcomes and developmental impact. This framework not only supports more efficient allocation of resources but also ensures that government spending delivers tangible results for society. A competitive economic model The book further highlights key achievements and future targets of national initiatives in priority sectors, including education, healthcare, government services and the national economy, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen communities and drive a competitive, resilient and sustainable economy, while enhancing the resilience of the UAE economy and its ability to sustain steady growth. It also highlights the UAE’s proactive approach to keeping up with future transformation, its commitment to sustainable development, and its continued support for entrepreneurship and national talent. At the same time, it emphasises the importance of maintaining a flexible and attractive investment environment that strengthens economic partnerships at both the local and global levels. The report also tracks the growth of the federal budget and its spending priorities, with a clear focus on investing in people as the foundation of long-term sustainability. Global leadership in digital transformation The yearbook also sheds light on the role of digital transformation and the integration of artificial intelligence in supporting decision-making, improving operational efficiency and reducing bureaucracy. It also aligns with global trends in the digital transformation of government services, enhancing user experience, delivering positive financial outcomes through more efficient public spending, and meeting people’s needs at the highest level. The annual report’s release is part of the federal government’s commitment to transparency and to strengthening trust among the community and its partners in the country’s financial policies. It is set to support the UAE’s long-term development path while reinforcing its position as a leading global example in modern and effective public financial management.
