In a decisive move to future-proof its economy, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has greenlit a sweeping package of initiatives aimed at empowering citizens, accelerating trade, refining economic metrics, and strengthening labor protections.
The approvals, issued during an Executive Council meeting chaired by Sheikh Hamdan, span five major pillars: a AED 1 billion economic stimulus, updated GDP measurement methodologies, a virtual warehousing scheme, a national empowerment framework, and a long-term worker safety strategy.
These directives align with the national vision of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai.
A Benchmark for Global Cities
Sheikh Hamdan noted that the UAE has set a new international standard for urban excellence driven by strategic foresight. “Dubai has built a reputation rooted in credibility, transparency, and trust among global investors and enterprises. Our inclusive society and determined people make us ready for any challenge,” he said, adding that the approved measures offer tangible support to families, individuals, and the private sector.
The meeting was also attended by His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, and His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai.
AED 1 Billion Liquidity Drive for Businesses & Households
Starting April 1, 2026, a AED 1 billion economic incentive package will be deployed over three to six months to relieve financial pressure across sectors. Key provisions include:
- A three-month deferral of select government fees, including 100% of sales fees and the Tourism Dirham for hotels, enhancing hospitality cash flow.
- Extension of customs data grace periods from 30 to 90 days, with options for further renewal while maintaining full tax compliance.
- Streamlined residency permit issuance and renewals to lower barriers for global talent seeking to live and work in Dubai.
GDP Growth Confirmed & Measurement Overhauled
The Council endorsed Dubai’s Q4 2025 economic performance, which posted 6.4% growth, contributing to a full-year GDP of AED 937 billion—a 5.4% annual expansion. Alongside these results, authorities approved a comprehensive revision to the emirate’s GDP measurement methodology. The updated system expands economic survey coverage, enhances statistical representation of all commercial activities, and deploys richer databases for more accurate real-time performance tracking.
Virtual Warehouses Initiative: A Customs Breakthrough for High-Value Goods
Under the oversight of Dubai Customs, the newly approved Virtual Warehouses Initiative launches with a focus on temporary imports—notably artwork. Phase one introduces a temporary admission declaration that waives customs duties and financial guarantees on art imports, suspends duties on private artworks for three years, removes geographic restrictions, simplifies extension requests, and deploys virtual copies for high-tech tracking. Building on the ‘Art Flow’ pilot, this scheme offers significant financial and procedural advantages, reinforcing Dubai’s standing as a premier global hub for high-net-worth individuals and the art trade.
Dubai Empowerment Strategy: From Job Seekers to Home Entrepreneurs
Supervised by the Community Development Authority, the Dubai Empowerment Strategy builds on the Dubai Social Agenda 33 and the earlier Dubai Empowerment Programme—which has already supported 1,200 young Emiratis, created over 7,000 jobs, and partnered with 400+ entities. The new strategy adopts a dual-track model, offering tailored support for job seekers and home-based entrepreneurs. It aims to raise living standards, enhance financial resilience, drive sustainable employment, and foster social cohesion among Emirati families through cross-sector partnerships between government, business, and community organizations.
Health & Safety Strategy for Worker Accommodations (to 2033)
In a major step for labor welfare, the Council approved a Health and Safety Strategy for Workers’ Accommodations. Targeting 100% access to essential services and full regulatory compliance by 2033, the strategy aligns with Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan and International Labour Organization (ILO) standards. It underscores Dubai’s commitment to ethical workforce management and sustainable urban expansion.
