FNC approves UAE’s largest-ever federal budget for 2026

December 09, 2025 / 4:48 PM

Sharjah 24 – WAM: The Federal National Council (FNC), during its second session of the third ordinary term of the 18th legislative chapter, held at Zayed Hall in Abu Dhabi and chaired by Saqr Ghobash, approved the federal draft law linking the Union General Budget and the budgets of independent federal entities for the fiscal year 2026.

Largest federal budget in UAE history

The session was attended by Mohamed Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs. Ghobash affirmed that the 2026 federal budget—now the largest in the nation’s history—underscores the UAE’s steady trajectory of growth and stability. He noted that the budget reflects strong financial confidence, forward-looking policies, and a balance between sustainability, development, and future preparedness.

A strategic step in economic planning

Al Hussaini highlighted that the Cabinet-approved 2026 budget totals AED92.4 billion, a significant rise from AED71.5 billion in 2025—an increase of nearly 29%. He emphasized that this marks a major qualitative leap and reflects the robustness of the UAE economy and its commitment to sustainable development.

Focus on future-driven financial policies

He added that the 2026 budget embodies advanced financial planning rooted in future foresight. The UAE’s fiscal policies, he said, are increasingly adaptable to global economic shifts and centered on generating added value for the national economy.

Investment in key sectors

Al Hussaini reiterated the prioritization of vital sectors such as education, health, infrastructure, and social development. He noted that investing in people and innovation remains the UAE’s key driver for sustainable and long-term economic growth.