Starting in April, Dubai will roll out Dh1 billion worth of economic incentives over 3 to 6 months.
Dubai: Dubai’s Executive Council has approved a series of economic and social initiatives designed to support businesses, enhance workforce conditions, and refine economic performance measurement.
The package includes financial relief measures, an updated GDP methodology, trade facilitation programs, and long-term social development strategies. Here’s a breakdown of the initiatives:
5 Key Initiatives Approved in Dubai
1. Dh1 Billion Economic Incentives Package
Starting April 1, 2026, Dubai will roll out Dh1 billion in economic incentives over a three- to six-month period. The package aims to ease financial pressures across sectors by deferring government fees for three months. Hotels can postpone full payment of sales fees and the Tourism Dirham, while customs data grace periods will be extended from 30 to 90 days. The initiative also streamlines residency permit issuance and renewal, making it easier for talent to live and work in the emirate.
2. Dubai GDP Growth and Measurement Update
Dubai reported 6.4% economic growth in Q4 2025, with full-year GDP rising 5.4% to Dh937 billion. Alongside these results, the Executive Council approved a revised methodology for measuring GDP. The updated framework expands economic surveys, broadens statistical coverage, and introduces more comprehensive databases to better capture actual economic activity.
3. Virtual Warehouses Initiative
Overseen by Dubai Customs, the Virtual Warehouses Initiative facilitates temporary imports, including artwork. Under the scheme, artwork is exempt from customs duties and financial guarantees through a new temporary admission declaration, with duties on private artworks suspended for three years. The initiative removes geographical restrictions, simplifies extensions, and uses high-tech tracking via virtual copies. Building on the ‘Art Flow’ pilot project, it streamlines the movement of high-value goods.
4. Dubai Empowerment Strategy
Supervised by the Community Development Authority, the Dubai Empowerment Strategy builds on a programme that has supported 1,200 Emiratis, created over 7,000 jobs, and engaged more than 400 partner entities. The strategy aims to raise living standards, strengthen financial stability, and promote sustainable employment. It follows a dual-track approach supporting both job seekers and home-based entrepreneurs, with partnerships spanning government, private sector, and community organisations.
5. Safety Strategy for Workers’ Accommodation
The Health and Safety Strategy for Workers’ Accommodation sets targets to ensure full access to essential services and compliance with health and safety standards by 2033. Aligned with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and International Labour Organization regulations, the initiative seeks to improve living and working conditions for workers across the emirate while supporting long-term urban development goals.
