During the first three months of the year, the number of newly issued economic licences in Abu Dhabi climbed by 21%, reflecting growing confidence among entrepreneurs, investors, and companies looking to establish themselves in the capital.
With Abu Dhabi’s economy starting 2026 on a strong note, these new figures show a significant increase in business activity across the emirate and highlight the city’s continued appeal as a destination for business growth.
More Businesses Choosing Abu Dhabi
The rise in new licences points to increasing demand from both local and international businesses seeking opportunities in the emirate, demonstrating that economic expansion is taking place throughout the region rather than being concentrated in a single area of the capital.
It’s been quantified that Al Ain recorded the strongest growth, underlining the increasing role regional centres are currently playing in Abu Dhabi’s wider development strategy
Key Sectors Drive Growth
Proving that a diverse and resilient economy can support a broad range of business models, several industries in the city experienced notable momentum during the quarter, particularly in professional and commercial activities.
Latest figures suggest there is a growing appetite for entrepreneurship in private-sector ventures, while sectors linked to agriculture and food production also continued to expand as sustainability continues to play a pivotal role in the city.
Positive Outlook for the Year Ahead
Despite the geopolitical issues, these latest results reinforce Abu Dhabi’s position as one of the region’s leading business destinations and provide further evidence of the emirate’s economic momentum heading into the remainder of 2026.
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