The UAE has presented a National Investment Strategy 2031, which aims to achieve a threefold increase in foreign direct investment (FDI) to Dh2.2 trillion ($599 billion) by 2031.
The strategy was unveiled at the UAE Government Annual Meetings 2024 in Abu Dhabi. HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, along with HH Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and chairman of the Presidential Court, were present at the unveiling.
During the event, Sheikh Mohammed emphasised the UAE’s significant rise in FDI in 2023, which saw a 35% increase to Dh112.6 billion despite worldwide economic challenges.
“Clear goals lead to great achievements,” Sheik Mohammed said. “The UAE possesses strong fundamentals to attract investments, companies, businesses and talent. Our objective is to double cumulative foreign direct investment inflows to Dh1.3 billion by 2031.”
Record FDI growth
In 2023, the UAE ranked second globally for new FDI projects, with a 33% increase from 2022. The nation now stands 11th globally in FDI attraction, as reported by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
Since 2015, the UAE’s share of global FDI flows has increased 5.5 times, with annual inflows growing by 17.3%, defying a global decline of 5.3%. Investment Minister Mohamed bin Hassan Al Suwaidi said the UAE’s FDI balance grew by 150%, significantly outpacing the global average growth of 97% over the past decade.
Strategic foundations for growth
The National Investment Strategy 2031 aims to double the UAE’s cumulative FDI and triple the cumulative FDI balance, focusing on five key pillars:
- Emphasising advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, technology and emerging sectors.
- Supporting current projects with business-friendly policies.
- Building international partnerships with foreign governments and global investors.
- Strengthening relationships with investors to encourage repeat investments.
- Enhancing competitiveness through progressive policies, superior infrastructure and skilled talent
Launch of InvestUAE
The UAE introduced the InvestUAE brand, a platform to position the country as a leading global investment hub. InvestUAE will drive promotional efforts through campaigns, international events, and digital marketing targeting global investors.
This initiative aims to bolster the UAE’s international presence, foster strategic partnerships, and drive sustainable economic growth. Aligned with the “We the UAE 2031” vision, the strategy aims to make the UAE a leader in emerging sectors and a hub for talent and entrepreneurship.
In 2023, the UAE ranked second globally after the US in the number of new FDI projects, reaching 1,323, up 33% from 2022.
