UAE unveils National Investment Strategy 2031

The strategy was presented in the presence of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and chairman of the Presidential Court.

As part of this strategic vision, Sheikh Mohammed underscored the UAE’s record-breaking surge in foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2023, which reached Dhs112.6bn — a 35 per cent increase despite global economic challenges.

Sheikh Mohammed stated, “Clear goals lead to great achievements,” adding that this growth reflected the global confidence in the UAE’s economic strategies and business environment.

Record-breaking FDI inflows amid global challenges

The UAE’s recent FDI gains underscore the nation’s growing appeal to global investors. In 2023 alone, the UAE ranked second globally for new FDI projects, with 1,323 new projects — a 33 per cent increase from 2022.

This momentum has seen the UAE rise to 11th place globally in FDI attraction, as the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) reported.

Since 2015, the UAE has increased its share of global FDI flows by 5.5 times, while annual inflows have grown by 17.3 per cent, defying the global trend, which has seen a 5.3 per cent decline.

Over the past decade, the UAE’s cumulative FDI balance has surged by 150 per cent, far outpacing the global growth rate of 97 per cent.

Strategic pillars for transformational growth

The National Investment Strategy 2031 sets ambitious targets to double the UAE’s cumulative FDI to Dhs1.3tn, or 30 per cent of national investment volume, and triple the cumulative FDI balance to Dhs2.2tn by 2031. These goals are anchored in five strategic pillars:

1. The UAE will focus on advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, technology and emerging sectors to sustain high growth and innovation.

2. Investments in current projects will be further supported, building upon the UAE’s robust foundation of business-friendly policies and incentives.

3. Emphasis will be placed on creating long-term international partnerships and encouraging collaboration with foreign governments, multinational corporations and global investors.

4. The UAE aims to foster strong relationships with investors, supporting them throughout their journey and promoting repeat investments.

5. By continually improving its business environment, the UAE plans to ensure its competitiveness through progressive policies, superior infrastructure, and a skilled talent pool.

The strategy draws on the UAE’s distinct advantages, including its status as a global trade hub, world-class infrastructure, advanced financial services, and enviable quality of life.

Each emirate’s unique characteristics will be harnessed to drive private sector growth, with the strategy emphasising research and development as well as innovation to encourage private-sector-led economic expansion.

Minister of Investment Mohamed bin Hassan Al Suwaidi outlined the global investment challenges and the UAE’s approach to addressing them. From geopolitical tensions to a highly competitive investment landscape, the UAE will leverage FDI to meet its national investment requirements, prioritising long-term partnerships, repeat investments, and investor retention.

Launch of InvestUAE

At the meeting, the UAE launched the InvestUAE brand, a unified platform dedicated to positioning the UAE as a premier global investment hub. InvestUAE will lead promotional efforts through awareness campaigns, high-profile international events, and digital marketing, specifically targeting investors worldwide.

By consolidating promotional activities under this new brand, the UAE aims to strengthen its international presence, foster strategic partnerships, and drive sustainable economic growth.

.@HHShkMohd attends unveiling of the National Investment Strategy 2031. Strategy unveiled during a main session of the UAE Government Annual Meetings 2024. pic.twitter.com/R2RUWIeR3B

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) November 5, 2024

 Positioning the UAE as a global investment hub

Aligned with the “We the UAE 2031” vision, the National Investment Strategy 2031 is more than a roadmap for FDI growth; it represents the UAE’s strategic intent to be a leader in emerging sectors, a magnet for top talent, and a fertile ground for Emirati leadership and entrepreneurship.

Sheikh Mohammed’s assertion that the UAE is committed to building on its achievements with “carefully crafted plans, programmes, and initiatives” reflects the country’s holistic approach to sustainable economic growth.

With a proactive strategy built on innovation, diversification, and international collaboration, the UAE is poised to redefine its role on the global investment stage. Through this bold agenda, the UAE seeks to inspire investor confidence, enhance economic resilience, and solidify its reputation as a world-class destination for business, talent, and investment.

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