Dubai’s economy maintained its positive performance in May, with continued expansion across non-oil private sector activities. This marks a new indication of the strength of economic activity and the resilience of the emirate’s business environment, as Dubai continues to strengthen its position as a global hub for trade, services, and investment.

The latest Purchasing Managers’ Index survey, issued by S&P Global, showed that Dubai’s headline index rose to 52.0 points in May, compared with 51.6 points in April. The index remained above the 50-point mark that separates growth from contraction, confirming the continued improvement in the performance of companies operating in the non-oil private sector.

This increase reflects sustained momentum in the local market, as companies maintained good levels of production and new orders. It also points to the confidence of the business community in Dubai’s ability to continue growing in the coming period, supported by a flexible economic system, advanced infrastructure, and a strategic commercial location.

At the UAE level, the seasonally adjusted Purchasing Managers’ Index rose to 52.6 points in May, compared with 52.1 points in April, allowing the non-oil private sector to continue recording positive performance that supports the country’s broader economic growth.

Production in the UAE recorded its fastest pace of growth in three months, while the new orders index rose slightly to 52.6 points. This reflects the continued flow of new business and improved operational activity among companies. Firms were also able to complete a larger share of accumulated orders, pointing to stronger operational efficiency and a greater ability to meet customer needs.

These results come as an extension of the strong performance achieved by the UAE economy last year, when non-oil GDP grew by 6.8% in 2025, exceeding the overall economic growth rate of 6.2%. This confirms the success of economic diversification policies and the growing contribution of non-oil sectors to sustainable growth.

For Dubai, the continued presence of the index in positive territory reflects the strength of the emirate’s economy and its ability to maintain business activity, supported by its leading position in trade, tourism, services, and investment. The survey also showed that companies remain optimistic about the year ahead, amid expectations of stronger demand and stable economic performance.