The UAE’s National Investment Strategy 2031
Charting a Bold Path Toward Global Investment Leadership
In a major strategic shift, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has unveiled its National Investment Strategy 2031, a transformative plan aimed at doubling foreign direct investment inflows, reinforcing economic resilience, and solidifying its position as a global investment destination. Approved on 10 March 2025 during a UAE Cabinet session chaired by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the initiative marks a cornerstone in the country’s long-term economic vision.
The strategy is fully aligned with the national “We the UAE 2031” framework and reflects the leadership’s ambition to move decisively toward a knowledge-based, diversified economy driven by innovation and high-value sectors.
A Vision Anchored in Ambition
At its core, the strategy sets bold, measurable targets for the coming decade. The UAE intends to double its annual FDI inflows from AED112 billion in 2023 to AED240 billion by 2031. In parallel, it seeks to increase the total FDI stock to AED2.2 trillion, up from AED800 billion. Additionally, the plan aims to raise FDI’s share of total investment to 30%, and its contribution to national GDP to 8%—ambitions that reflect both scale and strategic intent.
Strategic Pillars for a New Investment Era
The foundation of the strategy rests on five strategic pillars, each serving as a guidepost for national policy and investor engagement:
, Attracting new investments in high-growth sectors such as advanced manufacturing, green energy, ICT, and financial services. , Supporting existing investments, ensuring their long-term viability through policy continuity and tailored incentives. , Strengthening global partnerships by enhancing bilateral investment relationships, particularly with Asia and Africa. , Enhancing investor relations through coordinated aftercare, regulatory facilitation, and improved service delivery. , Improving national competitiveness by advancing infrastructure, legal frameworks, and talent development.
Rather than working in isolation, these pillars are interconnected, collectively reinforcing the UAE’s appeal as an agile and future ready investment ecosystem.
Turning Vision into Action: Strategic Measures and Programmes
To translate ambition into action, the UAE has launched 12 national programmes and over 30 targeted initiatives. These interventions are designed to support investors across every stage of the investment cycle, from entry to expansion.
Among the most pivotal initiatives is the Financial Sector Development Programme, which aims to modernise the financial ecosystem, strengthen capital markets, and promote fintech innovation. Alongside this, the One-Market Programme will harmonise business regulations across the Emirates, streamlining licensing procedures and reducing administrative friction for businesses operating nationally.
Another notable step is the enhancement of the ‘InvestUAE’ platform a digital gateway offering investors access to real-time data, sectoral insights, and regulatory guidance. It serves as a powerful tool for facilitating informed decision-making and increasing transparency in the investment process.
In parallel, the Partner Countries Gateway Programme seeks to build strategic economic corridors with key global partners. Through trade agreements, joint ventures, and institutional partnerships, this programme will play a vital role in fostering regional integration and foreign capital inflow.
To attract innovative companies and R&D institutions, the Institutional Innovation Attraction Programme is also being rolled out. This initiative targets global startups, incubators, and technology firms, providing a supportive environment for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Legal Reform, Talent, and Special Economic Zones
Alongside the programme and specific actions, the UAE is undertaking broader reforms to enhance its business environment. These include updated commercial and investment laws, expansion of 100% foreign ownership, and the development of modern dispute resolution frameworks. The objective is to create a transparent, investor-friendly legal infrastructure that builds long-term trust.
Human capital is another focal point. The strategy promotes the attraction of skilled international talent through schemes such as the Golden Visa, Green Visa, and startup residency initiatives. These are complemented by efforts to upskill the local workforce, ensuring alignment between education and the needs of a rapidly evolving economy.
The role of free zones and special economic zones remains central. The strategy supports tailored incentives, including tax exemptions, preferential leasing, and streamlined customs processes, particularly for companies operating in strategic sectors such as logistics, clean energy, and technology.
Global Outreach and Economic Diplomacy
The UAE’s investment strategy extends beyond its borders. A renewed focus on international outreach will see the country engage in targeted roadshows, investment forums, and diplomatic dialogues. These efforts are designed to showcase the UAE’s value proposition to sovereign wealth funds, multinational corporations, and institutional investors worldwide.
Notably, the UAE is deepening its economic engagement with Sub Saharan Africa, a region where trade volume has surged by 87% over five years. This reflects a deliberate pivot toward markets that offer long term strategic potential and opportunities for shared growth.
Institutional Coordination and Governance
To ensure coherence and accountability, the government is establishing a network of federal and emirate-level investment offices. These offices will coordinate investment promotion, manage investor relations, and monitor key performance indicators. The goal is to build a unified, responsive, and data-driven investment apparatus capable of adapting to global shifts.
Conclusion: A Strategic Signal to Global Capital
The UAE’s National Investment Strategy 2031 is not simply a roadmap, it is a national commitment to economic transformation. It reflects a shift from passive capital reception to active investment leadership. By leveraging its geographic location, institutional capabilities, and digital infrastructure, the UAE is positioning itself as a vital node in global capital flows.
In an era marked by geopolitical uncertainty and economic recalibration, the UAE’s investment strategy stands out for its clarity, ambition, and integrated execution. For global investors, the message is unmistakable: the UAE is open for business, ready not only to receive capital but to shape the future of investment itself.
