Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum during the Executive Council meeting on March 30, 2026. DUBAI MEDIA OFFICE

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has approved a series of major economic and social initiatives, including Dh1 billion in incentives aimed at supporting businesses and residents in Dubai. The decisions were made during a meeting of The Executive Council of Dubai on Monday (March 30), covering key projects designed to boost economic growth, improve quality of life and strengthen workforce protections. The package includes Dh1 billion in economic incentives to be rolled out over three to six months starting April 1. Measures include deferring various government fees for three months, allowing hotels to postpone 100 percent of sales fees and Tourism Dirham payments, and extending customs data grace periods from 30 to 90 days. The initiative also aims to simplify the issuing and renewal of residency permits to make it easier for skilled professionals to live and work in Dubai. Sheikh Hamdan said the measures reflect the UAE’s long-term vision and resilience. “Under the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, and with the determination of its people and an open, inclusive society, the UAE is well-positioned for a better future,” he said. He added that Dubai has built a global reputation for “credibility, transparency, and trust among businesses and investors worldwide,” and is ready to meet future challenges. The Council also reviewed Dubai’s economic performance, reporting 6.4 percent growth in the fourth quarter of 2025 and 5.4 percent growth for the full year, with GDP reaching Dh937 billion. An updated methodology for measuring GDP was approved to improve accuracy and better reflect economic activity across sectors. Among the initiatives approved was the Virtual Warehouses Initiative, overseen by Dubai Customs, which will allow temporary imports of goods, including high-value artworks, with exemptions from customs duties and financial guarantees. The programme builds on the "Art Flow" pilot and is expected to strengthen Dubai’s position as a global hub for art and trade. The Council also approved the Dubai Empowerment Strategy, led by the Community Development Authority, aimed at improving financial stability, employment opportunities and social cohesion among Emirati families. The strategy builds on previous programmes that have supported 1,200 young Emiratis and created over 7,000 job opportunities. Another key approval was the Health and Safety Strategy for Workers’ Accommodation, which aims to ensure full compliance with safety standards and universal access to essential services by 2033. Officials said the initiative aligns with international labour standards and supports long-term urban development goals under the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. CAM/Expat Media
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