Al Ain Licences Surge 35% in H1 2026
Al Ain recorded a 35% rise in new business licences in H1 2026, reaching 2,225, with construction and future‑economy industries leading the surge. The growth reflects Abu Dhabi’s strategy to diversify beyond its capital and attract investment across the UAE.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Al Ain, the historic oasis city in Abu Dhabi, has experienced a remarkable uptick in new business licences during the first half of 2026, with the total rising 35% to 2,225. The surge, announced at the second day of the 1st Al Ain Future Business Forum, highlights the city’s growing appeal as a hub for construction, manufacturing, and emerging future‑economy sectors.
What Happened?
During the forum’s second day, the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) released the latest licence statistics. Construction licences alone jumped 178%, with 698 new permits issued, while manufacturing grew by 10% to 121 licences. Sectors tied to the future economy—professional, scientific and technical activities, financial and insurance services, and information & communications technology—showed increases of 263%, 125% and 83% respectively.
Why Al Ain Is Attracting Investors
Under the patronage of Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative for the Al Ain Region, the forum gathered more than 4,800 policymakers, senior business leaders and entrepreneurs. The event’s theme, "Invest, Develop, Thrive," underscored Abu Dhabi’s broader diversification agenda. According to Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, ADDED Undersecretary, Al Ain’s strengths in talent, knowledge, innovation, agriculture, tourism and advanced manufacturing position it as a key player in the emirate’s economic transformation.
Al Mazrouei noted that investors increasingly recognise the region’s opportunities. "The indicators for the first half of this year confirm the attractiveness of the region’s business environment and its future economic potential," he said. He added that Abu Dhabi’s strategy is not merely about increasing the number of businesses but about creating an ecosystem where companies can establish, grow and expand, tapping into opportunities across the UAE and beyond.
Sector‑Specific Growth
- Construction: 698 licences, a 178% increase from the same period last year.
- Manufacturing: 121 licences, up 10% from 110 in H1 2025.
- Professional, Scientific & Technical: 263% rise, reflecting a boom in consulting, R&D and tech‑enabled services.
- Financial & Insurance: 125% growth, signalling confidence in the region’s financial infrastructure.
- Information & Communications Technology: 83% increase, driven by smart city initiatives and digital transformation projects.
Future Outlook and Next Steps
The forum concluded with a call to turn Al Ain’s competitive advantages into tangible investment opportunities, partnerships and initiatives. Stakeholders discussed talent development, advanced manufacturing, agricultural technology, smart mobility, renewable energy and sustainable tourism as key growth areas. The city’s leadership plans to leverage these sectors to attract international investors and expand into global markets.
While the licence data paints a positive picture, questions remain about the sustainability of the growth, the availability of skilled labour, and the integration of new businesses into the regional supply chain. ADDED officials are expected to release follow‑up reports on employment outcomes and investment retention rates in the coming months.
Key facts
- Al Ain’s licences up 35% in H1 2026
- Construction licences surged 178%
- Future‑economy sectors show double‑digit growth
- ADDED focuses on ecosystem creation
- Forum highlights investment and sustainability
Why it matters
Al Ain’s licence growth reflects Abu Dhabi’s broader diversification strategy, positioning the city as a dynamic hub for future‑economy industries and reducing reliance on traditional sectors.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Al Ain Future Business Forum?
A two‑day event organized by ADDED to showcase investment opportunities and foster partnerships in Al Ain.
Which sectors grew the most?
Construction, professional, scientific & technical activities, and financial & insurance services.
What are the next steps for investors?
ADDED will provide guidelines on licensing, incentives and support services to help new businesses establish and expand.
Sources
- [1] gulfnews.com — originally reported as “Al Ain New Business Licences Surge 35% in H1 2026 as Investment and Future Economy Sectors Boom”
