Brief

UAE CEOs lead global surge in sector diversification and acquisition plans

A PwC survey finds UAE chief executives far outpacing global peers in diversifying into new industries and planning acquisitions.

By Felo News Desk · Published Thu, 01 Oct 2026 20:49:11 GMT

A PwC 29th Global CEO Survey of 4,454 executives across 95 economies reveals that nearly 70% of CEOs in the United Arab Emirates say their firms have moved into new sectors over the past five years, compared with 42% globally. The same respondents indicate that 74% expect to make at least one significant acquisition in the next three years, versus 41% worldwide. Among UAE CEOs planning deals, 40% anticipate more than one‑fifth of total deal value will come from sectors outside their core business, compared with 16% globally.

What the survey shows

The survey links sector diversification with higher profitability and greater growth confidence among CEOs. Companies earning more revenue from new sectors tend to be more profitable, and their leaders report stronger optimism about future growth.

Implications for investment

According to the analysis, these corporate choices can stimulate broader economic activity by generating demand for suppliers, specialist services and new skills. Sustained investment depends on supportive regulation, infrastructure, finance access, talent and an innovation ecosystem.

Why the UAE stands out

The UAE’s higher diversification and acquisition intent reflects a national push toward economic diversification, creating a fertile environment for capital deployment beyond traditional oil‑related industries.

Key facts

42% of CEOs globally have entered new sectors in the past five years (gulfnews.com)
Nearly 70% of UAE CEOs report diversification into new sectors (gulfnews.com)
74% of UAE CEOs plan a major acquisition within three years, versus 41% globally (gulfnews.com)
40% of UAE CEOs expect over 20% of deal value from non‑core sectors, compared with 16% globally (gulfnews.com)