February 23, 2026
Methodology About Newsletter
WE THE UAE 2031
The Vanderbilt Terminal for the UAE's National Transformation
INDEPENDENT GLOBAL INTELLIGENCE FOR THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
UAE GDP: AED 2.03T ▲ 5.7% | Non-Oil GDP Share: 84.3% ▼ -5.2pp | FDI Inflows: $45.6B ▲ 48.7% | GDP Growth: 4.0% ▲ -0.3pp vs 2023 | Inflation: 1.7% ▼ +0.0pp vs 2023 | Female Participation: 55.1% ▲ +0.6pp vs 2023 | Population: 11.0M ▲ 4.8% | Emiratisation Rate: 12.5% ▲ 2.1pp | Global Competitiveness: #7 ▲ 3 places | Clean Energy Capacity: 7.2 GW ▲ 18.4% | ADX Index: 9,842 ▲ 4.7% | DFM Index: 4,621 ▲ 6.2% | UAE GDP: AED 2.03T ▲ 5.7% | Non-Oil GDP Share: 84.3% ▼ -5.2pp | FDI Inflows: $45.6B ▲ 48.7% | GDP Growth: 4.0% ▲ -0.3pp vs 2023 | Inflation: 1.7% ▼ +0.0pp vs 2023 | Female Participation: 55.1% ▲ +0.6pp vs 2023 | Population: 11.0M ▲ 4.8% | Emiratisation Rate: 12.5% ▲ 2.1pp | Global Competitiveness: #7 ▲ 3 places | Clean Energy Capacity: 7.2 GW ▲ 18.4% | ADX Index: 9,842 ▲ 4.7% | DFM Index: 4,621 ▲ 6.2% |

Definition

Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology (DLT) that records transactions in a decentralized, tamper-resistant chain of cryptographically linked data blocks. Each block contains a set of transactions verified by network participants (nodes) through consensus mechanisms, creating an immutable record that does not require a central authority. Blockchain enables secure peer-to-peer transactions, smart contracts (self-executing agreements), and transparent data sharing across organizations.

UAE Context

The UAE has been one of the most proactive governments globally in adopting blockchain technology. The Dubai Blockchain Strategy, launched in 2016, set the goal of making Dubai the first blockchain-powered government by 2021. Applications span government document verification, customs and trade facilitation, healthcare records, real estate title transfers, and digital identity management. The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has developed a regulatory framework for digital assets and blockchain-based financial services. The Central Bank of the UAE, in partnership with the Saudi Central Bank, explored a joint central bank digital currency (CBDC) through Project Aber, testing cross-border blockchain payment settlement.

Key Data

  • Dubai Blockchain Strategy: Launched 2016, targeting blockchain-powered government
  • Use cases: Document verification, trade finance, real estate, digital identity, CBDC
  • Regulatory frameworks: ADGM digital asset regulations, VARA (Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority)
  • CBDC exploration: Project Aber (UAE-Saudi cross-border digital currency pilot)
  • Enterprise adoption: Government services, supply chain, financial services

Significance for Vision 2031

Blockchain supports the UAE’s Vision 2031 goals for government efficiency, transparency, and digital economic leadership. The technology underpins smart government services, reduces bureaucratic friction, and enables the UAE’s ambition to become a global hub for digital assets and decentralized finance. VARA’s comprehensive regulatory approach positions Dubai as a leading jurisdiction for responsible blockchain innovation.