General Budget Cmte discusses draft budget for Fiscal Year 2026

Attendance and key figures

The meeting was attended by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, and His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. Key participants included Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, and Khaled Mohamed Balama Al Tameemi, Governor of the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE), along with other representatives of the Presidential Court and Ministry of Finance.

Discussions on budget draft and updates

The committee discussed several important topics, including the draft budget for fiscal year 2026, as part of the 2022–2026 budget plan. This followed the updates from the General Budget Committee’s 13th meeting in July 2025, along with relevant decisions and recommendations.

Coordination and preparation for 2026 budget

After coordination with federal entities by the Ministry of Finance, the committee directed that necessary procedures be completed for preparing the 2026 federal budget. This will be submitted to the Cabinet as per the provisions of Federal Decree-Law No. (26) of 2019 on Public Finance.

Review of financial data and projections

The committee also reviewed the federal government’s cash flows for fiscal year 2025, including actual revenue collection as of August 2025. It discussed the revenue forecasts for 2026, factoring in updated tax legislation and projections from federal entities.

Financial position and strategic projects

The committee addressed the federal government’s financial position for fiscal year 2025, highlighting significant progress across various sectors. It also considered requests for funding strategic projects and issued necessary directives. Additionally, the committee reviewed updates on capital and development projects completed in 2025.

Budget as a pillar of sustainable development

The federal budget plays a crucial role in the UAE’s sustainable development, supporting the nation’s development and social needs. Designed with flexibility, it is continuously reviewed to keep pace with evolving changes and directives.

Ministry of finance’s efforts recognised

The committee commended the Ministry of Finance for its efforts in updating the 2026 draft budget and its effective coordination with federal entities.

Budget approval and outlook

The Cabinet has approved the general budget for fiscal year 2025, estimating revenues and expenditures at AED 71.5 billion each, reflecting the balance between financial resources and public expenditures.