Dubai Launches AED 18.3B Development Plan
The Government of Dubai has approved an ambitious AED 18.3 billion (approximately US$4.99 billion) investment plan to enhance employment opportunities, education, and overall quality of life across the emirate.
The wide-ranging programme aims to create 15,000 new jobs, develop 800 parks and open spaces, and add 120,000 new school seats in affordable institutions. The initiative spans key sectors such as aviation, education, sports, finance, and preventive healthcare. Under the new Public Parks and Greenery Strategy, Dubai plans to build 310 new parks, upgrade 322 existing ones, and develop 120 additional open spaces, alongside enhancements to over 70 road-rights-of-way. The initiative seeks to triple tree cover, expand green areas to 187 km² (11 m² per person), and ensure 80% of residents live within a five-minute walk of a neighborhood park. The city also aims to achieve 95 million annual park visits by 2040, using 100% recycled water for irrigation.
The Aviation Talent 33 initiative will further cement Dubai’s role as a global aviation hub. The programme is expected to generate over 15,000 jobs, launch 4,000 training programmes, and form more than 30 strategic partnerships with aviation firms. This aligns with Dubai’s wider vision to attract AED 650 billion in investments and increase Emirati employment within the private sector.
Aligned with the Dubai Education Strategy 2033, the government will establish around 60 new affordable schools by 2033, creating 120,000 additional student seats. Private-sector operators will receive incentives including reduced government fees and lower land-leasing costs, supporting Dubai’s goal of ranking among the top 10 global cities for education quality.
The Sports Sector Strategic Plan 2033 outlines 19 programmes and 75 initiatives across 17 sports disciplines, aimed at encouraging youth participation and attracting international sporting events.
In the financial sector, the newly established Financial Restructuring and Insolvency Court will facilitate debt settlements and ensure business continuity, strengthening Dubai’s standing as one of the world’s top three financial centres.
The plan also includes a major preventive healthcare expansion, focusing on early detection and vaccination coverage, to further improve residents’ well-being and public health standards.
