The UAE economy is poised to expand faster than previously thought, with the country’s GDP on track to grow by 5% this year, outperforming the global average, according to Standard Chartered.

The bank has revised up the UAE’s GDP growth forecast for 2026 to 5% from the previous 4%, based on current momentum, including massive trade volumes, bank liquidity and non-oil strength.

"The UAE remains a bright spot on the global map, with the nation expected to remain on track to deliver growth at potential for two consecutive years in 2026," said Rola Abu Manneh, CEO of UAE, Middle East & Pakistan at Standard Chartered.

The UAE’s GDP growth is expected to exceed those of China, forecast at 4.6%, the United States (2.3%) and the Euro-area (1.1%).

Its position as a hub for trade is expected to strengthen due to shifts in global supply chains.

According to SC Global Research, the UAE’s foreign trade is likely to reach $1 trillion this year, while its non-oil sector is poised to jump by 4.5% next year on the back of favourable demographics and a strong property market.

(Writing by Cleofe Maceda; editing by Brinda Darasha)