Dubai has launched a AED1bn ($272m) economic support package for businesses operating in the emirate. Approved by Crown Prince of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, the measures roll out from 1 April 2026.

The stimulus targets immediate liquidity through a broad deferral of government fees over the next three to six months. In the vital hospitality sector, hotels can now postpone 100 per cent of sales and tourism fees for 90 days. This financial breathing room is designed to enhance cash flow and maintain the sector's post-2025 momentum.

Trade and logistics are also set for a boost via extended customs grace periods. Dubai Customs will move its data grace period from 30 to 90 days for compliant firms. Simultaneously, the government is streamlining residency permit processes. The goal is to lower the barrier for global talent entering the emirate's labour market.

Further structural reforms include the Virtual Warehouses Initiative to digitise the movement of temporary imports. The Council also approved the Dubai Empowerment Strategy to raise living standards for Emirati families. This is paired with a new Health and Safety Strategy for Workers’ Accommodations to improve conditions across the industrial and construction workforce.

In a statement, Sheikh Hamdan emphasised that the package aims to turn global challenges into local opportunities. He added that the Executive Council remains focused on supporting families and businesses with stability.

Dubai’s economic support package is the latest economic support package to be announced in the UAE during the Iran War. Earlier in March, The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) approved a comprehensive Financial Institution Resilience Package designed to reinforce the stability of the banking sector as the UAE economy deals with extraordinary market conditions resulting from the conflict.