UAE creative economy grows as Dubai secures top global FDI rank

The UAE has integrated its cultural and creative sectors into a primary economic driver, according to data released on Friday, 9 October, following a year of record investment and sector-wide expansion. The country’s gaming, publishing, and design industries reported sharp growth, with Dubai maintaining its lead as the top global destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) in creative projects. Dubai secures top global FDI rank Data from 2025 confirms Dubai attracted 754 new creative projects, drawing $3.756 billion in capital investment and generating more than 19,300 jobs. These projects spanned digital services, creative technology, and architecture. To sustain this momentum, the emirate adopted the Dubai Design Sector Strategy 2033, which targets 25,000 student enrollments and the incubation of 100 new projects by 2033. Publishing and gaming revenues surge The publishing sector reached a new peak at the 35th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, which hosted 1,200 exhibitors from 95 countries. On the fair’s opening day, book sales value increased 97% compared to the same period in 2025. Studies from Sharjah Publishing City (SPC) project the UAE publishing market will grow from $260 million to $650 million by 2030. Digital gaming revenues hit AED 2.7 billion as the National Media Authority classified 552 new games, up from 375 in 2024. The cinema sector also reported strong performance, with 2025 box-office revenues exceeding AED 734 million from 14.8 million ticket…