Google has made a substantial economic impact on the UAE in 2024, contributing over $5.9 billion (AED 21.8 billion) to the economy. This significant contribution is attributed to the widespread adoption of Google’s AI-powered tools and platforms, which have boosted productivity, created jobs, and fostered economic growth across various sectors.
Google’s Economic Footprint in the UAE
Google’s Economic Impact Report, conducted by Public First, highlights the profound influence of Google’s products, including Search, Play, Maps, YouTube, and Google Ads, on the UAE’s economy. The report indicates that Google’s Search and Ads alone generated AED 20.2 billion in economic activity in 2024.
Key Takeaways
- Significant Economic Contribution: Google contributed an estimated AED 21.8 billion (over $5.9 billion) to the UAE economy in 2024.
- Job Creation: The Android and Google Play app ecosystem supported the creation of 30,000 jobs in the UAE in 2024.
- Productivity Boost: Google’s AI tools, such as Gemini, have significantly enhanced productivity for individuals and businesses, with 90% of Gemini users reporting increased productivity.
- Digital Skill Development: Over 430,000 individuals in the UAE have received training in digital and AI skills through Google’s "Maharat Min Google" initiative since 2018.
- Consumer Benefits: Google services provide an average monthly consumer benefit of AED 683 per user in the UAE.
Empowering Individuals and Businesses
Google’s tools are deeply integrated into the daily lives of UAE residents and businesses. Key findings include:
- Daily Life Enhancement:
- 89% of adults found Google Maps and/or Waze very helpful for navigation.
- 90% of adults agreed that contactless mobile payments (GPay/GWallet) simplify their lives.
- Half of all adults surveyed consider Google Search essential for daily activities.
- Business Growth and AI Adoption:
- 91% of UAE businesses utilize at least one AI tool in their workflows.
- 97% of public sector workers reported increased productivity due to Google’s AI-enabled tools.
- 94% of adults use Google Search monthly to compare prices.
Fostering a Vibrant Ecosystem
The report also highlights Google’s role in nurturing the creative and developer ecosystem in the UAE:
- Developer Revenue: The Android App Economy generated AED 455 million in revenue for UAE-based developers in 2024.
- YouTube Growth: Over 600 UAE-based YouTube channels now boast more than 1 million subscribers, marking a 15% year-on-year increase.
- Journalism Training: The Google News Initiative has trained over 20,000 journalists and journalism students in the MENA region, including the UAE.
Methodology
The findings are based on surveys conducted in March 2025 by Public First, involving 1,110 online adults and 389 business leaders in the UAE. The surveys were conducted in both English and Arabic, with results weighted to ensure national representation.
Sources
- Google contributes over $5.9 billion to UAE economy in 2024, Economy Middle East.
- UAE: Google helped create 30,000 jobs in 2024, added Dh21.8 billion to economy, Khaleej Times.
- Here’s how Google contributed Dhs21.8bn to UAE’s economy in 2024, Gulf Business.
- How Google tools helped add Dh21.8 billion to UAE’s economy in 2024, Gulf News.
