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Google’s Impact on the UAE’s Economy
In an astounding revelation, Google has contributed a staggering Dhs21.8 billion to the UAE’s economy in 2024, as outlined in a recent report by the UK-based research consultancy, Public First.
The Role of AI in Economic Transformation
This noteworthy contribution reflects the ever-increasing role of Google’s robust products—fueled by advanced artificial intelligence (AI)—in driving digital transformation, facilitating business growth, and enhancing individual productivity throughout the region.
Key Findings from the Google Economic Impact Report
Launched recently, the Google Economic Impact Report details the influence of various Google tools—including Google Search, Ads, Play, Maps, YouTube, and the Gemini AI assistant—on individuals, businesses, and communities in the UAE. Notably, Google’s Search and Ads alone generated a jaw-dropping Dhs20.2 billion in economic activity, empowering thousands of local businesses to connect with customers and expand their operations.
“We’re incredibly proud to be a partner in the UAE’s boundless ambitions,” said Anthony Nakache, Managing Director for Google in the Middle East and North Africa. “This report showcases our commitment to accelerating the UAE’s journey towards a diversified, AI-powered economy.”
Driving Training and Skills Development
The report highlights a significant achievement: over 430,000 individuals across the UAE have received training in digital and AI skills since 2018 through Google’s Maharat Min Google initiative. These initiatives align seamlessly with the UAE’s vision of becoming a knowledge-based economy. Furthermore, the Android and Google Play ecosystem has stimulated crucial growth, supporting around 30,000 jobs and generating Dhs455 million in revenue for local developers.
Enhancing Daily Life and Consumer Productivity
According to Public First, the average consumer in the UAE enjoys an estimated Dhs683 monthly benefit from Google services. In fact, 63 percent of adults reported using Gemini, Google’s AI assistant, with 90 percent affirming that it boosted their productivity. Notably, 71 percent indicated that Gemini is more user-friendly in Arabic compared to other AI chatbots.
Other popular tools like Google Maps and Waze also play a vital role, with 89 percent of adults finding them useful for navigation. Additionally, a resounding 90 percent of users reported that mobile payment platforms such as GPay and GWallet have enhanced their everyday convenience.
A remarkable 50 percent of survey respondents expressed that Google Search is essential for their daily routines.
Boosting Business Productivity and AI Adoption
The landscape is clear: AI usage among businesses in the UAE is escalating, with 91 percent of companies utilizing at least one AI tool within their workflows. An impressive 97 percent of public sector respondents acknowledged that Google’s AI-powered tools have elevated their productivity.
Digital Engagement Trends
Consumer behavior reflects heightened digital engagement, as revealed by the survey:
- 94 percent use Google Search monthly to compare prices.
- 86 percent consult Google reviews prior to visiting businesses.
- 80 percent rely on Google Maps or Waze for locating local venues.
- 73 percent of 18–24-year-olds browse or shop online via Search weekly.
Nurturing the Creative and Developer Ecosystem
Google’s platforms are also nurturing the UAE’s creative economy. Over 600 UAE-based YouTube channels have surpassed one million subscribers, marking a 15 percent increase year-on-year. Moreover, over 20,000 journalists and journalism students across the MENA region, including the UAE, have received training via the Google News Initiative.
Methodology Behind the Report
The findings are based on comprehensive surveys conducted in March 2025, encompassing 1,110 UAE-based online adults and 389 business leaders, carried out in both English and Arabic, with results weighted for national representation.
As Google’s influence continues to flourish in the UAE, its commitment to harnessing AI for economic growth reaffirms the tech giant’s pivotal role in shaping a prosperous, digitally-driven future.
