His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, has endorsed a comprehensive AED 1 billion economic incentives package designed to strengthen business liquidity, reduce operational costs and reinforce the emirate’s global competitiveness.

The package was approved at a meeting of the Dubai Executive Council, chaired by Sheikh Hamdan, and came into effect on April 1, 2026.

It will remain active for an initial period of three to six months as part of five targeted strategic initiatives to provide immediate relief to the private sector and residents while supporting long-term economic resilience.

Key components of the stimulus include a three-month deferral of selected government fees, notably hotel sales fees and the Tourism Dirham, to ease pressure on the hospitality and tourism sectors.

The customs data submission grace period has also been extended from 30 to 90 days, granting greater flexibility to traders and logistics operators.

Additional measures focus on streamlining residency permit procedures to accelerate talent acquisition and retention, alongside the rollout of complementary programmes, including the Virtual Warehouses Initiative and the Dubai Empowerment Strategy, and the implementation of upgraded health and safety standards for workers’ accommodation.

In his official directives, Sheikh Hamdan underscored Dubai’s commitment to its business community and citizens.

“We remain steadfast in our support for our partners in the private sector and our people,” he stated, attributing the emirate’s continued strength to the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai and Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and the overarching guidance of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The incentives arrive at a pivotal moment, helping businesses navigate short-term economic headwinds while positioning Dubai to capitalise on its established advantages in trade, tourism and innovation.

Analysts describe the move as a proactive measure that reinforces investor confidence and aligns with the emirate’s broader digital transformation and service-enhancement agenda.

Implementation is being coordinated across relevant government departments, with regular performance reviews scheduled to ensure effectiveness.

The initiative forms part of Dubai’s ongoing contributions to the UAE’s “Year of the Family” programme, reflecting the royal family’s sustained focus on citizen welfare and economic stability.

Official updates and full details are available through the Dubai Executive Council and Sheikh Hamdan’s verified channels.