UAE has awarded an estimated $31b in projects in 2025 so far, overtaking Saudi’s $20.6b
The United Arab Emirates is on track to surpass Saudi Arabia in the total value of awarded construction projects this year as the kingdom refocuses its priorities on some of its planned developments.
With an estimated $31 billion in announced projects so far in 2025, the UAE outpaced Saudi Arabia’s $20.6 billion, according to data provided by Middle East intelligence platform MEED. Should the UAE maintain this momentum, it will be the first time it overtakes its neighbour since 2018.
The re-direction comes as the kingdom reconsiders certain projects due to funding pressures, market shifts and rising costs. Moreover, the 2029 Asian Winter Games and the 2034 FIFA World Cup that will be hosted by the Gulf nation are expected to come at a significant cost.
With over $2.3 trillion in active projects across both countries, the UAE is pressing ahead with infrastructure and real estate projects despite global slowdown due to factors including economic headwinds, labour shortages, outdated processes, and increasing external pressures like trade tariffs and market uncertainty. Oil prices, which remain too low to balance many Gulf budgets, may also be contributing, adding pressure to regional finances.
The kingdom has awarded just $4 billion for giga projects in 2025 that are designed to back Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 diversification agenda. That compares with $24 billion last year. Across 2024, the kingdom granted a record $152 billion in construction contracts.
To be sure, the current lead held by the UAE may shift in the second half as Saudi Arabia is expected to grant awards for stadiums related to the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Saudi Arabia also still holds the strongest pipeline of planned developments, with around $1.6 trillion worth of projects announced but not yet awarded, MEED said.
Access MEED report here.
