Google contributed AED 21.8 billion to the UAE’s economy in 2024, according to a new report by UK-based research consultancy Public First, highlighting the growing influence of the tech giant’s AI-powered tools across business, government, and daily life.
The Google Economic Impact Report, released today, reveals the wide-ranging role of platforms such as Google Search, Ads, YouTube, Maps, Play, and the Gemini AI assistant in supporting digital transformation and economic development in the UAE.
The report found that Google’s Search and Ads products alone generated AED 20.2 billion in economic activity last year, helping thousands of local businesses expand their customer base and 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. “Through strategic investments, local partnerships, and AI-powered tools, we’re delivering real economic value and empowering people and businesses throughout the country.”
Boosting Skills and Supporting Jobs
Since 2018, more than 430,000 people in the UAE have been trained in digital and AI skills through Google’s Maharat Min Google initiative. The Android and Google Play ecosystem also played a notable role, supporting around 30,000 jobs and generating AED 455 million in revenue for local app developers.
Enhancing Everyday Life
The report also measured the impact of Google services on individual productivity and daily routines. UAE consumers receive an estimated AED 683 in value per month from Google services. Gemini, Google’s AI assistant, has seen strong uptake, with 63% of adults reporting usage — 90% of whom said it helped improve productivity. Notably, 71% of users found Gemini easier to use in Arabic compared to other AI platforms.
Google Maps and Waze were widely appreciated, with 89% of adults finding them useful for navigation. Meanwhile, 90% of users said Google’s mobile payment platforms, such as GPay and GWallet, made daily transactions more convenient.
Digital Engagement and AI Integration in Business
The report indicates rapid AI adoption in the UAE business community. A staggering 91% of companies reported using at least one AI tool in their workflows, while 97% of public sector respondents said Google’s AI-powered products had improved their productivity.
Digital habits also showed deep engagement: 94% of users turn to Google Search monthly to compare prices, 86% rely on Google reviews before visiting businesses, and 73% of 18–24-year-olds use Search to browse or shop online every week.
Creative Economy and Journalism Support
YouTube’s creator ecosystem is thriving, with over 600 UAE-based channels reaching more than one million subscribers — a 15% increase from the previous year. Additionally, more than 20,000 journalists and journalism students in the MENA region, including the UAE, have received training through the Google News Initiative.
The findings are based on surveys conducted in March 2025 with over 1,100 UAE-based adults and nearly 400 business leaders, with results weighted for national representation.
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