Google has unveiled its Economic Impact Report for the United Arab Emirates, revealing that its suite of digital products and AI-powered tools contributed an estimated AED 21.8 billion to the country’s economy in 2024.
The report, conducted by UK-based research firm Public First, provides a data-driven assessment of how Google’s platforms — including Search, YouTube, Google Maps, Google Ads, and Play — supported individuals, businesses, developers, and content creators in the UAE. Based on polling, economic modelling, and case studies, the report quantifies the tech giant’s growing role in enabling digital transformation across the Emirates.
“We’re incredibly proud to be a partner in the UAE’s boundless ambitions,” said Anthony Nakache, Managing Director for Google MENA. “Through local partnerships and AI-driven tools, we are driving real economic value and helping communities, individuals, and businesses thrive.”
Everyday Impact on People
The study found that Google services generated AED 683 in monthly value per consumer in the UAE by simplifying tasks and enhancing productivity. Notably:
- 63% of UAE adults used Gemini, Google’s AI assistant, in 2024.
- 90% reported it boosted productivity, while 71% said Gemini was easier to use in Arabic compared to other AI chatbots.
- 50% of adults consider Google Search “essential” to daily life.
- 89% relied on Google Maps or Waze to avoid getting lost.
- 90% agreed that mobile payments via GPay or GWallet made life easier.
Empowering Business and Economic Growth
UAE businesses are rapidly integrating AI, with 91% reporting the use of at least one AI tool. The report shows how Google’s platforms are also key to customer engagement and commercial success:
- 80% of UAE adults used Google Maps or Waze to find local businesses monthly.
- 94% used Google Search to compare prices monthly.
- 86% checked Google reviews before visiting venues or businesses.
- Among younger users (aged 18–24), 73% used Google Search weekly to shop or browse products.
- 97% of public sector workers said AI tools from Google improved their productivity.
The Android and Google Play app ecosystem supported 30,000 jobs in the UAE in 2024, while the Maharat Min Google skilling initiative trained over 430,000 people since 2018 in digital and AI skills.
Creative and Developer Communities Benefit
In terms of content and software innovation, the report found:
- UAE-based developers earned AED 455 million from the Android app economy in 2024.
- 600+ UAE YouTube channels surpassed 1 million subscribers, up 15% year-on-year.
- Over 20,000 journalists and journalism students in the MENA region received training via the Google News Initiative.
The report reflects Google’s growing investment in digital capacity-building and its alignment with the UAE’s strategy to become a global AI and innovation hub.
