Google’s AI-powered products are transforming productivity, job creation, and digital capabilities across the country
Google contributed an estimated AED21.8 billion (over $5.9 billion) to the UAE economy in 2024, according to a new Economic Impact Report commissioned by independent consultancy Public First. The report highlights how Google’s AI-driven tools and platforms are delivering measurable value for individuals, businesses, and communities throughout the UAE—fueling growth, enhancing productivity, and enabling a more digitally empowered workforce.
The study is based on surveys of 1,110 online adults and 389 business leaders in the UAE, conducted in both Arabic and English in March 2025. The findings were adjusted using Iterative Proportional Fitting to ensure nationally representative results.
Driving Productivity and AI Adoption
- 63% of UAE adults reported using Gemini, Google’s AI assistant, in 2024.
- 90% of Gemini users said it helped them be more productive, while 71% found it easier to use in Arabic than other AI tools.
- Google’s products generated an average of AED683 in monthly consumer benefit per person.
- 50% of adults in the UAE consider Google Search essential to their daily routine.
- 89% of users found Google Maps and Waze helpful in preventing them from getting lost.
- 90% of adults said contactless payments through Google Pay or Wallet simplified their lives.
Enabling Businesses and Innovation
- 91% of UAE businesses used at least one AI tool in their daily operations.
- 94% of adults use Google Search monthly to compare prices.
- 86% check Google reviews before visiting a business.
- 73% of people aged 18–24 use Search weekly for online shopping.
- 97% of public sector employees say Google’s AI tools improve their productivity.
Empowering Communities
- Since 2018, over 430,000 individuals have received digital and AI training in the UAE through Google’s “Maharat Min Google” initiative.
- The Android and Google Play ecosystem supported the creation of 30,000+ jobs in 2024.
- The Android App Economy generated AED455 million in revenue for UAE-based developers.
- The UAE is home to 600+ YouTube channels with over 1M subscribers, a 15% YoY increase.
- The Google News Initiative trained more than 20,000 journalists and students across MENA, including the UAE.
A Message from Google
“We’re incredibly proud to be a partner in the UAE’s boundless ambitions,” said Anthony Nakache, Managing Director for Google MENA.
“The report reflects our investment in accelerating the country’s journey toward a diversified, AI-powered economy. Through strategic investments, local partnerships, and our AI-powered tools, we’re bringing substantial economic value and empowering individuals, businesses, and communities.”
Research Methodology
Public First conducted the study on behalf of Google. All data was collected through national surveys and modeled using international benchmarks, third-party data, and economic multipliers to estimate total impact.
