Dubai – The Central Bureau of Statistics announced that the annual inflation rate for the entire republic reached 12.8% during September 2026, compared to 12.7% in August. This increase was propelled by rising prices in several goods and services groups, notably housing, utilities, transport, and education. Data showed the general consumer price index stood at 294.2 points, marking a 1.5% monthly rise.
Housing and Utilities Lead Increases
The housing, water, electricity, gas, and fuel sector surged by 29.6% annually. Actual rent for housing climbed 27.5%, while electricity and other fuels rose 22.6%. Maintenance costs increased by 11.6%, and diverse housing services went up 3.4%. Furniture and home equipment prices also jumped 15.1%, driven by higher costs for garden tools and household furnishings.
Food Prices Rise Modestly
The food and beverages section recorded a 7.9% annual increase. Vegetable prices spiked sharply by 30.9%, while fruits rose 7.2%. Meat and poultry costs grew by 6.2%, and fish and seafood increased by 6.6%. Oil and fat prices went up 5.5%, bread and cereals rose 3.3%, and coffee, tea, and cocoa increased by 9.7%. Sugar products rose slightly by 1.3%, and mineral waters increased by 9%. Dairy, cheese, and egg prices fell by 1.3%.
Transport and Education Costs Surge
Transport and communication costs rose 21.3%, fueled by a 24.4% jump in transport services and an 11.2% increase in vehicle purchases. Communication services climbed 10.4%, with telephone and fax equipment rising 10.6%. Education prices surged 20%, driven by a 22% increase in pre-primary and basic education, and a 17% rise in higher education. Post-secondary vocational education saw a massive 364.5% increase.
Clothing and Leisure Prices Climb
Clothing and footwear prices increased by 12.7%, with dry cleaning and repair services jumping 16.3%. Ready-made clothes rose 13.2%, and shoes increased 10.4%. Culture and recreation costs went up 15.4%, led by organized tours at 18.8% and books at 15.1%. Health care prices rose 5.2%, with hospital services up 18.5%. Restaurant and hotel costs increased 12.8%, while alcohol and tobacco prices rose 6.9%. Diverse goods and services increased by 10.8%, driven by personal luggage and care items.
This story was produced in the newsroom from the disclosed sources named above.
