The UAE is witnessing a historic surge in non-oil foreign trade, placing the nation on track to achieve its AED4 trillion trade goal by 2027—four years ahead of schedule. The impressive performance underscores the country’s strategic diversification efforts and global trade ambitions.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, confirmed that the UAE’s non-oil foreign trade reached AED835 billion ($227.5 billion) in the first quarter of 2025, marking an 18.6% year-on-year increase. Non-oil exports alone soared by 40.7%, reaching AED177.3 billion ($48.3 billion), the highest share of total trade in UAE history at over 21%.
“The UAE’s economic growth is unprecedented, with non-oil sectors contributing 75.5% to a GDP of AED1.77 trillion ($482 billion) in 2024,” said Sheikh Mohammed. “This success reflects the dedication of thousands working toward the country’s global economic goals under the leadership of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.”
Key trading partners saw significant increases: trade with India rose 31%, Saudi Arabia more than doubled at 127%, and both China and Turkiye saw solid growth. Re-exports reached AED189.1 billion ($51.5 billion), up 6%, while imports hit AED468.6 billion ($127.6 billion), a 17.2% annual increase.
With these gains, the UAE cements its position as a leading global trade hub, driving forward with confidence toward an even brighter economic future.
