The United Arab Emirates continues to strengthen its position as one of the world’s leading international trade hubs, with Dubai playing a central role as the region’s key logistics and commercial center. In 2024, the UAE’s total foreign trade volume reached AED 5.23 trillion, representing a 49% increase compared to 2021, which confirms sustained growth in trade activity and the country’s role as a global economic center.
Of this total, merchandise exports amounted to approximately AED 2.22 trillion, while exports of services reached AED 646.6 billion, including a significant share of digital services. The trade surplus for the year exceeded AED 490 billion, reinforcing the country’s economic resilience and competitiveness on the global stage.
The share of non-oil exports continues to increase. In 2024, non-oil exports reached approximately AED 561.2 billion, growing by around 27% compared to the previous year. This reflects the diversification of the export structure and a strategic shift toward higher-value products and services.
Dubai plays a pivotal role in developing the UAE’s export and re-export model, serving as the country’s primary logistics and distribution hub. A substantial portion of trade flows passes through the emirate’s infrastructure, including the re-export of goods to markets across the Gulf region, Asia, Africa, and Europe. Jebel Ali Port, free economic zones such as the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), and integration with DP World’s global network form the backbone of Dubai’s re-export strategy and enable its function as both a regional and international trade hub.
In addition, the UAE is actively expanding its trade relations with international partners. For example, following the entry into force of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with India, total bilateral trade between the two countries reached approximately USD 100 billion over the period from 2022 to 2025, highlighting deepening economic integration and growing mutual trade volumes.
These indicators demonstrate that exports and re-exports remain key drivers of economic growth, while Dubai and the UAE as a whole continue to strengthen their reputation as an international trade and logistics center with strong and sustainable potential for expanding foreign economic activity.
