UAE Achieves Historic Surge in Non-Oil Foreign Trade in First Half of 2025
The UAE has achieved a record-breaking performance in its non-oil foreign trade during the first half of 2025, posting a growth rate exceeding 24.5%. The total trade value soared above AED1.7 trillion, marking a rate 14 times higher than the global average of approximately 1.75%. This extraordinary accomplishment underscores the strength of the UAE’s long-term economic strategies and forward-looking policies.
Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, emphasized the depth of this achievement. He reported: “The UAE has concluded 28 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs), with 10 already in force, and between three and six more expected to be signed before the end of the year.” Dr Al Zeyoudi attributed this success to the country’s resolved strategic planning and sound economic governance.
Dr Al Zeyoudi extended congratulations to the UAE’s leadership and business community for achieving these unprecedented trade results. He highlighted the essential role of the UAE’s international partnerships, comprehensive economic system, and advanced logistics infrastructure in fortifying the country’s standing as a global trade hub.
Imports rose by 22.5%, strengthening the country’s reputation as a major international re-export centre. The re-export value itself increased by 14% to roughly AED389 billion, further underlining the UAE’s pivotal role in global supply chains.
Non-oil exports experienced a substantial leap, reaching nearly AED370 billion, which is three times the value compared to five years ago. National exports accounted for more than 21.4% of total foreign trade, demonstrating the effectiveness of the UAE’s diversification strategy and the advancement of its industrial sector.
Discussing the National Industrial Strategy, Dr Al Zeyoudi noted its success in shifting from primarily re-exporting to direct exporting and targeting new markets through CEPAs. This transformation has led to market diversification and a notable boost in the global competitiveness of UAE-made products.
Trade relations with India saw a growth of nearly 34%, while trade with Türkiye surged by over 40%, showcasing the real-world impact of the UAE’s open economic policies and proactive global engagement.
Dr Al Zeyoudi concluded that the opening of international markets to Emirati producers, exporters, and manufacturers, along with efforts to attract foreign direct investment, remains a core pillar of the country’s trade strategy.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
