The UAE’s non-oil foreign trade surged to Dh1.728 trillion ($470.3 billion) in the first half of 2025, marking a 24% increase compared to H1 2024, as announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This historic growth underscores the UAE’s rapid transformation into a global trade hub, driven by strategic Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) and booming exports.
Quick Summary
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Record Trade Value
Dh1.728 trillion (H1 2025) – 24% YoY growth.
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Non-Oil Exports Boom
Dh369.5 billion (↑ 44.7% YoY), now 21.4% of total trade.
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Top Export Markets
Switzerland, India, Turkey, Hong Kong-China.
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CEPA Impact
10 active agreements covering 3 billion consumers, boosting trade with India (↑ 97.6%), Turkey (↑ 24.1%).
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Sheikh Mohammed’s Statement
“We continue our path as a major trading nation and a reliable global partner.”
UAE Non-Oil Foreign Trade Hits Record Dh1.7 Trillion in H1 2025 – 24% Growth
Detailed Analysis
Historic Growth in Non-Oil Trade
The UAE’s non-oil foreign trade has skyrocketed, with H1 2025 figures doubling H1 2021 and tripling pre-pandemic (2019) levels. Key highlights
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24% growth vs. H1 2024.
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59.5% surge vs. H1 2022.
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Re-exports: Dh389 billion (↑ 14% YoY).
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Imports: Dh969.3 billion (↑ 22.5% YoY).
Non-Oil Exports Break Records
For the first time in UAE history, non-oil exports contributed 21.4% of total trade, up from 18.4% in 2024.
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Dh369.5 billion in exports (↑ 44.7% YoY).
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80% growth vs. H1 2023.
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210% surge compared to H1 2019.
CEPA Agreements: The Game Changer
The UAE’s 28 CEPA deals (10 active) have unlocked access to 3 billion consumers, fueling trade with
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India: Dh51.45 billion (↑ 97.6%).
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Turkey: Dh27.2 billion (↑ 24.1%).
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Switzerland: 120% growth.
Top Trading Partners & Key Trends
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Fastest-Growing Markets: Thailand, Switzerland, India.
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Saudi Arabia: 21.3% growth.
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USA: 29% increase (6th largest partner).
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France: Entered top 10 for the first time.
FAQs
Q: What’s driving UAE’s trade growth?
A: CEPA agreements, diversification, and booming non-oil exports (especially to India, Switzerland, and Turkey).
Q: How significant is the 24% growth?
A: It’s unprecedented—doubling 2021 levels and far exceeding global averages.
Q: Which sectors are leading exports?
A: Data suggests gold, aluminum, machinery, and tech products are key contributors.
Wrapping Up
The UAE’s record-breaking Dh1.7 trillion in non-oil trade underscores its rapid rise as a global economic powerhouse.
With 24% growth in just six months—fueled by strategic CEPA deals and booming exports—the nation is cementing its role as a leading trade hub.
As diversification efforts accelerate, the UAE is not just reducing its reliance on oil but reshaping the future of international commerce.
