The UAE has entered the world’s top 10 goods exporters for the first time, rising from 17th to 9th place in five years, based on the latest World Trade Organization data. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said total foreign trade reached Dhs6tn ($1.6tn) last year, representing a 15% year-on-year increase. “Our total foreign trade reached Dhs6tn last year… with a trade surplus of Dhs584bn across goods and services,” Sheikh Mohammed said in a post on X, adding: “Anyone who bets on the UAE is betting on growth, prosperity, and a brighter future.”
Moreover, the figures highlight the country’s expanding role as a global trade hub, with total trade climbing from Dhs3.5tn in 2021 to more than Dhs6tn in 2025. Goods trade accounted for the largest share, reaching around Dhs4.9tn. Additionally, services trade exceeded Dhs1tn for the first time, marking a major step in the diversification strategy. Exports made up more than half of total goods trade. As a result, the UAE strengthened its standing within global supply chains. Furthermore, the trade surplus rose to Dhs584bn in 2025 from Dhs492bn a year earlier, supported by solid external demand and stronger export performance.
Resilience amid global uncertainty
Officials said the gains came despite geopolitical tensions and rising energy prices. However, they pointed to sustained competitiveness and expanding non-oil activity. Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, described the ranking as “a testament to our nation’s competitiveness” and global confidence in the economy. Additionally, he noted that logistics, finance, and technology services continue to grow at strong rates.
The UAE has also retained its position as the leading trading nation in the Middle East and Africa since 2014. Moreover, open economic policies and an expanding network of trade agreements have supported this momentum. Through the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) programme, the country is targeting wider market access and higher export volumes. At the same time, it continues investing in supply chain efficiency and digital trade capabilities. However, the WTO report warned that global trade growth may slow in 2026. Goods trade is projected to expand by 1.9%, down from 4.6% in 2025.
