The UAE has recorded a major milestone in its economic journey, with non-oil foreign trade surpassing Dh1.728 trillion in the first half of 2025. This marks a remarkable 24% increase compared to the same period in 2024, reflecting the country’s growing status as a global trade hub.

Record-Breaking Non-Oil Exports.

The UAE’s non-oil exports reached Dh369.5 billion in H1 2025 — a historic figure contributing 21.4% to the country’s total non-oil trade. This is the highest contribution to date, up from 18.4% in H1 2024 and 16.4% in 2023. Export volumes have more than doubled since 2022 and tripled since 2019.

CEPA Partners Drive Growth!

The UAE’s Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPA) have played a significant role in this growth. Trade with CEPA partners amounted to Dh85.02 billion, showing a 62.8% increase. India emerged as a leading export destination with Dh51.45 billion in trade value, a 97.6% rise from the same period in 2024. Turkey followed with Dh27.2 billion, up 24.1%.

Strong Growth in Re-Exports and Imports.

Re-exports hit Dh389 billion, growing by 14% year-on-year. Imports of non-oil goods totaled Dh969.3 billion, up 22.5% from H1 2024. This includes a 20.8% rise in imports from the UAE’s top 10 partners and a 24.3% increase with the rest of the world.

Top Global Trade Partners in Focus?

Switzerland, India, Turkey, and Hong Kong–China led as top destinations for UAE exports. Notably, Switzerland saw a 120% increase, while the US recorded a 29% rise and secured the 6th position among the UAE’s top trading partners. France entered the top 10 list for the first time in H1 2025.

The UAE continues to cement its position as a global trade leader — powered by smart partnerships, economic diversification, and a relentless drive for growth.