Abu dhabi: Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, announced that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) achieved historic figures in non-oil foreign trade during the first half of 2025, with a growth rate exceeding 24.5%. The total trade value surpassed AED1.7 trillion, representing a rate 14 times higher than the global average of approximately 1.75%. This reflects the strength of the UAE’s long-term economic strategies and forward-looking policies.
According to Emirates News Agency, Al Zeyoudi provided updates on the UAE’s Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs). The country has concluded 28 agreements, with 10 already in force, and expects to sign between three and six more by the end of the year. Al Zeyoudi attributed the success to the nation’s sustained strategic planning and sound economic governance, congratulating the UAE’s leadership and business community on the unprecedented trade results.
He emphasized the critical role of the UAE’s expanding international partnerships, comprehensive economic system, and advanced logistics infrastructure in establishing the country as a global trade hub. Imports rose by 22.5%, reinforcing the UAE’s status as a major global re-export center. The value of re-exports increased by 14% to approximately AED389 billion, underscoring the UAE’s pivotal role in global supply chains.
Non-oil exports also saw a significant leap to nearly AED370 billion, tripling their value from five years ago. National exports accounted for over 21.4% of total foreign trade, highlighting the effectiveness of the UAE’s diversification strategy and industrial sector development. Al Zeyoudi noted that the National Industrial Strategy has focused on transitioning from re-exporting to direct exporting and targeting specific markets through CEPAs, which has contributed to market diversification and enhanced the global competitiveness of UAE-made products.
Trade with India recorded a growth of nearly 34%, while trade with Trkiye surged by over 40%, showcasing the tangible impact of the UAE’s open economic policy and proactive global market engagement. Al Zeyoudi concluded by stating that the opening of international markets to Emirati producers, exporters, and manufacturers, alongside efforts to attract foreign direct investment, remains a core pillar of the nation’s trade strategy.