The UAE has once again demonstrated its remarkable economic momentum, with foreign trade reaching an impressive AED 5.23 trillion in 2024. This marks a 49% increase from AED 3.5 trillion in 2021, reinforcing the country’s position as a key global trade and logistics hub. This achievement is backed by strategic economic policies, strong global partnerships, and continuous investment in infrastructure and digital transformation.
Trade Surplus Soars Above AED 490 Billion
The UAE’s trade surplus exceeded AED 490 billion, a testament to the country’s growing export capabilities and balanced trade dynamics. This surplus reflects the strength and resilience of the UAE economy amid global uncertainties and evolving trade landscapes.
Digital Services at the Heart of Service Export Growth
The UAE’s service exports totaled AED 650 billion in 2024, with digital services alone contributing AED 191 billion, accounting for 30% of all service-related trade. This shift highlights the UAE’s ongoing digital transformation and investment in innovation-led sectors such as fintech, AI, and digital infrastructure. As more countries pivot toward digital economies, the UAE has emerged as a front-runner in exporting digital services globally.
Goods Exports Reach AED 2.2 Trillion with Steady Growth
Goods exports hit AED 2.2 trillion, showing a 6% year-on-year growth. This is a strong indicator of the UAE’s industrial capability and its well-established logistics network, which connects trade routes between Asia, Africa, and Europe. The nation’s free zones, industrial parks, and advanced port infrastructure continue to support this upward trajectory.
Dominating Regional Trade with 41% Share of Middle East Exports
The UAE now contributes 41% of the total commodity exports across the Middle East, making it the region’s leading trade center. This dominance is driven by strategic location, policy reforms, and a focus on becoming a gateway between East and West.
Open Market Strategy Powers Growth
Central to the UAE’s trade success is its long-standing policy of openness and economic liberalization. By promoting the free movement of capital, goods, and people, the country has positioned itself as a preferred partner for global businesses. Its strong legal framework, transparent business environment, and favorable tax regimes continue to attract international investors and trading partners.
Climbing Global Trade Rankings
The UAE ranked 11th globally for merchandise exports and 13th for service exports in 2024. This reflects the country’s competitiveness and influence on the global economic stage. The UAE’s consistent climb in global trade rankings is the result of national-level coordination, diversified export sectors, and strong public-private partnerships.
The Road Ahead: Sustained Growth and Innovation
The UAE is not resting on its laurels. With continued investments in logistics, artificial intelligence, blockchain in trade, and green technologies, the country is preparing to further cement its role as a global trade leader. Through flexible policies, openness to innovation, and global collaboration, the UAE is expected to continue enhancing its role in international trade and economic development.
