The UAE’s non-oil foreign trade reached AED 2.945 trillion in the first nine months of 2026, up 10.1% year on year and close to the AED 3 trillion mark for the first time.
Record non-oil exports of AED 706 billion, up 21.6%, drove the growth, alongside imports of AED 1.661 trillion, up 11.5%, and re-exports of AED 578 billion. Non-oil exports now make up 24.0% of total non-oil trade, up from 21.7% a year earlier, after monthly exports passed AED 100 billion for the first time in September.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, said exports to the UAE’s top ten trading partners grew 31% and described the country as a central hub for international trade in a year of economic and political challenges.
Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, said the result reflects the strength of the UAE’s trade policies. In the third quarter, non-oil trade reached AED 1.025 trillion, up 7.1% year on year. Quarterly non-oil exports have now stayed above AED 200 billion for five consecutive quarters.
Switzerland, Hong Kong and India were the leading export destinations, while gold, jewellery and tobacco products topped the list of exported goods. Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Oman led for re-exports. China was the largest source of imports, followed by India and the United States.
Trade with the 23 countries covered by the 19 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements in force as of October 20 reached about AED 510.8 billion. Al Zeyoudi said these agreements open new markets, ease the movement of goods and lower trade barriers.
News Source: WAM
