The UAE has cemented its place among the world's major international investors, with outward foreign direct investment flows hitting US$63.353 billion in 2025 and a portfolio that spans six continents and sectors from energy and ports to artificial intelligence and healthcare.
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) data shows the country's outward FDI stock stood at US$402.729 billion at the end of 2025, up from US$55.560 billion in 2010. Global FDI flows reached US$1.6 trillion last year, according to UNCTAD's World Investment Report 2026.
North America accounts for 44% of Mubadala Investment Company's portfolio, which includes more than 80 direct investments and US$170 billion in assets under management. Europe represents 15% and Asia-Pacific 13%, with Latin America and the Caribbean at 1%. The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority follows a similarly broad strategy, allocating 45% to 60% of its long-term portfolio to North America and 15% to 30% to Europe.
Ports and logistics offer a clear example of this reach. DP World operates in more than 80 countries through over 590 business units, while AD Ports Group had offices in more than 50 countries and a commercial presence in 158 by the end of 2025.
Fahad Al Gergawi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Trade, said that the approach rests on economic openness and stronger partnerships. He said the UAE has become Africa's largest investor over the past four years, supported by Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements that encourage two-way investment flows.
Dawood Al Shezawi, Chairman of AIM Global Foundation, said UAE investors are increasingly acting as partnership builders rather than just providers of capital. Dr. Khaled Hanafy, Secretary-General of the Union of Arab Chambers, described the UAE as a leading investment model.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
