By Desmond Nleya, Daily Times Reporter
DUBAI-The United Arab Emirates has entered the world’s top 10 exporting nations for the first time, according to the latest report by the World Trade Organization, marking a significant milestone in the country’s expanding role in global trade.
In its “World Trade Prospects and Statistics” report, the WTO said the UAE’s total goods and services trade surged from $949 billion in 2021 to $1.637 trillion in 2025. Goods trade accounted for $1.33 trillion, with exports making up 53 percent of that total, while services trade reached AED1.14 trillion.
The UAE recorded a trade surplus of AED584.1 billion in 2025, reflecting a 19 percent increase compared to the previous year. The country ranked ninth globally in goods exports and 13th in imports, maintaining its position as a key trade hub across the Middle East and Africa.
Growth in services played a central role in the expansion, with the sector surpassing AED1 trillion for the first time. Key industries including finance, logistics, hospitality, information technology, and transport recorded growth rates ranging between 9 percent and 14 percent. Digital services exports reached $33 billion, accounting for 17 percent of total services exports.
Minister of State for Foreign Trade Thani Al Zeyoudi said the achievement reflects sustained global confidence in the UAE’s economic framework and competitiveness despite ongoing geopolitical pressures. He pointed to continued efforts to deepen international trade partnerships through the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement programme and improve supply chain efficiency through regulatory and technological reforms.
The WTO said global trade growth is expected to slow in 2026 due to geopolitical tensions and rising energy costs. However, it noted that the UAE remains well positioned to maintain growth momentum through its diversified economic strategy and continued international cooperation.
Source: Emirates News Agency
