Page 353 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - APRIL 2025 (Part 1)

4/23/25, 4:36 PM UAE Foreign Trade Hits AED 5.23 Trillion in 2024
UAE Foreign Trade Tops Dh 5.23 Trillion in 2024, Posts Dh
490 Billion Surplus

BY FAIZAL APRIL 21, 2025, 4:31 A.M. 0 217

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The UAE’s foreign trade surged to a record Dh 5.23 trillion in 2024, marking a significant rebound amid
global economic headwinds. The result reflects the federation’s continued commitment to open markets,
strategic infrastructure investments and trade‑friendly policies.

Goods Exports Drive Momentum

Merchandise exports rose to Dh 2.2 trillion last year, up 6 percent over 2023’s total. Key sectors
contributing to this growth included petroleum products, aluminum, and petrochemicals, underscoring the
UAE’s role as a leading regional supplier.
Services Sector Posts Strong Gains
Service exports reached Dh 650 billion, propelled by a boom in digital offerings. Exports of digital
services alone amounted to Dh 191 billion, accounting for 30 percent of the services tally. Logistics,
tourism and financial services also recorded notable expansions.
Regional Hub for Trade and Investment
According to World Trade Organization data, the UAE now represents 41 percent of the Middle East’s
total merchandise exports, more than any other country in the region. This cements its position as the
principal gateway for goods moving between East and West.

Leadership’s Vision of Openness
Announcing the figures on his official X account, Vice President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed
bin Rashid Al Maktoum emphasized the strategic choice of openness:
He added,
Outlook

With trade volumes and surpluses at historic highs, the UAE is poised to deepen its global commercial
ties in 2025. Planned expansions in logistics infrastructure, digital trade platforms and free‑zone
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