The UAE’s non-oil foreign trade increased 10.1 per cent year-on-year to AED 2.94 trillion ($801.9 billion) during the first nine months of 2026, driven by a strong rise in non-oil exports and expanding international trade partnerships.
Non-oil exports grew 21.6 per cent to AED 706 billion, while imports increased 11.5 per cent to AED 1.66 trillion. Re-exports amounted to AED 578 billion, according to the Emirates News Agency (WAM).
Exports accounted for 24 per cent of total non-oil foreign trade, compared with 21.7 per cent during the corresponding period last year. Monthly non-oil exports crossed AED 100 billion for the first time in September 2026.
The growth reflects the UAE’s ongoing efforts to diversify its trading partners and strengthen its position as a global trade and logistics hub through Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs).
Non-oil trade with 23 countries covered by the 19 CEPAs in force as of October 20 reached approximately AED 510.8 billion.
UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Thani bin Ahmed Al-Zeyoudi said the agreements played a pivotal role in boosting exports by opening new markets, facilitating the movement of goods, reducing trade barriers and providing UAE companies with wider access to international consumers and business partners.
Switzerland, Hong Kong and India Lead Export Markets
Switzerland, Hong Kong and India emerged as the leading destinations for UAE non-oil exports, with gold, jewellery and tobacco products among the major export categories.
Saudi Arabia remained the largest destination for re-exports, followed by Iraq and Oman.
UAE Expands Global Trade Partnerships
The UAE continues to expand its network of trade agreements to improve market access and strengthen international supply chains.
Its Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with Vietnam came into force on February 3, eliminating tariffs on more than 95 per cent of qualifying goods, including products from free zones. The agreement also covers services and investment and simplifies customs procedures.
More recently, the UAE and Canada signed a CEPA during Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan’s visit to Ottawa in October, following the conclusion of negotiations in July.
The agreement aims to improve bilateral market access, strengthen supply chains and encourage investment, with priority areas including logistics, advanced manufacturing, critical minerals, agriculture and digital technologies.
The strong trade performance underscores the UAE’s growing role in international commerce, supported by export diversification, trade liberalisation and strategic economic partnerships.