UAE Non-Oil Foreign Trade Nears Dh3 Trillion in 2026
The UAE’s non-oil foreign trade reached Dh2.945 trillion in the first nine months of 2026, recording a 10.1% increase compared with the same period last year. The figure brings the country close to the Dh3 trillion milestone, supported by record exports and growing international trade activity.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced the figures on November 8 after reviewing the country’s latest foreign trade report.
Non-oil exports reached Dh705.8 billion, marking a 21.6% increase year-on-year. Imports rose 11.5% to Dh1.661 trillion, while re-exports totalled Dh578 billion.
The share of non-oil exports in total non-oil foreign trade also increased to 24%, compared with 21.7% during the same period in 2025. September recorded another milestone, with monthly non-oil exports exceeding Dh100 billion for the first time.
Exports to the UAE‘s ten largest trading partners increased by 31.6%. Switzerland, Hong Kong and India were among the leading destinations for UAE non-oil exports. Shipments to Switzerland increased 75.8%, while exports to Hong Kong grew 59.1%.
The country also recorded strong trade activity during the third quarter. Non-oil foreign trade reached Dh1.025 trillion between July and September, representing a 7.1% increase compared with the same quarter in 2025.
The UAE’s Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) have also supported trade growth by opening new markets, reducing trade barriers and improving access for national businesses.
As of October 20, 2026, the UAE had 19 CEPAs in force covering 23 countries. Non-oil trade with these countries reached approximately Dh510.8 billion during the first nine months of the year.
Sheikh Mohammed said the UAE would continue expanding its export markets and strengthening international partnerships despite global economic and political challenges. The latest figures further highlight the country’s growing role as an international trade and logistics hub.
