UAE Non-Oil Foreign Trade Grows 13.1 Percent in 2026

The United Arab Emirates reported that its non-oil foreign trade grew by 13.1 percent annually in the first half of 2026, totaling Dh1.937 trillion ($520 billion). Non-oil exports reached a record Dh452.8 billion, representing a 23.9 percent annual increase. Officials attribute this growth to the national economic diversification plan and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (Cepa) programme, which generated Dh304.3 billion in trade among active partner countries.

China remains the largest trading partner for the UAE, followed by Switzerland and India, while gold continues as the primary traded commodity with a value of Dh706.2 billion. UN Trade and Development identified the UAE as the top recipient of foreign direct investment in the Middle East region.

The International Monetary Fund noted that the UAE maintained economic resilience despite disruptions caused by the Iran war. The IMF expects a rebound in the second half of the year following the country's exit from OPEC.