Key Points

Abu Dhabi's non-oil trade soared 34.7% in H1 2025, reaching AED 195.4 billion. Exports led the surge with a 64% jump, while imports and re-exports also posted strong gains. Officials credit economic diversification, smart logistics, and digital trade facilitation for the growth. The emirate aims to strengthen its role as a global trade and investment hub.

Key Points: Abu Dhabi Non-Oil Trade Surges 35% to AED 195 Billion in H1 2025

  • Non-oil exports surged 64% to AED 78.5 billion
  • Imports rose 15% to AED 80 billion
  • Re-exports grew 35% to AED 36 billion
  • Growth reflects economic diversification and logistics efficiency
3 min read

UAE: Abu Dhabi's non-oil foreign trade grew 34.7 pc in H1 2025

Abu Dhabi's non-oil trade hits AED 195.4 billion in H1 2025, driven by 64% export growth and economic diversification efforts.

"Abu Dhabi’s steady trade growth reaffirms our position as a global economic powerhouse. – Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, ADDED Chairman"

Abu Dhabi, August 3

The Abu Dhabi's non-oil foreign trade continued its growth trajectory, recording a strong performance during the first half of current year (From January to June 2025), soaring 34.7 per cent to AED 195.4 billion compared to AED 145 billion during the corresponding period in 2024, according to statistics released Today by Abu Dhabi Customs.

This growth reflects the resilience and dynamism of Abu Dhabi's economy, supported by the efficiency of its infrastructure and the advancement of logistics services, which have helped facilitate trade flows and enhance the smooth movement of goods through border crossings.

During the first six months of 2025, Abu Dhabi's non-oil exports grew by 64 per cent, reaching AED 78.5 billion, up from AED 47.9 billion in H1-2024. Imports rose by 15 per cent to AED80 billion, compared to AED 70 billion. Meanwhile, re-exports registered a 35 per cent increase, surpassing AED 36 billion, compared to AED 26.6 billion in the first half of 2024.

The increase in non-oil foreign trade volume underscores the strength of Abu Dhabi's economic diversification strategies, forward-looking policies, and significant investments across key sectors. These efforts collectively support the emirate's drive to strengthen its position as a leading regional and global trade and logistics hub.

Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), said, "Abu Dhabi's non-oil foreign trade steady performance in H1-2025 reaffirms our position as a global economic powerhouse, bridging East and West, North and South. Our consistent growth, amid the challenges in the international trade and global economy, reflects the strengths of our long-term economic planning, decisive policy execution, and our commitment to enabling fair and free exchange of goods, services, and innovations."

Al Zaabi added, "We are doubling down our efforts to position Abu Dhabi among the world's most business-ready economies by streamlining trade procedures, deploying smart systems, and integrating services to enhance flow and accelerate efficiency, cementing Abu Dhabi's position as global trade and investment centre and a key node on international supply chains."

Rashed Lahej Al Mansoori, Director-General of Abu Dhabi Customs, said, "The growth in non-oil foreign trade during the first half of 2025 reflects the success of Abu Dhabi's economic strategies and highlights the effectiveness of efforts made by Abu Dhabi Customs, in collaboration with strategic partners, to facilitate trade. These efforts are driven by the adoption of advanced systems, innovations, and digital technologies."

He emphasised the continued commitment to developing a proactive and agile customs ecosystem that supports global supply chains and enhances the emirate's competitiveness as a regional and international hub for trade and business.

"Abu Dhabi Customs remains dedicated to delivering best-in-class services and procedures that accelerate customs clearance and promote integration with both local and international partners, thereby supporting sustainable growth, enabling the future economy, and reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position on the global trade map," Al Mansoori concluded. (ANI/WAM)

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
As someone working in export business, I must say these numbers are remarkable. But I wonder - how much of this trade is with India? We have strong ties with UAE, would love to see more detailed breakdown of trade partners.
R
Rohit P
While the growth is impressive, I hope they're not ignoring environmental concerns in this rapid expansion. Sustainable trade practices matter as much as numbers. 🌱
S
Sarah B
The 64% export growth is phenomenal! This shows what proper infrastructure and policy can achieve. Indian ports and customs could really benefit from adopting similar digital systems they mention.
V
Vikram M
Good for UAE, but let's not forget many Indian workers contribute to this success. Hope their rights and working conditions are also improving with this economic growth.
K
Kavya N
The numbers look great, but I'm curious - what exactly are they exporting? Is it manufactured goods or something else? The article doesn't specify the key sectors driving this growth.
M
Michael C
This makes me optimistic about India-UAE CEPA (trade agreement). If implemented well, our businesses can benefit from this growing market. The 35% re-export growth shows their hub potential.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50