The United Arab Emirates recorded a total foreign trade volume of AED 5.23 trillion (USD 1.424 trillion) in 2024, compared to AED 3.5 trillion (USD 949 billion) in 2021, a remarkable leap that reflects the country’s ambitious economic vision. According to the “Global Trade Outlook and Statistics” report by the World Trade Organization, the UAE has continued to lead the regional trade landscape since 2014, solidifying its position as one of the fastest-growing global economies in foreign trade and among the world’s top 20 trade hubs for goods and services.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, affirmed that the UAE has established itself as a global economic center and a bridge between East and West. He stated that the country has chosen, from the very beginning, a path of openness, bridge-building, and freedom of movement for trade, capital, and people, becoming today a vital link between East and West and a global economic hub that adapts to global shifts.
His Highness pointed out that the WTO report highlighted the UAE’s significant achievements in 2024. The country recorded a trade surplus exceeding AED 490 billion and ranked 11th globally in goods exports and 13th in services exports. The UAE exported services worth AED 650 billion, of which AED 191 billion were digital services, representing 30% of total service exports. Goods exports reached AED 2.2 trillion, reflecting a 6% growth over the previous year. His Highness also noted that the UAE alone accounts for 41% of the Middle East’s total goods exports, further reinforcing its role as the region’s main trade hub and largest commercial center.
He concluded by reaffirming that, with the UAE’s continued commitment to openness and trade liberalization—and under the president’s leadership and guidance—the country will sustain its achievements and continue to lead global economic growth.