DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — The UAE’s non-oil foreign trade reached a record 1.937 trillion dirhams in the first half of 2026, putting the country within reach of the 2 trillion dirham mark in just six months.
Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said the figure represents a 13.1% increase compared with the same period last year. He said the numbers reflect more than trade growth, pointing to the strength of the UAE economy, the success of its development strategy and rising global confidence in the country.
Non-oil exports also posted a new high, climbing to 452.8 billion dirhams in the first six months of the year. That marked a 23.4% increase from the same period in 2025.
The UAE Government Media Office said trade with countries covered by active Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements reached 304.3 billion dirhams, underscoring the role of the country’s expanding trade partnerships in supporting growth.
The gains come as the UAE continues to position itself as a major regional and global trading hub with reduced reliance on hydrocarbons and stronger links to international markets.
Anwar Gargash, adviser to the UAE president, said the country has kept moving forward despite regional headwinds and difficult conditions, guided by long-term planning and confidence in the Emirati model.
The latest figures add to a broader economic picture in which non-oil sectors continue to drive activity. Further trade and export growth is expected in the second half of the year as the UAE builds on its network of global partnerships.
