195 Billion Dirhams in Non-Oil Foreign Trade for Abu Dhabi in the First Half of the Year
Abu Dhabi’s non-oil foreign trade continues to achieve positive results, with the total trade value reaching 195.4 billion dirhams in the first half of this year, an increase of 34.7% compared to the same period last year. These figures reflect the dynamics and economic effectiveness of the emirate, supported by advanced infrastructure and logistics services that facilitate cross-border trade. This article reviews the details of Abu Dhabi’s foreign trade, along with the notable growth in exports and imports, and explores the emirate’s strategies to enhance its role as a major center in global trade.
Growth in Non-Oil Foreign Trade
The strong performance of non-oil foreign trade in Abu Dhabi continued, with a total value of 195.4 billion dirhams during the first half of the year, up from 145 billion dirhams in the same period of 2024. This growth demonstrates Abu Dhabi’s ability to achieve significant progress in economic conditions and indicates the effectiveness of developmental strategies based on economic diversification. There has also been a remarkable increase in the emirate’s exports, which rose by 64% to reach 78.5 billion dirhams, compared to 47.9 billion dirhams in the same period last year.
Increase in Imports and Re-exports
Regarding imports, there was a slight growth of 15%, with values rising to 80 billion dirhams, compared to 70 billion dirhams in the first half of 2024. On the other hand, re-export activities recorded a 35% increase, exceeding 36 billion dirhams, compared to 26.6 billion dirhams in the same period last year. This performance reflects the success of plans designed to facilitate trade and enhance fluidity at border crossings.
Diversification and Innovation Strategies
The growth in non-oil foreign trade is attributed to the diverse strategies adopted by Abu Dhabi to enhance its position as a global trade hub. Ahmed Jassem Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Department of Economic Development in Abu Dhabi, stated, “The outstanding performance of non-oil foreign trade during the first half of 2025 confirms Abu Dhabi’s status as a global economic powerhouse.” He added, “We are doubling our efforts to solidify Abu Dhabi’s position among the leading economic systems that support business” through the development of solutions and trade facilitation.
Customs Efficiency and Its Role in Improving Trade
Rashed Lahij Al Mansouri, Director General of Abu Dhabi Customs, explained that the growth in non-oil foreign trade reflects the success of economic strategies and confirms the efficiency of customs efforts in collaboration with strategic partners. Innovative systems and advanced digital technologies have been adopted to facilitate trade movement, enhancing Abu Dhabi’s trade position on both regional and global levels.
The figures indicate that Abu Dhabi’s non-oil foreign trade is heading towards further sustainable growth, with ongoing enhancements to infrastructure and logistics services, which will positively impact both the local and international economies.