The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is on a robust trajectory to expand its economic and trade partnerships across global markets. This strategic initiative aims to bolster the openness of the national economy, diversify export markets, enhance the competitiveness of the private sector, and establish the UAE as a global hub for trade and investment.
A Surge in Comprehensive Economic Partnerships
Since the launch of its Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPA) programme in September 2021, the UAE has successfully signed 38 such agreements. These partnerships encompass a wide array of markets spanning Asia, Africa, Europe, and beyond, with many agreements already in effect. The implementation of these agreements maximises the benefits to Emirati businesses, from improved market access to reduced tariffs and trade barriers.
Record-Breaking Non-Oil Trade
Coinciding with the expansion of its partnership network, the UAE has witnessed unprecedented levels of non-oil foreign trade, registering an impressive AED 1.937 trillion during the first half of 2026. Exports in non-oil sectors have also seen substantial growth, reaching approximately AED 452.8 billion. These figures reflect an expanding base of trade-related activities and products.
Trade with CEPA Partners
Data indicates that trade with countries that have active CEPA agreements totalled about AED 304.3 billion in the first half of the year. During this period, UAE exports to these markets accounted for roughly AED 66.1 billion, underlining their significance in the nation’s external trade framework.
Diverse Partners and Markets
The CEPA programme not only focuses on traditional markets but also aims to diversify trade partnerships and open new avenues for Emirati exports and investments. In Asia, the partnership covers key markets such as India, Indonesia, and Turkey, while extending to European nations like Ukraine and Serbia. The involvement of African nations is noteworthy, with agreements and negotiations underway with countries such as Kenya, Gabon, and the Republic of the Congo.
Recent Agreements Enhance Cooperation
Among the latest agreements signed with African nations, the UAE and Gabon have crafted a deal to strengthen trade and collaboration between the private sectors, simplifying investments in areas including agriculture, logistics, and renewable energy. Similarly, the agreement between the UAE and the Republic of the Congo focuses on enhancing bilateral trade and creating long-term investment opportunities.
Strengthening Ties with East Africa and Europe
In East Africa, the UAE and Kenya have established a CEPA aimed at reinforcing trade and investment relations while improving market access in both the Middle East and East Africa. In Europe, the CEPA between the UAE and Ukraine took effect on 1 July 2026, creating additional opportunities for trade and investment among private sectors in both countries. The CEPA with Serbia has also commenced, featuring significant reductions in tariffs across a broad spectrum of goods.
India: A Case Study of Success
India, one of the first countries to activate a CEPA with the UAE, demonstrates the potential of these agreements to spur bilateral trade. During the first half of 2026, non-oil trade between the UAE and India reached AED 107.5 billion, showcasing the efficacy of the CEPA framework.
Ongoing Expansion and Future Prospects
The UAE’s network of agreements continues to grow, as negotiations with Canada concluded in July 2026, marking one of the fastest completions under the CEPA programme. The trade volume between the two countries reached approximately USD 4.2 billion in 2025, reflecting a significant growth of 21% from the previous year.
Fostering Industrial Export Capability
These developments are particularly significant in light of the UAE’s strategy to link trade agreements with enhanced export capacity within the industrial sector. Participants at the “Made in the UAE 2026” event have reiterated that the CEPA programme paves the way for Emirati products, advanced services, and industrial exports to penetrate both matured and emerging markets.
A Strategic Framework for Global Trade
In conclusion, the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements represent a critical aspect of a broader strategy aimed at enhancing the UAE’s position within global trade networks. With its robust logistical infrastructure, ports, and free zones, the UAE is well-positioned to connect Asian, African, and European markets. The growing network of agreements offers the private sector greater opportunities to diversify export destinations, access new markets, and benefit from lower tariffs and improved access conditions, thereby enhancing opportunities for investment and productive partnerships with participating nations.