DIEZ records highest-ever trade at AED 491 billion in 2025
Strong growth underlines Dubai’s global trade leadership and economic resilience
Dubai: The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) recorded its highest-ever performance in 2025, with total trade reaching AED 491 billion, marking a 46% increase compared to the previous year and its fifth consecutive year of growth.
The results reflect strong expansion in trade flows and goods movement, with total trade value quadrupling since 2020. Total trade volume also rose by 50% to reach 667,800 tonnes, indicating growth driven by increased commercial activity rather than price factors.
DIEZ’s contribution to Dubai’s non-oil trade increased to 16% in 2025, as the emirate’s external trade surpassed AED3 trillion. Imports remained the main driver of growth for the third consecutive year.
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, said the record performance highlights the strength and dynamism of Dubai’s economic and trade environment, built under the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
He noted that the growth reflects Dubai’s ability to adapt to global changes and convert them into new opportunities, reinforcing its position as a global hub connecting markets, investments, and trade.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of DIEZ, said the results demonstrate the resilience of Dubai’s economic model and its ability to achieve sustainable growth through value-added activities, logistics integration, and technological advancement.
He added that reaching AED 491 billion in trade and increasing DIEZ’s contribution to Dubai’s trade underline its role in strengthening the emirate’s position as a global centre for advanced trade.
Dr Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ, said the growth reflects real expansion in cargo movement and trade volumes. He added that the performance highlights the success of strategies focused on diversifying trade partners, boosting re-exports, and developing supply chains.
The machinery, electrical, and electronic equipment sector led trade activity, accounting for more than 70% of total trade and growing by 42%. The precious stones, metals, and pearls sector followed, recording a 71% increase and contributing approximately 26% of total trade.
China remained DIEZ’s largest trading partner, accounting for 28.7% of total trade, followed by Saudi Arabia with 9.6% growth and India at 8%.
These results highlight DIEZ’s growing role as a key pillar of Dubai’s non-oil trade ecosystem, reinforcing the emirate’s global competitiveness and long-term economic growth.