Abu Dhabi’s non-oil foreign trade recorded strong momentum in 2025, rising 36 percent to more than AED 415.4 billion, up from roughly AED 306 billion in 2024, according to Abu Dhabi Customs. The performance underscores the emirate’s accelerating role in global trade, supported by growing commercial activity and deeper economic ties with international markets.
Exports led the expansion, surging 63 percent year-on-year to AED 175.4 billion, compared to AED 107.8 billion in 2024. Imports also posted solid growth, increasing 22 percent to AED 170.4 billion, while re-exports climbed 20 percent to reach AED 70 billion, up from AED 58 billion the previous year.
The figures highlight Abu Dhabi’s continued progress in diversifying its economy and strengthening its trade infrastructure. They also reflect the efficiency of systems supporting business activity and cross-border exchange.
Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, said the emirate’s trade performance reflects a highly coordinated system designed for scale and reliability. He emphasized that alignment across policy, infrastructure, and market access has enabled smoother and faster trade flows, while reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position within key global trade corridors.
He added that sustained growth across exports, imports, and re-exports demonstrates stronger integration into international markets, even as global conditions become more complex. The emirate, he noted, remains focused on improving logistics capabilities, expanding partnerships, and facilitating efficient cross-border trade.
Rashed Lahej Al Mansoori, Director General of Abu Dhabi Customs, said the results reflect the success of policies aimed at building a competitive, diversified, and sustainable economic model. He pointed to strong collaboration between the public and private sectors, with the customs ecosystem playing a central role in enabling business growth.
Al Mansoori also highlighted ongoing efforts to modernize customs operations through advanced digital systems, enhanced risk management, and improved efficiency. These initiatives, he said, are helping accelerate the movement of goods, streamline procedures, and further strengthen Abu Dhabi’s standing as a global trade and investment hub.
In terms of transport modes, air freight accounted for 33.5 percent of total non-oil trade, followed by land at 35 percent and sea at 31.5 percent, reflecting a well-balanced and resilient logistics network across the emirate.
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