Abu Dhabi’s non-oil foreign trade rose 34.7% in the first half of 2025 to Dh195.4 billion, up from Dh145 billion in the same period last year, according to data released Monday by Abu Dhabi Customs.
The increase was led by a sharp rise in non-oil exports, which grew to Dh78.5 billion, up 64% from Dh47.9 billion in H1 2024. Imports climbed 15% to Dh80 billion, while re-exports reached Dh36 billion, marking a 35% year-on-year increase.
The figures highlight continued momentum behind the emirate’s economic diversification strategy, with trade infrastructure and logistics systems playing a central role in supporting growth. Abu Dhabi has been investing in automation and border infrastructure, including the expansion of digital customs platforms, to reduce processing times and boost throughput.
Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, said the data confirms the emirate’s position as a key global trade node. He noted ongoing efforts to streamline procedures and integrate services across trade platforms.
Rashed Lahej Al Mansoori, director-general of Abu Dhabi Customs, attributed the performance to the rollout of digital systems and stronger collaboration with trade partners. He added that the agency aims to strengthen customs clearance further and maintain alignment with international supply chain standards.
The trade data comes as the UAE continues to expand bilateral economic partnerships through Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs), most recently with South Korea and Colombia, in a bid to widen market access for Emirati exports. Abu Dhabi’s trade focus remains concentrated on sectors such as metals, machinery, electrical equipment, and transport components, in line with its industrial strategy.
