Trade and Re-export
Trade agreements
The CEPA programme began in September 2021 and had produced 38 agreements by August 2026. More are entering into force, including the agreements with Ukraine, from 1 July 2026, and Serbia.1
Trade in the economy
Wholesale and retail trade was the biggest part of non-oil GDP in 2025, at 16.9%, ahead of finance and insurance at 13.2%.2,3
Jebel Ali's origin and destination volumes, cargo bound to or from the UAE rather than passing through, grew about 9% in 2025.4
Re-exporting from a free zone is usually exempt from customs duty while goods stay in the zone; duty applies when goods enter the UAE mainland.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the UAE trade?
Non-oil foreign trade reached AED 3.8 trillion in 2025, up more than 26%, and the UAE has signed 38 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements since 2021.
Sources
- Emirates News Agency (WAM): UAE expands its presence on the global trade map (15 August 2026)
- The National: UAE GDP hit $517bn in 2025 as non-oil sector grew 6.8% (May 2026)
- Fast Company Middle East: UAE economy grows 6.2% in 2025 as GDP reaches AED 1.9 trillion
- DP World: Record $24.4bn revenue and $6.4bn EBITDA for 2025 (March 2026)
Figures checked 21 October 2026. Prepared by Invest-Emirates.ae for general information. It is not investment, tax or legal advice; please confirm details with a qualified adviser before acting.