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United Arab Emirates (UAE): Country Overview

Flag_of_the_United_Arab_Emirates
shk-zayed

Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan
The founding father and the principal driving force behind the formation of the United Arab Emirates

Established on 2 December 1971, the United Arab Emirates is a federal nation comprising seven emirates. The country is governed by the Federal Supreme Council, the highest constitutional authority, made up of the rulers of each emirate.

Population and Geography

According to World Bank estimates, the UAE’s population reached approximately 9.68 million in 2019, reflecting its status as a global hub attracting talent and investment.

Strategically located in the Arabian Peninsula, the UAE shares borders with:

  • Saudi Arabia

  • Oman

  • Qatar

The country spans a total area of 83,600 square kilometres, making it a key gateway between East and West.

The Seven Emirates of the UAE

  1. Abu Dhabi: The capital of the UAE and the largest emirate geographically and economically. Abu Dhabi is the political and administrative center, known for its oil wealth, cultural institutions, and strategic leadership in sustainability. Visit Abu Dhabi >>>

  2. Dubai: The commercial capital of the UAE and a global city home to over 190 nationalities. Dubai is famous for its luxury lifestyle, cutting-edge infrastructure, and landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world.. Visit Dubai >>>

  3. Sharjah: Recognized as the cultural capital of the UAE, Sharjah is the third-largest emirate. It is known for its rich heritage, museums, and strong focus on arts and education. Its proximity to Dubai makes it a popular residential choice for commuters.Visit Sharjah>>>

  4. Ajman: The smallest emirate, covering approximately 260 square kilometres. Ajman is known for its welcoming atmosphere, growing tourism sector, and investor-friendly environment. Visit Ajman

the city of the future

The City of Abu Dhabi
The capital city of UAE

Abu Dhabi

5. Umm Al Quwain:​ The least populated emirate and second smallest in size, covering around 720 square kilometres. It offers a rich environment with a focus on heritage and eco-tourism. Visit Umm Al Quwain>>>

6. Ras Al Khaimah: Historically known as Julfar, Ras Al Khaimah spans 2,478 square kilometres and features a 65 km coastline. It is a popular destination for outdoor activities, beach resorts, and adventure tourism. Visit Ras Al Khaimah>>>

7. Fujairah: The only emirate located on the Gulf of Oman, Fujairah covers approximately 1,166 square kilometres. It is known for its scenic mountains, beaches, and strategic maritime importance.  Visit Fujairah>>>

Dubai
The land of the world tallest building

United Arab Emirates
Ras Al Khaimah
Image courtesy: www.theculturetrip.com
Dubai
Fujairah
Image courtesy: www.myconcierge.com

UAE Trade and Export Statistics: A Global Economic Powerhouse

The United Arab Emirates has firmly positioned itself as a leading global trade hub, connecting East and West through a diversified and open economy. Its strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and pro-business environment continue to drive strong export performance and international trade growth.

UAE Export Performance

In 2018, UAE exports reached $316.9 billion (AED 1.16 trillion), reflecting a steady 1.1% growth compared to 2017. This strong performance highlights the country’s ability to expand beyond domestic markets and compete globally.

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With a population of approximately 9.7 million, the UAE achieved an impressive per capita export value of around $32,700 (AED 120,000). At a macroeconomic level, exports contributed approximately 24% of the UAE’s GDP, underlining the critical role of trade in the national economy.

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In addition to goods, the UAE exported $71.8 billion (AED 263.5 billion) in services, contributing nearly 9.9% to GDP (PPP). These figures include significant re-export activity, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global logistics and re-export hub.

Container Ship Dock

Key UAE Export Markets

The UAE maintains strong trade relationships with multiple global partners. Nearly 49.4% of exports are concentrated in key markets, including:

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  • Saudi Arabia – 9.7%

  • India – 5.7%

  • Iraq – 5%

  • Oman – 4.6%

  • Switzerland – 2.8%

  • China – 2.3%

  • Belgium – 2%

  • Bahrain – 2%

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These diversified export destinations reflect the UAE’s global reach and balanced trade strategy.

Top UAE Export Sectors

The UAE’s export portfolio is diverse, with both traditional and non-oil sectors contributing significantly. The top 10 export categories in 2018 included:

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  1. Hydrocarbon Products (Oil & Gas) – $92.5B (29.2%)

  2. Precious Stones & Metals – $45.9B (14.5%)

  3. Electrical Machinery & Equipment – $27.3B (8.6%)

  4. Electronics & Computers – $17.6B (5.6%)

  5. Vehicles – $12.9B (4.1%)

  6. Aluminium – $6.4B (2%)

  7. Plastics – $5.5B (1.7%)

  8. Tobacco & Alternatives – $4.5B (1.4%)

  9. Aircraft & Space Components – $4.2B (1.3%)

  10. Perfumes & Cosmetics – $3.5B (1.1%)

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Collectively, these sectors accounted for approximately 69.5% of total exports.

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Notably, perfumes and cosmetics emerged as the fastest-growing export category, with a remarkable 48.4% increase, followed by strong growth in mineral fuels, which rose by 33.7%.

UAE and the Global Trade System

Since joining the World Trade Organization in 1996, the UAE has championed an open and competitive economy. Its business-friendly policies, free trade zones, and strong international partnerships have enabled it to evolve into a global trade and logistics hub.

The UAE continues to invest in innovation, youth development, and economic diversification, ensuring long-term resilience and sustainable growth across sectors such as trade, science, and technology.

International Flags Display

UAE Trade Facts and Global Rankings

The United Arab Emirates continues to strengthen its position as a global trade and logistics hub, with strong rankings across international trade, exports, and re-exports.

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Key UAE Trade Statistics

  • The UAE’s foreign trade spans 198 global markets, reflecting its extensive international reach

  • Ranked 22nd globally in services exports and 21st in services imports

  • Achieved AED 1.63 trillion in non-oil foreign trade (2018)

  • Ranked 16th globally in merchandise exports

  • Ranked 20th globally in merchandise imports

UAE Re-Exports and Sector Highlights

  • The UAE ranks #1 globally in mobile phone re-exports, valued at AED 86 billion

  • Gold accounts for approximately 25% of total UAE exports, reinforcing its role in global commodities trade

  • Free zones contribute 36% of the UAE’s total non-oil foreign trade, highlighting their strategic importance

UAE Trade by Region

  • Asia-Pacific region accounts for 39.3% of total UAE trade

  • Europe contributes 22.4% of the UAE’s non-oil trade

  • Arab countries represent 21% of total UAE international trade, valued at AED 341.2 billion

  • These figures demonstrate the UAE’s balanced and diversified trade partnerships across key global regions.

UAE’s Position in the Global Economy

  • With its strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and business-friendly ecosystem, the UAE has established itself as a leading gateway for global commerce. Its strong performance in non-oil trade, re-exports, and services exportsreflects ongoing success in economic diversification.

UAE’s Position in the Global Economy

  • With its strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and business-friendly ecosystem, the UAE has established itself as a leading gateway for global commerce. Its strong performance in non-oil trade, re-exports, and services exportsreflects ongoing success in economic diversification.

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