The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) has reported a record-breaking $133.7 billion in trade for 2025, marking its fifth straight year of growth and solidifying its role as a central pillar in Dubai’s economic diversification strategy. The figure represents a significant 46% jump from 2024 and is four times higher than its trade volume in 2020.
Quick Facts
- Total trade reached $133.7 billion in 2025.
- Represents a 46% year-on-year increase.
- Accounts for 16% of Dubai’s non-oil trade.
A Pillar of Dubai’s Economic Strategy
The impressive performance underscores the growing confidence investors and trading partners have in Dubai’s economic infrastructure. Imports continued to be the primary growth driver for the third consecutive year, as DIEZ’s contribution to Dubai’s total non-oil trade climbed to 16%.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, stated the results reflect the strength of Dubai’s economic and trade ecosystem, developed under the vision of UAE Vice President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
He noted the figures demonstrate continued confidence in Dubai’s economic foundations and highlight the critical role of economic zones in facilitating trade.
The growth comes as Gulf countries accelerate investment in logistics and non-oil sectors. In Saudi Arabia, non-oil exports hit $166 billion in 2025, a 15% increase, while Oman’s non-oil exports grew 7.5% to $17.4 billion.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of DIEZ, said the results reflect the resilience of the authority’s economic model and its ability to deliver sustainable growth.
“Achieving $133.7 billion in trade and increasing DIEZ’s contribution to 16% of Dubai’s trade reinforces the authority’s role in strengthening the emirate’s position as a global hub for advanced trade,” he added.
Trade Breakdown: Electronics and Precious Metals Dominate
An analysis of the trade data shows that growth was supported by higher cargo movement, not just price inflation, with total trade volume increasing 50% to 667,800 tons.
The machinery, electrical equipment, and electronics sector was the largest contributor, accounting for over 70% of DIEZ’s trade activity with 42% growth. Following this was the precious stones, precious metals, and pearls sector, which expanded by 71% and made up approximately 26% of total trade. Combined, these two sectors represented 96% of the authority’s overall trade.
Deepening Regional and Global Trade Corridors
China maintained its position as DIEZ’s top trading partner, accounting for 28.7% of total trade. Regional powerhouse Saudi Arabia ranked second with a 9.6% share, followed by India at 8%.
Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ, emphasized that the results reflect structural growth in trade flows rather than short-term market factors.
He also pointed to expanding trade relationships, particularly with Saudi Arabia, as a key factor creating opportunities for deeper regional integration and long-term economic cooperation.
About Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ)
The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) consolidates and oversees several key free zones in Dubai, including Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZ), Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), and Dubai CommerCity. It aims to enhance Dubai’s position as a global hub for trade and investment by offering integrated solutions and a business-friendly environment for companies operating within its zones.
Source: Fast Company ME
