By: Business News editorial team
Dubai’s trade sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth in the first quarter of 2025, reinforcing its position as a global trading hub. With strategic investments in logistics and digital infrastructure, the emirate continues to attract international business while diversifying its economic base. This report examines Dubai’s trade performance, GDP contribution, and the top 10 countries driving its import-export economy during Q1 2025.
Key Highlights
- Total trade volume reached AED 612 billion, a 7.2% increase year-over-year
- Non-oil trade accounted for 93% of total trade activity
- Top sectors: Precious metals (22%), electronics (18%), machinery (15%)
- Jebel Ali Port handled 4.3 million TEUs, maintaining its regional dominance
- Trade contributed 29% to Dubai’s estimated 3.9% GDP growth
Trade Performance Breakdown
1. Total Trade Volume (Q1 2025)
| Category | Value (AED Billion) | Growth (YoY) |
|---|---|---|
| Imports | 295 | +6.5% |
| Exports | 185 | +8.1% |
| Re-exports | 132 | +9.3% |
2. Top 10 Trading Partners
| Rank | Country | Trade Value (AED Billion) | Key Commodities |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | China | 98 | Electronics, Machinery, Textiles |
| 2 | India | 78 | Gold, Diamonds, Pharmaceuticals |
| 3 | Saudi Arabia | 63 | Petrochemicals, Construction Materials |
| 4 | United States | 52 | Aerospace, Medical Equipment |
| 5 | Switzerland | 47 | Gold, Precision Instruments |
| 6 | Germany | 40 | Industrial Machinery, Automotive |
| 7 | Japan | 34 | Vehicle Parts, Electronics |
| 8 | United Kingdom | 30 | Financial Services, Luxury Goods |
| 9 | Turkey | 27 | Textiles, Construction Materials |
| 10 | South Korea | 24 | Electronics, Semiconductor Equipment |
Sector Analysis
- Precious Metals: Maintained lead position (AED 135 billion) despite market volatility
- Electronics: Record 18% growth due to AI hardware demand
- Machinery: Industrial equipment imports up 12% as manufacturing expands
- Pharmaceuticals: Emerging sector with 15% growth year-over-year
Economic Impact
Dubai’s trade sector continues to be the backbone of its economy:
- Direct contribution to GDP: 29% (up from 27% in Q1 2024)
- Employment: Supports 38% of private sector jobs
- Future outlook: Digital trade initiatives expected to boost efficiency by 15%
Conclusion
Dubai’s trade ecosystem shows no signs of slowing, with diversified partnerships and commodity flows driving steady growth. The emirate’s strategic investments in digital trade infrastructure and its position as a re-export hub ensure its continued relevance in global supply chains. With new trade agreements under negotiation, particularly in African and Southeast Asian markets, Dubai is well-positioned to maintain its trade leadership through 2025.
Data Sources: Dubai Customs, Dubai Statistics Centre, UAE Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre
Next Report Update: Q2 2025 (Scheduled for September 2025)
