The UAE has introduced a new international economic programme designed to attract the world’s leading trading companies, expand access for local exporters, and reinforce the country’s role as a central hub in global commerce. The initiative comes as the nation records strong foreign-trade growth and rising service-export activity.
A new programme targeting the world’s top trading firms
The UAE announced the launch of an international economic programme aimed at bringing 1,000 of the world’s top companies specialising in international trade into the country. The initiative was revealed on Thursday by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE’s Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, through a statement on his X account.In his message, Sheikh Mohammed explained that the programme is designed to strengthen the UAE’s global standing in foreign trade and expand the country’s economic partnerships. The plan specifically focuses on attracting high-performing international trade firms that can integrate into the UAE’s commercial ecosystem and stimulate investment and export activity.
Digital gateway to connect UAE exporters with global markets
A core component of the programme is the creation of a digital gateway that will link thousands of UAE exporting companies directly to markets worldwide. This platform is intended to widen international access for UAE-based producers and service providers, offering new channels through which they can promote and distribute their goods.Sheikh Mohammed emphasised that this gateway is expected to generate greater opportunities for UAE exporters by helping them enter new markets and expand their presence on global trade routes. The initiative aims not only to support existing exporters but also to encourage more companies within the UAE to engage in cross-border trade.
Reinforcing the UAE’s position in global trade routes
In outlining the programme, Sheikh Mohammed stated that these efforts collectively reinforce the UAE’s role as an important hub on international trade routes. The announcements reflect the country’s ongoing strategy to position itself as an advanced centre for trade facilitation, logistics, and globally integrated commerce.The initiative aligns with the UAE’s long-term economic direction, which involves cultivating international partnerships, investing in digital trade tools, and increasing the contribution of exports, both goods and services, to the overall economy.
Foreign trade performance reaches new heights
The country’s trade performance in 2024 set the backdrop for the new programme’s launch. The UAE recorded Dh5.23 trillion in foreign trade during the year, representing a 49% increase from Dh3.5 trillion (USD 949 billion) in 2021. This growth highlights the strong momentum in the UAE’s trading activity and the expanding scale of its global commercial relationships.Service exports also showed notable strength. In 2024, they reached Dh650 billion, a figure that underscores the increasing importance of non-goods trade. Within this category, digital services accounted for Dh191 billion, representing 30% of all service exports. These numbers point to the rising role of technology-driven sectors in the UAE’s trade profile.
