Urooj Niazi 
uae foreign trade hits $1.42 trillion mark in 2024
Domestic-Flows UAE foreign trade reaches AED 5.23 trillion in 2024
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said on platform X that the foreign trade of the UAE had amounted to AED 5.23 trillion ($1.42 trillion) in 2024. This is a substantial growth of 49% over 2021 and includes a trade surplus of AED 492.3 billion ($134 billion).
Exports of goods stood at AED 2.22 trillion, which is an increase of 6% from the previous year. Service exports were composed of goods worth AED 646.6 billion — of which AED 191 billion were for digital services — representing greater strength in innovation and technology for the UAE.
Digital Services Exports: Regional Impact
According to the WTO’s figures, the share of the UAE in total merchandise exports in the Middle East is 41%. It is 11th in the world for goods exports and 13th for services exports. 21st in global digital service exports, primarily through efforts in digital transformation and tech-based sectors.
Sheikh Mohammed attributed the progress of the nation to its open trade policies, creating bridges globally, and promoting free movement of goods and people. He declared that this advancement will be sustained in the years ahead under the leadership of the President of the UAE, with strength and stability.
The UAE continues to be a significant market for trade through the Middle East, extending toward Africa and Asia, serving as a sturdy bridge connecting East and West.
