Dubai’s non-oil foreign trade jumped 31 percent in the first half as the Middle East’s business hub prepares to host one of the world’s biggest in-person events since the pandemic started.
Non-oil trade climbed to AED722.3 billion ($197bn) from AED550.6bn a year ago, according to a statement. China maintained its position as Dubai’s biggest trading partner, followed by India, the U.S., Saudi Arabia and Switzerland.
“This marked growth in trade demonstrates the success of Dubai’s strategic plan to consolidate its position as a global logistics and trade hub that connects the world’s diverse markets,” Crown Prince Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said. “Dubai’s existing sea and air network will be expanded to cover 200 new cities around the world.”
Dubai’s foreign trade recorded a strong 31% growth during the first half of 2021 reaching AED722 billion. We continue to strengthen ties with the world in line with @HHShkMohd’s vision to raise foreign trade to AED 2 trillion over the next 5 years.
— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) September 26, 2021
Dubai, which has little oil, is the Middle East’s top trading destination. The city is opening up to visitors for the World Expo from next month and expects the event to attract 25 million visits – both virtually and in person.
The crown prince said Dubai is continuing to work toward raising foreign trade to 2 trillion dirhams over the next five years.
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