In 2025, the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) achieved unprecedented success, with an impressive total trade volume of around AED 491 billion. This remarkable growth, marking five consecutive years of upturn, highlights the thriving trade activity and robust movement of goods within the region.

Remarkable Growth and Trade Dynamics

The increase in DIEZ’s total trade value rose by 46% compared to the previous year, illustrating the authority’s significant growth since 2020, where the value has quadrupled. This consistent rise in trade is primarily driven by a surge in imports, marking the third year in a row that imports have been the principal catalyst for growth.

DIEZ has made a notable impact on Dubai’s non-oil trade, enhancing its share to 16% as the emirate’s overall external trade surpassed the AED 3 trillion milestone. This performance showcases DIEZ’s crucial role in strengthening Dubai’s economic footprint, particularly in the non-oil sector, which is central to the city’s economic agenda.

Leadership Praise and Visionary Goals

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s Crown Prince and Chairman of The Executive Council, commended the outstanding results achieved by DIEZ. He emphasized that this achievement reflects the vibrant economic environment cultivated under the leadership of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He further acknowledged how Dubai constantly adapts to global economic trends and transforms challenges into new business opportunities, enhancing the emirate’s global trade reputation.

Moreover, these results epitomize the faith businesses and investors have in Dubai’s solid economic foundations and world-class infrastructure. The remarkable performance underscores the important role of Dubai’s economic zones in fostering both regional and international trade, contributing significantly to sustainable economic growth.

Trade Volume and Sector Contributions

Total trade volume experienced a dramatic increase of 50%, reaching approximately 667,800 tons in 2025. This significant rise is indicative of true growth in commercial activity and cargo movement, rather than merely price-driven changes. H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the Chairman of DIEZ, reinforced the notion that such a robust economic model relies on sustained growth through value-added activities and integration with contemporary technological advancements.

DIEZ’s trade landscape is primarily led by the machinery, electrical equipment, and electronics sector, contributing over 70% to the total trade and experiencing a 42% growth rate. Additionally, the precious stones and metals sector saw a substantial increase of 71%, accounting for roughly 26% of DIEZ’s overall trade. Collectively, these sectors represent a staggering 96% of total trade activity, highlighting their importance to DIEZ’s ongoing success.

Global Partnerships and Future Prospects

China remains the largest trading partner for DIEZ, comprising 28.7% of total trade, followed by Saudi Arabia with a 9.6% growth rate and India with 8%. These trading relationships reflect DIEZ’s ability to adapt to the shifting global trade landscape, reinforcing its status as a vital component of Dubai’s non-oil trade system.

Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ, remarked that the solid growth figures demonstrate a legitimate expansion in trade rather than reliance on temporary price fluctuations. By diversifying trading partners and enhancing supply chains, DIEZ is poised to capitalize on emerging opportunities, particularly stronger ties with neighboring countries such as Saudi Arabia. Overall, the ongoing success of DIEZ serves as a pivotal cornerstone for Dubai’s economic landscape, ensuring long-term competitiveness and resilience in a rapidly changing global market.