UAE Strengthens Global Trade Network with 38 New Economic Partnerships, Achieving AED1.937 Trillion in Non-Oil Trade
Abu Dhabi: The United Arab Emirates is actively enhancing its economic and trade partnerships on a global scale, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to bolster the national economy. In the first half of 2026, non-oil foreign trade reached AED1.937 trillion, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to diversifying export markets and reinforcing its position as a global trade and investment hub.
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) on the Rise
Since the inception of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) program in September 2021, the UAE has signed a total of 38 agreements. These agreements span various markets across Asia, Africa, Europe, and beyond. A growing number of these CEPAs have come into effect, allowing UAE businesses to enjoy improved market access, reduced customs duties, and lower trade barriers.
The expansion of the UAE’s partnership network is particularly noteworthy as it coincides with record levels of non-oil foreign trade. Non-oil exports have also seen substantial growth, reaching approximately AED452.8 billion, indicative of the increasing range of activities and products associated with the country’s foreign trade.
Trade Dynamics and Economic Impact
Data indicates that trade with countries where CEPAs have been implemented reached approximately AED304.3 billion in the first half of the year. UAE exports to these markets amounted to around AED66.1 billion, highlighting their rising significance within the UAE’s overall foreign trade framework.
The UAE’s CEPA initiative extends beyond traditional trading partners, reflecting a strategic effort to diversify its economic relationships and explore new avenues for exports and investments. Key markets in Asia include India, Indonesia, and Türkiye, while in Europe, the agreements cover nations such as Ukraine and Serbia. The program is also gaining traction in Africa, with ongoing negotiations and agreements involving countries like Kenya, Gabon, and the Republic of the Congo.
Recent Developments in African Partnerships
Recent agreements with African nations underscore the UAE’s commitment to strengthening trade and private-sector collaboration. The UAE-Gabon CEPA aims to enhance cooperation and facilitate investments across various sectors, including agriculture, logistics, and renewable energy. Similarly, the UAE-Republic of the Congo CEPA seeks to capitalize on the growth of non-oil bilateral trade, fostering long-term partnerships and investment opportunities.
In East Africa, the UAE and Kenya have signed a CEPA designed to bolster trade and investment ties, improving market access between the Middle East and East African regions.
European Market Engagement
In Europe, the UAE-Ukraine CEPA took effect on July 1, 2026, creating new opportunities for trade, investment, and private-sector cooperation between the two nations. The UAE-Serbia CEPA has also been implemented, facilitating the liberalization or reduction of tariffs across a substantial number of tariff lines.
India, one of the first countries to establish a CEPA with the UAE, exemplifies the potential of these agreements to stimulate bilateral trade growth. Non-oil trade between the UAE and India reached AED107.5 billion during the first half of 2026.
Continued Expansion and Future Prospects
The UAE’s network of partnerships continues to grow. In July 2026, negotiations with Canada concluded on a CEPA, marking the shortest timeframe recorded under the program. Bilateral trade between the UAE and Canada reached approximately US$4.2 billion in 2025, reflecting a 21% increase compared to the previous year.
These developments align with the ongoing growth of the UAE’s non-oil foreign trade, which reached AED3.8 trillion in 2025, a growth rate exceeding 26%. Non-oil exports also surged by more than 45%, emphasizing the UAE’s focus on linking trade agreements with enhanced export capacity across various industrial sectors.
Participants at the Make it in the Emirates 2026 event emphasized the role of the CEPA program in facilitating access to both mature and emerging markets for UAE products, services, and advanced industrial exports.
Strategic Framework for Global Trade
The CEPA agreements are part of a broader strategy aimed at solidifying the UAE’s position within global trade and supply chains. The country leverages its advanced logistics infrastructure, including ports and free zones, to connect Asian, African, and European markets effectively.
The expanding network of agreements is creating enhanced opportunities for the UAE’s private sector to diversify export destinations, access new markets, and benefit from lower tariffs and improved market conditions. This strategic approach is set to establish robust investment and production partnerships in various partner countries.
Source: www.emirates247.com
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Published on 2026-08-15 06:02:00 • By the Editorial Desk
