International Trade

Key Initiatives

Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements

Through the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) program, the UAE is breaking down trade barriers around the world and positioning itself as a global hub for international commerce. The country is located within an eight-hour flight of two-thirds of the world's population, easily offering access to a market of over two billion people. Since signing its first CEPA with India in 2022, the UAE has now concluded or is in negotiations with 24 countries ranging from South Korea and Indonesia to Turkey and Chile.

Free Trade Zones

The UAE offers more than 40 multidisciplinary free zones in which expatriates and foreign investors can have full ownership of companies. These free zones are characterized by their highly efficient infrastructure and distinct services that facilitate smooth workflows, saving businesses considerable time and effort. Since establishing the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) in 1985, the UAE has gone on to establish many others, including the Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD) and the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ). Today, these free zones contribute to approximately 40% of the country’s total exports.

Future Outlook

In 2021, the UAE set an ambitious goal of reaching AED 4 trillion in annual foreign trade by 2031. By the end of 2024, it had achieved 75% of that target. As the UAE signs more CEPAs, expands its free trade zones and enables trade flows through multilateral initiatives, its foreign trade continues to outpace global figures, including non-oil trade with partners around the world.