Abu Dhabi’s non-oil foreign trade touches Dhs306bn in 2024
Non-oil exports surged 16 per cent year-on-year to Dhs107.8bn in 2024, compared to Dhs93bn in the previous year
Abu Dhabi Customs reported a 9 per cent rise in the emirate’s non-oil foreign trade in 2024, reaching Dhs306bn, up from Dhs281.9bn in 2023, underlining the strength of the emirate’s economy and its expanding global trade ties.
Non-oil exports surged 16 per cent year-on-year to Dhs107.8bn in 2024, compared to Dhs93bn in the previous year.
Re-exports increased by 11 per cent to over Dhs58bn, up from Dhs52.4bn, while imports rose 3 per cent to Dhs140.2bn, compared with Dhs 136.4bn in 2023.
Abu Dhabi Customs attributed the growth to the emirate’s business-friendly ecosystem, proactive policies, and initiatives designed to streamline trade, reduce costs, and integrate government services more effectively.
Customs declarations in 2024 rose by 3 per cent from the previous year.
Transactions conducted through digital platforms grew by 17 per cent, while proactive and automated transactions recorded a 31 per cent increase, accounting for a substantial share of overall customs activity.
Rashed Lahej Al Mansoori, director general of Abu Dhabi Customs, said the continued growth in non-oil foreign trade demonstrates the emirate’s rising stature as a global business and trade hub.
Rising non-0il foreign trade marks Abu Dhabi as key trade hub
“Abu Dhabi continues to achieve significant growth in non-oil foreign trade, reinforcing the emirate’s status as a rising economic powerhouse and a global hub for business, trade and investment,” Al Mansoori said.
He reaffirmed Abu Dhabi Customs’ commitment to supporting the emirate’s economic goals through enhanced customs efficiency, cutting-edge technologies, and strong collaboration with strategic partners. “These efforts strengthen the national economy and support the UAE’s sustainable development journey,” he added.
Abdulla Gharib Al Qemzi, director general of the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi, highlighted the critical role played by trade data in shaping policy decisions. “By leveraging accurate and reliable trade data, we enable decision-makers to develop policies that support sustainable economic growth and align with the emirate’s long-term vision.”
Al Qemzi noted that emirate’s non-oil economy grew by 6.2 per cent in 2024, reflecting its adaptability amid global challenges and reinforcing its status as a dynamic economic hub.
