Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) reached another record in trade performance in the first half of 2026, with total trade value across its three economic zones hitting AED246 billion ($66.98 billion), marking a 17 percent rise from the same timeframe last year.
The results represented DIEZ's sixth straight year of record trade performance in the first half, showcasing the trust of investors and international trade participants in Dubai's and the UAE's central role in global commerce.
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Praising the accomplishment, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, noted that the ongoing growth despite challenges to global trade illustrates the robustness of Dubai's economic and logistics framework, developed under the guidance and vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, as well as its ability to ensure business continuity and adjust to changes in global supply chains.
Sheikh Hamdan says, “Competition in global trade is no longer determined by trade volumes alone. Increasingly, it depends on the ability of economic hubs to ensure the continuity of trade flows, maintain resilient supply chains, and respond swiftly to change. Guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Dubai has established an integrated economic model that combines advanced infrastructure, logistics efficiency, and a flexible business environment, strengthening its ability to adapt to global developments.”
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Sheikh Hamdan adds, “The results achieved by Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority in the first half of the year underscore the importance of integration between economic zones and logistics services in supporting trade flows and connecting markets. They also reflect continued progress towards achieving the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, and reinforcing Dubai's position as a global hub for trade and business.”
Sheikh Hamdan also commended the work of the Authority's team, headed by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, highlighting the necessity of further enhancing the economic and logistical capacities that bolster Dubai's competitiveness and reinforce its position in global trade.
The exceptional trade performance bolstered DIEZ’s role in Dubai’s non-oil trade in the first half of the year, raising its share to around 16 percent, up from 15.4 percent in the same timeframe last year. This indicates the increasing significance of DIEZ’s economic zones in enhancing Dubai’s status as a worldwide hub for trade, investment, and economic development.
The worth of imports in H1 2026 increased to AED134.8 billion, reflecting a 14 percent rise compared to the same timeframe last year, whereas re-exports surged by 22 percent to around AED108.8 billion. Direct exports amounted to about AED2.4 billion. Trade volumes hit around 270,000 tonnes in the first half of the year, while they were about 298,000 tonnes in the same timeframe in 2025.
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This achievement was realized despite obstacles impacting trade movements and supply networks. The incorporation of logistics capabilities throughout DIEZ’s economic zones facilitated the maintenance of trade flows and allowed businesses to adjust to alterations in shipping routes.
Machinery, equipment, and electrical devices made up around 66 percent of DIEZ’s overall trade in the first half of the year, whereas precious stones, precious metals, jewelry, and ornaments accounted for roughly 30 percent, reflecting an 18 percent rise compared to the same time frame in 2025. Combined, the two groups represented around 96 percent of the Authority's overall trade.