The UAE has unveiled an ambitious international economic programme designed to attract the world’s leading 1,000 companies specialising in international trade. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of
Dubai announced the UAE Global Centre of Trade initiative, positioning the Emirates as a premier hub for global commerce.
UAE Global Centre of Trade: Eight Strategic Initiatives
The programme targets attracting 1,000 new international trading companies to establish headquarters in the UAE by analysing markets and sectors in high demand. The Ministry of Foreign Trade will lead implementation in partnership with government agencies, national institutions, and private-sector companies.
The timing is significant. In the first nine months of 2025, non-oil trade reached Dh2.67 trillion, a 24.6 per cent increase year on year, while non-oil exports reached Dh579.4 billion during the same period, up 42.6 per cent. These impressive figures demonstrate the UAE’s growing strength in international commerce.
Digital Gateway Connecting Exporters to Global Markets
A cornerstone of the programme is the UAE Export Portal, a digital platform that will connect thousands of Emirati exporters directly with international buyers and markets. This integrated system will enable exporters to access global opportunities more quickly and efficiently than ever before.
The Ready2Trade initiative complements this digital infrastructure by delivering online and offline training modules to build capacity for more than 10,000 companies in the UAE. This comprehensive training programme ensures businesses have the skills needed to compete effectively on the global stage.
Developing the Next Generation of Emirati Traders
The UAE Traders of the Future Programme will prepare a new generation of Emirati traders by developing the skills and confidence needed to compete globally, seeking to graduate 100 qualified Emirati traders annually. Additionally, the Young Traders Programme will engage high school and university students in trade opportunities, building a pipeline of talent for the future.
These educational initiatives ensure that Emiratis are positioned at the forefront of the country’s trade expansion, creating sustainable career opportunities in international commerce.
Showcasing UAE Excellence on the Global Stage
UAE Trade Days will be organised in select countries to showcase UAE products and services and develop sustainable customer-buyer networks. These promotional events create direct connections between Emirati businesses and international partners.
The UAE International Trade Expo will aim to attract 600 companies from 50 countries, with a total of 100,000 visitors, creating an international platform of interaction between importers and exporters. This major event positions the UAE as a central meeting point for global trade.
Strengthening the UAE’s Position as a Global Trade Hub
Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, explained that the programme reflects the UAE leadership’s belief that trade is an essential catalyst of economic growth, development and diversification. The initiatives will ensure the UAE captures an ever-increasing share of international commerce while offering new horizons for exporters and comprehensive benefits for companies seeking platforms for international expansion.
The programme leverages the UAE’s strategic position at a global crossroad, utilising AI to identify new markets and high-potential sectors while promoting private-sector excellence worldwide. This comprehensive approach demonstrates the country’s ability to power the next stage of global prosperity.
The launch of this ambitious programme confirms the UAE’s commitment to remaining at the forefront of international trade and reinforces its role as an essential gateway for global commerce.
