N環球 
Dubai economic zones post record AED 246 billion H1 trade, up 17%
The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) recorded AED 246 billion in H1 2026 trade, up 17% year-on-year — a sixth consecutive record first half; China remains the top partner at AED 69.8 billion.
Why it matters
Dubai's Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed commended the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) on October 18 for a record performance: total trade across its three economic zones reached AED 246 billion (about $67 billion) in the first half of 2026, up 17% from a year earlier — a sixth consecutive year of record first-half trade, signalling investor confidence in Dubai's hub status amid global trade turbulence.
Key points
Imports rose to AED 134.8 billion (+14%), re-exports to about AED 108.8 billion (+22%), and direct exports to about AED 2.4 billion. Machinery, equipment and electrical equipment accounted for roughly 66% of total trade, while precious stones, precious metals, jewellery and ornaments contributed about 30% (+18%) — the two groups together about 96%.
China remained DIEZ's largest trading partner at AED 69.8 billion (28.4%), followed by Saudi Arabia at AED 26.5 billion (10.8%), India at AED 17.6 billion (7.2%) and Vietnam at AED 13.2 billion (5.4%).
Sheikh Hamdan said competition in global trade is no longer decided by volumes alone, but by whether hubs can keep trade flowing, maintain resilient supply chains and respond swiftly to change. DIEZ handled about 270,000 tonnes in H1; integrated logistics across its zones helped businesses adapt to shifts in shipping routes.
Full report
DIEZ oversees several economic zones including Dubai Airport Freezone. Despite challenges to trade flows and supply chains, Dubai's advanced infrastructure, logistics efficiency and flexible business environment continue to cement its position as a global trade hub.
Sources: Emirates News Agency WAM (2026-10-18), Virgin Radio Dubai.
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