Dubai-India Non-Oil Trade Reaches Record Dh222.5 Billion in 2025

This surge in trade signifies a robust economic partnership that can influence market dynamics and investment flows in the region.

• Dubai-India non-oil trade reached Dh222.5 billion in 2025, marking a 136.2% increase from Dh94.2 billion in 2016.
• Trade grew 35% since the UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) took effect in May 2022, reflecting enhanced market access.
• Indian companies in Dubai surged to 85,841 by June 2026, contributing to job creation and economic diversification.

• CEPA reduced trade barriers, facilitating smoother transactions and investment flows between the UAE and India.
• Longstanding ties between the two nations, including a significant expatriate community, have laid the groundwork for this growth.
• Investment in technology and services sectors is expanding, indicating a shift towards more innovative economic activities.

The record non-oil trade between Dubai and India is a result of strategic economic initiatives and a favorable geopolitical landscape. The UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), effective from May 2022, has played a pivotal role in this transformation. By reducing tariffs and trade barriers, CEPA has enhanced market access for both countries, allowing businesses to operate more efficiently and profitably.

The numbers tell a compelling story: non-oil trade has more than doubled over the past decade, reaching Dh222.5 billion in 2025. This growth is not just a statistical anomaly; it reflects a broader trend of increasing bilateral investment flows. Indian companies have established a significant presence in Dubai, with registrations climbing to 85,841 by mid-2026. This influx of businesses is not only boosting trade but also creating jobs—over 55,000 new positions have been generated through reciprocal investments.

The sectors driving this growth are diverse, with technology, fintech, and services leading the charge. As Dubai positions itself as a global hub for innovation, Indian businesses are increasingly tapping into this potential. The expansion into Agentic AI and deep tech indicates a shift towards more advanced industries, which could reshape the economic landscape of both nations.

Moreover, the confidence expressed by Indian businesses in Dubai underscores the emirate's appeal as a strategic location for trade and investment. The ongoing expansion of specialized training programs and incubators aims to foster innovation and collaboration, further solidifying the UAE-India partnership.

As both countries target a bilateral trade goal of $200 billion by 2032, the implications for businesses and investors are significant. The focus on emerging technologies and market access will likely create new opportunities, making it essential for stakeholders to stay informed and agile in this evolving landscape.

• Business Owners: Entrepreneurs in both Dubai and India can capitalize on new trade opportunities and market access.
• Investors: Those in technology and services sectors may see increased returns due to rising demand and investment.
• Job Seekers: The creation of over 55,000 jobs will benefit skilled workers in various industries, particularly in tech and services.

• Continued growth in Indian company registrations: Monitoring the number of new Indian businesses in Dubai will indicate ongoing economic confidence and investment potential.
• Expansion of CEPA benefits: Any new agreements or enhancements to CEPA could further stimulate trade and investment flows.
• Emerging technology investments: Watch for trends in funding and development within the fintech and deep tech sectors, as these will shape future economic interactions.