Did you know that the UAE is one of the world's leading exporters, despite being a small country in terms of area? The UAE’s strategic location has made it a prime player in global trade. From crude oil to gold and high-tech electronics, the country exports billions of dollars' worth of goods annually, empowering economies around the world.

In 2024, the export sector of the UAE is still going strong, with its top export reaching over $62 billion. Crude oil remains the biggest contributor, but gold, aluminium, and petrochemicals are gaining significant growth. Here are the top 10 exported items of the UAE, along with their trade details sourced from the Ex-Im tool.
 

Top 10 Exported Goods of the UAE

Below are the statistics on the UAE’s top exported goods globally from February 2024 to 2025.

1. Crude Oil

Have you ever heard of black gold? This term is often used to regard crude oil because of its great monetary value. The UAE has one of the world's biggest crude reserves, making it a key supplier in the energy sector. Below are some key insights for new exporters looking to enter the UAE export market. 

• Total exported value: $62,225,372,169.75

• Exported from the UAE: India, Pakistan, the Philippines, and others

• Top Importers: Reliance Industries Ltd., Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd., Indian Oil Corporation Ltd.

• Major exporters: Litasco Middle East DMCC, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, Marion Commodity DMCC.

Why does crude oil remain in high demand?

Major oil-consuming countries like India, China, and Japan rely on UAE oil to meet their growing energy demands as well as their industrial and transportation needs, keeping it in high demand.

 2. Gold (Unwrought Form)

Since ancient times, gold has been a traditional symbol of wealth and stability. Dubai, which is called the "City of Gold," is at the hub of world bullion trade, making the UAE the leading exporter. Delve into the key insights of gold export from UAE:

• Total exported value: $24,244,695,916.62

• Exported from the UAE: India, Turkey, Indonesia & Others

• Top Importers: Sequel Logistics Pvt. Ltd., Malca Amit JK Logistics Pvt. Ltd., ICICI Bank Ltd.

• Major exporters: Stonex Financial Ltd., Vintage Bullion DMCC, Peekay Intermark Ltd. DMCC
  

What is the reason for high demand?

In many countries, gold is seen as an investment, and countries like India are considered to be the world's largest gold consumers due to cultural beliefs. These could be some of the reasons behind the product demand. UAE gold is also re-imported by Switzerland and Turkey for the purpose of resale and refining.

3. Petroleum Products 

Refined petroleum fuels industries all over the world, and therefore it is a critical export for the UAE. The country's refining capacity ranks it as a key player in the energy market. Below are the insights proving its high demand.

• Total exported value: $22,019,820,181.74

• Exported from the UAE: Uzbekistan, India, Pakistan & Others

• Top Importers: IP OOO SDK Group, Reliance Industrial Ltd., Compania Administ Del Mercado

• Major exporters: PJSC NK Rosneft through JSC, JSC RN Trans, Litasco Middle East DMCC

What could be the reason for the high demand?

Petroleum products are key resources in powering transport, industries, and electricity generation, making them an important resource for economic growth.

4. Diamonds (Unworked)

Dubai has been enthroned as a diamond trading hub, with international buyers and sellers coming from around the globe. The UAE supplies raw diamonds for cutting and polishing in overseas markets. Key insights from UAE exports:

• Total exported value: $6,684,182,527.6

• Exported from the UAE: India, Sri Lanka

• Top Importers: Kiran Gems Pvt. Ltd., Shree Ramkrishna Exports Pvt. Ltd., Hari Krishna Exports Pvt. Ltd.

• Major exporters: Stargems DMCC, SRK Exports DMCC, Rudra Diam DMCC

Why are they constantly in high demand?

High-value gems are cut from rough diamonds for jewelry and investment, making them a valued commodity in the global market. Their rarity and durability make them precious for luxury goods traders.

5. Smartphones

High consumer demand drives significant trade activity, specifically in the smartphone industry. As a major re-export, the UAE ships leading smartphone brands to global markets. Below are key data insights from UAE trade:

• Total exported value: $864,937,821.8

• Exported from the UAE: Uzbekistan, Russia, and India

• Top Importers: OOO Daily Mail, Jaamilov Iskandar Kamoliddin Ogli

• Major exporters: LLC International Partner, BM Electronics FZCO
  
  

What is the reason behind their high demand?

Growing demand for connectivity, digitalization, and 5G expansion has propelled smartphone usage, keeping them in relentless demand.

6. Unwrought Aluminium

Aluminium is the do-it-all metal that is used in producing applications from buildings to space. The UAE is playing a key role in exporting this product to the world market. Below are some listed key insights useful for new traders who are ready to step into the UAE export market:

• Total exported value: $850,166,113.99

• Exported from the UAE: Mexico, India, and Turkey

• Top Importers: Prime Wheel México S DE RLDE CV, ATC Vietnam Production and Trading Company ltd., CONMET DE Mexico SA DE CV

• Major exporters: Dubai Aluminium PJSC, Emirates Aluminium Company, Star Tradex FZ LLC

What is the reason behind the high demand?
Aluminum is light and corrosion-resistant and is required for making vehicles, buildings, and packaging materials. India and Japan have notably high demand for aluminium.

7. Jewellery and Other Articles

The UAE is a global hub for luxury goods, with Dubai’s high-end retailers driving jewelry exports. Below are key trade insights that are crucial for understanding the market:

• Total exported value: $387,532,413.79

• Exported from the UAE: India, Turkey, and Indonesia

• Top Importers: Brinks Security Services Joint Stock Company, Khanna Jewellers Pvt. Ltd., M. Sashi Badalia and Sons Pvt. Ltd.

• Major exporters: BIZ Thirteen Jewellery FZCO, Vivaa Jewellery Trading LLC, Bayt AL Karam Jewellery LLC

What is the reason behind the high demand?

Fine jewelry is desired for weddings, investment, and fashion, making them priceless possessions for many consumers. Alongside the UAE, Switzerland and Hong Kong are considered to be one of the biggest luxury markets.

8. Motor Vehicles Produced for Transport

The UAE re-exports a significant amount of vehicles due to its trade location position and free zones. Find the key trade insights essential for traders pioneering in the UAE market. 

• Total exported value: $337,012,788.08

• Exported from the UAE: Ghana, Uganda, and Tanzania

• Top importers: Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Pvt. Ltd., CFAO Mobility Uganda Ltd., CFAO Motors Uganda Ltd.

• Major exporters: Porsche Middle East and Africa FZE, Doubles Trading FZ LLC, AMS Middle East FZE

What could be the reason for its high demand?

Urbanization and infrastructure growth influence demand for passenger vehicles, SUVs, and trucks. This increase in consumer demand is driving the UAE to export motor vehicles across the globe.

9. Perfumes and Toilet Waters

Dubai is a leading exporter of high-end perfumes, keeping up with the Middle East's age-old perfume culture. Trade insights mentioned below will give a better understanding to the new exporters in the market:

• Total exported value: $162,755,906.21

• Exported from the UAE: India, Paraguay, and Chile

• Top Importers: LOREAL India Pvt Ltd, TARZ Distribution India Pvt Ltd, GAFA SA

• Major exporters: Parfums Christian Dior, LOREAL Middle East F.Z.E., Lattafa Perfumes Industries LLC

What could be the reason for its high demand? 

The Middle East loves perfumes, and its demand is driven by the consumers who remain consistent in using luxury brand perfume. An interesting fact concerning the perfumes is that France exports raw materials for the creation of luxury brands.

10. Cigarettes of Tobacco, Cigars, Cheroots

The UAE is one of the major exporters of tobacco products, with established manufacturing and distribution channels. Here are some key insights that traders should know about the UAE market:

• Total exported value: $90,363,884.32

• Exported from the UAE: Vietnam, Uganda, and Panama

• Top Importers: Mekongzon Company Ltd, Oriental Group Panama INC, Long An International Port Operation & Management Joint Stock Company

• Major exporters: BMJ Industries FZ LLC, Oriental General Trading FZE, Adam International FZCO 

How did the demand remain consistent?

Cigars and cigarettes are consumed everywhere across the region. Egypt's growing tobacco market helps in keeping up with the growing demands.

 

Wrap-Up

The UAE's export industry continues to boom, thanks to the recombination of traditional commodities like oil and new industries like drugs and electronics. Whether as an investor, a trader, or an entrepreneur, the UAE provides massive opportunities to tap the world market.

As a trader, how do I get access to real-time trade data? Ex-Im could be your ultimate destination for trade analysis. Get your updated charts, numbers, and analysis of the trade market with EXIM by The Dollar Business for precise and accurate data.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

1. How can I start an export business in the UAE?
You need to register your business, obtain an export license, and comply with trade regulations. 

2. What are the benefits of UAE free zones for exporters?
Free zones offer tax benefits, full foreign ownership, and simplified customs procedures. 

3. Which UAE exports have the highest global demand?
Petroleum products, gold, and diamonds are among the most in-demand exports. 

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