Abu Dhabi's non-oil foreign trade surged by 34.7% year-on-year in the first half of this year, reaching Dh195.4 billion ($53.2 billion), reflecting the emirate's ongoing economic growth supported by diversification initiatives and government efforts.

According to statistics from Abu Dhabi Customs, reported by the Abu Dhabi Media Office on Sunday, exports rose by 64% to Dh78.5 billion, imports increased by 15% to Dh80 billion, and re-exports climbed by 35%, surpassing Dh36 billion.

“The growth in non-oil foreign trade during the first half of 2025 reflects the success of Abu Dhabi’s economic strategies, and highlights the effectiveness of efforts made by Abu Dhabi Customs, in collaboration with strategic partners, to facilitate trade,” stated Rashed Al Mansoori, director general of the General Administration of Abu Dhabi Customs.

“These efforts are driven by the adoption of advanced systems, innovations, and digital technologies.”

Abu Dhabi’s economy grew by 3.8% year-on-year in 2024, reaching a record high of Dh1.2 trillion, according to a May report from state news agency Wam.

During the same period, the non-oil sector expanded by 6.2% to Dh644.3 billion, contributing its highest-ever share to the emirate’s total GDP at 54.7%, Wam said, citing data from the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi has maintained its push to diversify away from oil by implementing various initiatives aimed at attracting global investors, enhancing competitiveness, and simplifying business operations.

Indeed, in 2022, the emirate introduced an industrial strategy focused on strengthening the sector’s role in the economy, committing Dh10 billion across six key programs with the goal of more than doubling manufacturing output to Dh172 billion by 2031, The National reports.

In addition, Abu Dhabi aims to increase the tourism sector's share of its GDP from 5% in 2023 to 12% by 2030. The emirate has also outlined long-term plans to advance key industries such as aviation and technology, supported by new investments in artificial intelligence.