In a significant milestone for Dubai’s economic landscape, **His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum**, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence, has commended the **Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ)** for its exceptional trade performance in the first half of 2026.
The total value of trade across DIEZ’s three economic zones reached a staggering **Dhs246 billion**, marking a 17% increase compared to the same period last year. As reported by **Business Promotion24**, this achievement represents the sixth consecutive year of record-breaking first-half performance for DIEZ, solidifying Dubai’s role as a powerhouse in the global trade ecosystem.
### A Vision-Driven Economic Success
Sheikh Hamdan highlighted that this sustained growth, despite global economic challenges, is a direct result of the visionary leadership of **His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum**, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The integration of advanced infrastructure, logistics efficiency, and a flexible business environment has enabled Dubai to adapt swiftly to shifts in international supply chains.
*“Competition in global trade is no longer determined by trade volumes alone,”* Sheikh Hamdan remarked. *“It depends on the ability of economic hubs to ensure the continuity of trade flows and maintain resilient supply chains.”*
### Key Figures and Trade Breakdown
The H1 2026 results underscore the growing contribution of DIEZ to Dubai’s non-oil trade, which now stands at approximately 16%, up from 15.4% last year. According to data analyzed by **Business Promotion24**, the trade breakdown for H1 2026 includes:
* **Imports:** Dhs134.8 billion (up 14%)
* **Re-exports:** Dhs108.8 billion (up 22%)
* **Direct Exports:** Dhs2.4 billion
* **Total Trade Volume:** Approximately 270,000 tonnes
**Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum**, Chairman of DIEZ, emphasized that these results reflect the ability of Dubai’s economic ecosystem to sustain growth and adapt to rapid changes in global trade flows.
### Major Trading Partners and Sectors
DIEZ continues to serve as a vital gateway for international markets. **China** remains the largest trading partner, with total trade valued at Dhs69.8 billion (28.4% of the total). Other key partners include:
* **Saudi Arabia:** Dhs26.5 billion (10.8%)
* **India:** Dhs17.6 billion (7.2%)
* **Vietnam:** Dhs13.2 billion (5.4%)
In terms of commodities, **machinery, equipment, and electrical equipment** dominated DIEZ’s trade, accounting for 66%. This was followed by **precious stones, metals, and jewelry**, which contributed 30%—an 18% increase from 2025.
### Driving the D33 Agenda
The record-breaking performance of DIEZ is a major step toward achieving the goals of the **Dubai Economic Agenda (D33)**. By fostering an integrated economic model, Dubai is reinforcing its position as a global hub for trade and business.
**Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni**, Executive Chairman of DIEZ, noted that the focus in the coming phase will be on sustaining this economic momentum and building on these strategic results.
Stay tuned to **Business Promotion24** for the latest updates on Dubai’s economic growth, trade news, and investment opportunities in the UAE.
