Dubai, UAE – The UAE economy maintained its strong external performance during 2025, after the current account of the balance of payments recorded a surplus of 300.2 billion dirhams. Equivalent to 13.3% of GDP, as a result of accelerating import growth, driven by strong domestic demand. And increasing investments, according to a report issued by the UAE Central Bank.
The UAE Central Bank report explained that the continued recording of a large current account surplus reflects the strength of the national economy. Its ability to achieve a balance between internal growth and the sustainability of external surpluses. Foreign trade, the services sector, and foreign investment returns continued to provide strong support to the external sector, despite the increase in personal transfers abroad.
Leap in commodity exports
Commodity exports recorded a noticeable jump over the past year, rising to 2.06 trillion dirhams, compared to 1.71 trillion dirhams in 2024. Equivalent to more than 91% of GDP, confirming the UAE’s position as a global trade center.
In contrast, imports rose to 1.84 trillion dirhams, as a result of strong economic activity. Investment and consumer spending increased, bringing the goods trade surplus to 213.5 billion dirhams.
Strong performance of the services sector
The services sector also continued its strong performance, maintaining its role as one of the most important drivers of external surplus, with its surplus rising to 238.4 billion dirhams. Supported by the growth of tourism revenues, which raised the surplus of the “travel” item to 156.1 billion dirhams, in addition to increasing the transportation surplus to 75.6 billion dirhams. Thanks to the continued expansion of the aviation and logistics sectors.
Meanwhile, the primary income surplus rose to AED 126.6 billion, driven by increased returns from investments by residents abroad. Reflecting the expansion of the state’s external financial assets, the secondary income deficit rose to AED 278.3 billion. As a result of the increase in personal transfers abroad, this did not affect the continuation of the current account within comfortable surplus levels.
overseas investment
On the financial account front, the data showed that economic surpluses continued to be directed towards investment abroad. Net outflow amounted to AED 362.6 billion, reflecting residents’ continued increase in their foreign investments through direct investment. And investments in portfolios and other financial instruments, in conjunction with the continued flow of foreign investments into the country.
The report indicated that foreign reserves continued to grow during 2025, rising by 166.6 billion dirhams. This enhances the national economy’s ability to cope with global fluctuations and supports financial stability. At a time when the UAE continues to consolidate its position as a global center for trade, investment, services and tourism. Supported by a strong economic base. And an external sector with high levels of flexibility and sustainability.
