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Arabian Business
04-08-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Abu Dhabi sees growth in non-oil foreign trade in the first half of 2025
When the global economy showed signs of softening in mid‑2025, Abu Dhabi's non‑oil foreign trade did the opposite. According to released figures, Abu Dhabi Customs reported that trade in goods unrelated to hydrocarbons surged 34.7 per cent in the first half of the year, rising from AED 145 billion in the first half of 2024 to AED 195.4 billion in January to June 2025. The breakdown tells an equally compelling story. Non‑oil exports jumped 64 per cent to AED 78.5 billion (from AED 47.9 billion), imports increased 15 per cent to AED 80 billion, and re‑exports climbed 35 per cent to over AED 36 billion, up from AED 26.6 billion a year earlier. Abu Dhabi's non-oil foreign trade grew by 34.7% in the first half of 2025, reaching AED 195.4 billion. This growth highlights the success of economic diversification efforts, the efficiency of infrastructure, and the seamless movement of goods, reinforcing the emirate's position… — Abu Dhabi Customs جمارك أبوظبي (@AbuDhabiCustoms) August 3, 2025 Their growth underscores more than just numbers; it signals a strategic structural shift. Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), emphasised this by stating, the emirate's non-oil foreign trade steady performance in H1 2025 reaffirms our position as a global economic powerhouse, bridging East and West, North and South. Our consistent growth, amid the challenges in the international trade and global economy, reflects the strengths of our long-term economic planning, decisive policy execution, and our commitment to enabling fair and free exchange of goods, services, and innovations'. Al Zaabi added, 'We are doubling down our efforts to position Abu Dhabi among the world's most business-ready economies by streamlining trade procedures, deploying smart systems, and integrating services to enhance flow and accelerate efficiency, cementing Abu Dhabi's position as a global trade and investment centre and a key node on international supply chains.' Rashed Lahej Al Mansoori, Director-General of Abu Dhabi Customs, said, '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. These efforts are driven by the adoption of advanced systems, innovations, and digital technologies.' He emphasised the continued commitment to developing a proactive and agile customs ecosystem that supports global supply chains and enhances the emirate's competitiveness as a regional and international hub for trade and business. 'Abu Dhabi Customs remains dedicated to delivering best-in-class services and procedures that accelerate customs clearance and promote integration with both local and international partners, thereby supporting sustainable growth, enabling the future economy, and reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position on the global trade map,' Al Mansoori concluded.
Zawya
04-08-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Abu Dhabi's non-oil foreign trade grew 34.7% in H1 2025
ABU DHABI: The Abu Dhabi's non-oil foreign trade continued its growth trajectory, recording a strong performance during the first half of current year (From January to June 2025), soaring 34.7% to AED195.4 billion compared to AED145 billion during the corresponding period in 2024, according to statistics released Today by Abu Dhabi Customs. This growth reflects the resilience and dynamism of Abu Dhabi's economy, supported by the efficiency of its infrastructure and the advancement of logistics services, which have helped facilitate trade flows and enhance the smooth movement of goods through border crossings. During the first six months of 2025, the Abu Dhabi's non-oil exports grew by 64%, reaching AED78.5 billion, up from AED47.9 billion in H1-2024. Imports rose by 15% to AED80 billion, compared to AED70 billion. Meanwhile, re-exports registered a 35% increase, surpassing AED36 billion, compared to AED26.6 billion in the first half of 2024. The increase in non-oil foreign trade volume underscores the strength of Abu Dhabi's economic diversification strategies, forward-looking policies, and significant investments across key sectors. These efforts collectively support the emirate's drive to strengthen its position as a leading regional and global trade and logistics hub. Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), said, 'Abu Dhabi's non-oil foreign trade steady performance in H1- 2025 reaffirms our position as a global economic powerhouse, bridging East and West, North and South. Our consistent growth, amid the challenges in the international trade and global economy, reflects the strengths of our long-term economic planning, decisive policy execution, and our commitment to enabling fair and free exchange of goods, services, and innovations'. Al Zaabi added, 'We are doubling down our efforts to position Abu Dhabi among the world's most business-ready economies by streamlining trade procedures, deploying smart systems, and integrating services to enhance flow and accelerate efficiency, cementing Abu Dhabi's position as global trade and investment centre and a key node on international supply chains." Rashed Lahej Al Mansoori, Director-General of Abu Dhabi Customs, said, '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. These efforts are driven by the adoption of advanced systems, innovations, and digital technologies." He emphasised the continued commitment to developing a proactive and agile customs ecosystem that supports global supply chains and enhances the emirate's competitiveness as a regional and international hub for trade and business. 'Abu Dhabi Customs remains dedicated to delivering best-in-class services and procedures that accelerate customs clearance and promote integration with both local and international partners, thereby supporting sustainable growth, enabling the future economy, and reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position on the global trade map,' Al Mansoori concluded.
Arabian Business
04-07-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Abu Dhabi GDP hits $79.2bn in Q1 2025 as non-oil economy surges 6.1%
Abu Dhabi's economy continues to show strong momentum in 2025, with Gross Domestic Product (GDP) reaching AED291bn ($79.2bn) in the first quarter—a 3.4 per cent increase compared to Q1 2024, according to the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi (SCAD). Driving this growth is the emirate's expanding non-oil economy, which surged 6.1 per cent year-on-year to AED163.6bn ($44.5bn). For the first time ever in a Q1 period, non-oil sectors contributed 56.2 per cent of total GDP, underscoring Abu Dhabi's continued economic diversification efforts. Abu Dhabi economy The oil sector accounted for the remaining 43.8 per cent, or AED127.4bn ($34.7bn). Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), said: 'Day after day, Abu Dhabi's economy is reaffirming the success of the emirate's long-term strategy and the effectiveness of timely policies and measures to address changes and challenges in regional and global landscape. 'Our Falcon Economy orchestrates multi-dimensional strategies across different sectors, enabling us to build synergies and work in tandem to achieve Abu Dhabi and the UAE's strategic objectives'. The manufacturing sector was the largest non-oil contributor, adding AED28.5bn ($7.8bn) in value—a 5 per cent year-on-year increase. It now represents 9.8 per cent of the emirate's GDP. As part of this, new industrial licences rose 4.7 per cent and the number off factories shifting to production surged 65 per cent, reflecting sectoral expansion Construction posted the strongest growth among non-oil sectors at 10.2 per cent, reaching AED27.5bn ($7.5bn) and contributing 9.4 per cent to total GDP. This expansion is supported by continued investment in housing, infrastructure, and AI-powered permitting systems such as the Binaa platform. The finance and insurance sector grew 9.1 per cent to AED19.6bn ($5.3bn), buoyed by a 43 per cent increase in registered institutions at Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) and a 33 per cent rise in assets under management. Foreign investment into Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) hit AED8.5bn ($2.3bn), up 151 per cent year-on-year and ADX market capitalisation crossed AED2.93tn ($797.8bn), a 3.2 per cent increase. Other examples of the diverse non-oil growth across sectors, include: Wholesale and retail trade: AED16bn ($4.4bn), up 3.6 per cent Real estate: Up 6.7 per cent Transport and logistics: Grew 7.5 per cent, affirming Abu Dhabi's role as a logistics hub Health sector: Up 5.2 per cent, aligned with quality-of-life initiatives Professional and technical services: Contributed 10.3 per cent, driven by rising demand for knowledge economy jobs Arts and entertainment: Grew 8.4 per cent, reinforcing tourism and culture's growing impact Abu Dhabi's population climbed to 4.14m in 2024, up from 3.8m in 2023. This demographic surge complements the emirate's robust non-oil expansion, supporting demand for housing, public services, and jobs. The emirate's AED13bn ($3.5bn) Digital Strategy (2025–2027) aims to position Abu Dhabi as the world's first fully AI-native government by 2027. By automating all public sector operations, the plan will boost efficiency, enhance service delivery and stimulate innovation-led economic growth. Abdulla Gharib Alqemzi, Director General of the Statistics Centre, said: 'The first quarter of 2025 reaffirms the strength, adaptability, and maturity of Abu Dhabi's economic model. Our transition toward a diversified, knowledge-based economy continues to gain momentum, with high-growth sectors like manufacturing, construction, and financial services driving sustainable expansion'.
Economy ME
03-07-2025
- Business
- Economy ME
Abu Dhabi's GDP grows 3.4 percent to $79.2 billion in Q1 2025, driven by 56.2 percent from non-oil sector
Abu Dhabi's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) reached AED291 billion ($79.2 billion) in the first quarter of 2025, recording a 3.4 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024, official data revealed. According to the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi (SCAD) , this performance is driven by the strength of the non-oil economy, which expanded by 6.1 percent year-on-year, reaching AED163.6 billion. For the first time in the Q1 period, the non-oil sector contributed 56.2 percent of the total GDP, while the oil sector accounted for the remaining 43.8 percent, equivalent to AED127.4 billion. The results highlighted the effectiveness of Abu Dhabi's ongoing efforts to diversify its economic base. These achievements underscore the emirate's success in building a broad-based and resilient economy. With momentum driven by manufacturing, construction, financial services, real estate, and trade, the Q1 results reflect strong fundamentals and a well-coordinated economic strategy. His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), said: 'Day after day, Abu Dhabi's economy is reaffirming the success of the emirate's long-term strategy and the effectiveness of timely policies and measures to address changes and challenges in the regional and global landscape. Our Falcon Economy orchestrates multi-dimensional strategies across different sectors, enabling us to build synergies and work in tandem to achieve Abu Dhabi and the UAE's strategic objectives. 'The continued strong performance of non-oil sectors, accounting for 56.2 percent of the total GDP in Q1-2025, is a testament to this vision. The manufacturing sector's steady growth reflects Abu Dhabi's Industrial Strategy's (ADIS) success in turbocharging the sector and enhancing the emirate's status as a magnet for highly skilled talent, businesses, and quality investments. We remain committed to future-proofing our economy, building world-class hubs for financial services, advanced manufacturing, AI, trade and logistics, and new energy.' Growth of knowledge-based economy His Excellency Abdulla Gharib Alqemzi, director general of the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi, said: 'The first quarter of 2025 reaffirms the strength, adaptability, and maturity of Abu Dhabi's economic model. Our transition toward a diversified, knowledge-based economy continues to gain momentum, with high-growth sectors like manufacturing, construction, and financial services driving sustainable expansion. 'This economic resilience is particularly vital as Abu Dhabi's population continues to grow, reaching 4.14 million residents in 2024. Sustained economic growth is not only a sign of vitality; it's essential for supporting public services, investments, and the well-being of our expanding community. SCAD remains committed to providing trusted, timely data that informs decision-making and supports inclusive, long-term development.' Moreover, the manufacturing sector continued to lead the non-oil economy with a total value added of AED28.5 billion (over $7.75 billion) in Q1 2025. It grew by 5 percent compared to the same period last year and contributed 9.8 percent to the emirate's total GDP. In Q1 2025, the sector maintained its upward momentum, with the number of new industrial licenses increasing by 4.7 percent year-on-year, and the number of factories that progressed from under construction to production stage surged by 65 percent, underscoring the industrial sector's continued vitality and operational expansion. Construction activity experienced an expansion of 10.2 percent in Q1 2025, reaching a total value of AED27.5 billion and contributed 9.4 percent to the GDP of the emirate. The performance is linked to continued investment in infrastructure, housing, and urban development. Recent initiatives such as the launch of the Binaa digital building permit platform, powered by artificial intelligence, are expected to further enhance project delivery and regulatory efficiency across the construction landscape. Robust growth in finance and insurance The finance and insurance sector demonstrated robust growth, increasing by 9.1 percent compared to Q1 2024, generating AED19.6 billion in value. This sector contributed 6.7 percent to the total GDP, benefiting from Abu Dhabi's growing reputation as a regional and international financial hub. In the first quarter of 2025, ADGM saw a 43 percent rise in registered financial institutions and a 33 percent increase in assets under management compared to the same period last year. Regulatory updates and expanded investment programs have helped attract global financial firms to establish operations in the emirate. During the same period, the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), the second largest exchange in the MENA region, posted a strong performance. Its market capitalization rose 3.2 percent to exceed AED2.93 trillion, and foreign net investment skyrocketed by 151 percent to over AED8.5 billion, showing the growing confidence of international investors in Abu Dhabi's economy. Additionally, the wholesale and retail trade sector grew by 3.6 percent in Q1 2025, with a total value of AED16 billion and a 5.5 percent contribution to GDP. This reflects continued consumer confidence, supported by steady population growth and tourism recovery. The sector is also benefiting from Abu Dhabi's expanding global trade relations aimed at unlocking access to broader markets and reinforcing trade activity. Read more: Abu Dhabi introduces new real estate regulations to empower developers, protect investors Population growth and economic vitality Professional, scientific, and technical services, including administrative support activities, stood at 10.3 percent, supported by rising demand for business services and knowledge-based professions. The arts and entertainment services grew by 8.4 percent, reinforcing the role of cultural attractions and tourism in economic growth and diversification. The transportation and storage sector expanded by 7.5 percent, reflecting Abu Dhabi's strategic logistics role and growing connectivity. Real estate activities increased by 6.7 percent, with ongoing investment in residential and commercial development projects. The health sector grew by 5.2 percent, aligning with broader public service enhancements and efforts to improve quality of life. As Abu Dhabi's population reached 4.14 million residents in 2024, up from 3.8 million in 2023, its non-oil GDP continues to support the emirate's expanding population through sustained economic growth. This demographic trend reflects economic vitality and the government's long-term vision for sustainable development. Alongside this demographic momentum, Abu Dhabi's AED13 billion Digital Strategy (2025–2027) is driving the emirate toward becoming the world's first fully AI-native government by 2027. By automating all government processes, the strategy aims to boost efficiency, enhance service delivery, and stimulate innovation-driven economic growth—reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as a global leader in data-driven, sustainable development.
Zawya
03-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development launches ‘Future Entrepreneur' program to enhance entrepreneurship skills
Abu Dhabi: The Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED) is launching tomorrow, July 4, 2025, the 'Future Entrepreneur' program to foster entrepreneurship skills among the youth aged between 6 and 18. The key objectives of the program includes fostering innovation, empowering young people with financial management skills and building a new generation of national entrepreneurs using tools for excellence in a practical environment under the guidance of a committee of experts. The program is projected to attract 5,000 participants and develop 2,500 entrepreneurial projects and 1,000 small ventures under the 'Future Entrepreneurs Permit' initiative, launched by the Abu Dhabi Registration Authority (ADRA), an arm of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) to develop and regulate the business sector, over the next five years. It follows a comprehensive process to select exceptional young entrepreneurs based on their eligibility, thinking methodology, creativity and performance. It mainly focuses on innovative problem-solvers and young individuals with the capability to make a long-term impact on Abu Dhabi's economic ecosystem. The program aims to support participants within certain age groups to innovate, develop and sell products and services in a realistic environment. Through this program, participants will receive expert guidance and feedback, helping them reach an idea pitching stage, where they can showcase products and services in a marketplace to promote and sell them and win awards. The training camp, under the program, enables participants to apply their acquired skills in real markets across various key fields, such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, pre-owned goods market and food and beverage kiosks. The camp will also include a stringent evaluation system to recognise exceptional talents and qualify them to be part of 'Builders of Future Launchpad.' Her Excellency Mouza Obaid Al Nasri, CEO of the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, said, 'The Future Entrepreneur program is a testament to our wise leadership's progressive vision to support young talents, investing in programs to make them future leaders. Through this initiative, we aim to foster a culture of innovation among youth and reinforce national entrepreneurship, which is one of the key pillars of national economy and a driver of its sustainable growth and diversification. Furthermore, we seek to offer an enabling ecosystem to transform the aspirations of the participants into success stories at the beginning stage itself, allowing them to grow as successful entrepreneurs and create a lasting impact across Abu Dhabi's major sectors.' The initiative is going to start with an opening ceremony, in "Nabd Al Falah" Center in Al Falah City, offering participants an opportunity to register and select their preferred pathway under the 'Inventor' or 'Trader' categories. The selected participants can then engage in a two-week summer camp and gain practical knowledge in pricing and brand development. The program will extend over a four-week period beginning mid-July, with two extensive study days per week. It seeks to nurture skills of young individuals in areas of idea generation, prototype development, budget planning, storytelling and digital tools. About Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development: The Khalifa Fund is an independent, non-profit organisation affiliated with the Abu Dhabi Government. Its mission is to nurture the culture of entrepreneurship, promote innovation, and offer support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the UAE through a balanced ecosystem. Founded in 2007 in accordance with Law No. 14 of 2005 and its amendments, the Fund was established to align with the vision of the late Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, former President of the United Arab Emirates.
