Goods imports:
~US$ 450 billion per year (world top 14)
United
United Arab Emirates — Global Import Market
The United Arab Emirates is one of the world's largest importers, bringing in roughly US$ 450 billion in goods each year. As the Gulf's trade and logistics hub, it imports large volumes of machinery, vehicles, electronics, and food, with a major re-export role across the GCC, Africa, and South Asia.
Market overview — imports by volume
Global share of imports:
~1.8%
Import reliance:
very high, with a strong re-export and distribution role
Notable:
a gateway market with one of the world's most open trade regimes
Top 10 imported items by value
1. Machinery & mechanical appliances
2. Motor vehicles & parts
3. Electrical machinery & electronics
4. Food & beverages
5. Jewelry & precious metals
6. Chemical products
7. Iron & steel articles
8. Textiles & clothing
9. Pharmaceuticals & medical products
10. Plastics & articles
What this means for Canadian exporters
The UAE is a high-value gateway into the Gulf, Africa, and South Asia for Canadian exporters of food, machinery, and high-value goods. Its open regime, strong re-export infrastructure, and income levels make it an attractive base for reaching a wide regional buyer network.