As one of the world's largest oil producers and exporters, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) launched a new economic program in recent years. The UAE's political leadership has implemented structural reforms to transform the national economy from an energy-centered production model to a technology-oriented structure. Many international technology companies have invested across the country—especially in Dubai—thanks to tax and incentive advantages. Companies such as Tesla, Apple, and Microsoft have led the way in Dubai-based investments, while the country's non-oil foreign trade has rapidly developed. In 2017, the majority of the UAE’s $674 billion in foreign trade was composed of oil and oil-related sectors. However, by 2024, non-oil sectors came to constitute the bulk of the country’s foreign trade. Dubai, in particular, has stood out in terms of technology investments, positioning the city at the heart of global commerce. As a result, the Port of Dubai has become one of the world’s largest trade hubs. While discussions continue regarding the port’s expansion, there are also plans to increase air cargo capacity.
Between 2017 and 2025, the UAE achieved a total of $4.156 trillion in exports and $3.723 trillion in imports. The total foreign trade volume reached $8.239 trillion, giving the country a $792 billion trade surplus. Ranked among the top five countries globally in terms of trade surplus, the UAE also stands out along global transit trade routes. Within China’s Belt and Road Initiative, the Port of Dubai could evolve into a major trade center for goods arriving from Asia and being transferred to Europe. With the growth of both port and air transport, the Dubai International Trade Center has also come to the forefront, significantly increasing the city’s investment appeal. For this reason, in 2024 alone, $207 billion worth of real estate transactions took place in Dubai. In 2025, a similar volume of $220 billion in new real estate transactions is expected. Dubai has become a hub for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), and over the next five years, it is estimated to attract over $240 billion in new investments, solidifying its status as a top destination for international investors. The UAE government is determined to reduce its dependence on oil exports by 2030, aiming to transform the country into a hub for trade, technology, tourism, and real estate investment. Focused investments and global attention on Dubai led to nearly 20 million tourists visiting the city in 2024 alone, generating over $30 billion in tourism revenue. The financial stability of the local currency also has a strongly positive impact on incoming investors. Foreign investors are particularly drawn to the UAE due to near-zero income tax rates and political stability.
As a result, billions of dollars in foreign investment are expected to flow into the country by 2030. As Parcel Estates, we aim to support investors by focusing on investment opportunities centered in Dubai. The growth in the country’s foreign trade volume—rising by $1.5 trillion— and the increasing attractiveness of the UAE to real estate investors is, in our view, no coincidence.
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