Even during times of global economic fluctuations, Dubai has stayed on course of positive growth. A close study of the trade trend over the past 10 years shows that this pattern will continue in the coming years and Dubai will remain the leading trading hub in the region.

Results show that direct trade volume surged by 44% reaching Dhs. 612.7 billion in 2008 compared to 2007 when it was Dhs. 425.4 billion.

The biggest growth was marked in the export sector, which rose by 58% from Dhs. 27 billion in 2007 to approx. Dhs. 42.6 billion in 2008. This Dhs. 14 billion increase underlines the sound nature of the national
economy.

Imports grew by 48% rising from Dhs. 297.7 billion in 2007 to Dhs.444.4 billion in 2008.

The re-exports sector recorded growth by 28% from 100.6 billion in 2007 to 128.6 billion in 2008.

Foreign trade through Dubai Free Zones increased by 29% in 2008 compared to the previous year, rising from Dhs. 237.7 billion to Dhs 307 billion.

Imports recorded 33% growth, from Dhs. 141.6 billion to Dhs. 187.8 billion whereas exports rose by 24%, Dhs. 96.1 billion to Dhs. 119.1 billion