UAE: A Global Business and Trade Hub

Why the UAE Attracts Global Corporations?

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has long been renowned not only for its economic stability but also for its exceptionally favorable business environment. In 2024, the country achieved non-oil trade worth 2.6 trillion dirhams, a remarkable increase compared to the 2.23 trillion dirhams reported in 2022. This figure is not just a number; it sends a clear message: the UAE has not only survived global economic changes but has also elevated its position in international trade to a new level.

Strategic Geographical Location: A Link Between Major Global Markets

One of the UAE's most significant attractions is its geographical location. The country serves as a natural bridge between Asia, Europe, and Africa. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah have become hubs where Eastern and Western trade routes converge. This position makes the country particularly attractive to companies reevaluating their supply chains and aiming to diversify their supplier or manufacturing bases.

According to the Standard Chartered's "Future of Trade: Resilience" study, 20% of the world's large corporations are already exploring the possibility of organizing their logistics operations through the UAE. This proportion is remarkable on its own, but even more telling is that of the more than 1,200 companies from the 17 examined countries (each with an annual revenue of at least 250 million dollars), an increasing number choose the UAE as a starting point towards China, Africa, Southeast Asia, or the United States.

World-Class Infrastructure: Globally Competitive

Excellence in logistics is no accident. The country boasts world-class ports like Jebel Ali Port, connecting with more than 150 global destinations. Additionally, Abu Dhabi's Khalifa Port and Sharjah's Hamriyah Terminal are continuously expanding, providing regional connections.

In air transport, Emirates and Etihad Airways operate across six continents, strengthening the intertwining of trade, tourism, and logistics. Such infrastructure is crucial not only for physical goods flow but also as a foundation for investor confidence.

Business-Friendly Regulations and Investment Environment

The UAE has been the Arab world's most competitive economy for years and is among the global leaders: according to the 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Index, it ranks 18th. Foreign direct investment exceeded 30 billion dollars in 2024, making the country one of the world's top 15 most attractive FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) destinations.

The "Operation 300bn" program further boosts investment appetite, aiming for the industrial sector's contribution to reach 300 billion dirhams by 2031. The program focuses on advanced manufacturing, green energy, and technology industries, supported by economic partnership agreements (CEPAs) with key partner countries like India, Indonesia, Turkey, and South Korea.

Strengthening of Regional Connectivity and Partnerships

Internal, regional trade relations are also continuously strengthening. According to the report, more than half of the companies from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and India plan further cooperation and investment with the UAE. This trend underscores the country's role as a commercial link between the Middle East and South Asia, contributing to successful collaborations not only through logistics but also through political and economic stability.

Digitalization and Technological Innovation

The UAE excels not only in physical infrastructure but also in digital developments. The country is at the forefront of artificial intelligence, blockchain, and fintech. Its innovation hubs, such as Dubai Internet City, the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), or the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), attract global technology giants.

Since 2022, over 1,400 international companies have decided to be present in these free economic zones. According to the EY MENA Investment Outlook 2025, these companies choose the country for its easy business setup, favorable tax environment, and strategic location.

Reevaluated Supply Chains After the Pandemic

After the pandemic, many companies have reviewed their operational strategies. The "China+1" or "China+Middle East" model has gained popularity, within which companies seek alternative or complementary sites alongside Chinese manufacturing. The UAE naturally emerges as a choice: with a stable political system, proactive economic policy, and an outstanding network of connections.

The UAE as the Business Hub of the Future

As more global brands, such as Microsoft, Siemens, Unilever, and Schlumberger, establish regional centers or innovation units in the country, the UAE increasingly becomes not only a regional but a global business hub.

In a world where competitiveness is defined by the flexibility of supply chains, geopolitical neutrality, and digital readiness, the UAE is an ideal choice for forward-thinking companies. The available data carries a clear message: the United Arab Emirates is no longer merely a bridge between East and West — it is the place where the business world of the future is being built.

(The article is based on a report by Standard Chartered.)