Dubai’s Record Trade Performance
- 17.01.2026
- Posted by: Uwe Hohmann
- Categories: Dubai, Middle East
Dubai’s position as a company formation destination remains strong.
The latest figures from Dubai Chamber of Commerce confirm what many entrepreneurs and investors already recognise: Dubai continues to deliver results for companies engaged in regional and international trade.
The Numbers Behind the Confidence
Member exports and re-exports through the Dubai Chamber of Commerce reached AED356.5 billion in 2025, up 15.1 percent from the previous year. This is the highest annual value on record.
More telling is the membership growth. The chamber registered 71,830 new companies in 2025 alone, bringing total active membership to 292,486. That is a 13.2 percent increase year-on-year. These are not speculative registrations. These are operating businesses that have selected Dubai as their commercial base.
What Makes Dubai Work for Trade-Oriented Businesses
Geography plays a decisive role. Dubai sits within an eight-hour flight of two-thirds of the world’s population. For businesses trading physical goods, this means efficient supply chains and market access across the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council), wider Middle East, Africa, South Asia, and beyond.
The infrastructure supports this position. Port capacity, air freight facilities, and free zone structures give businesses flexibility in how they organise their operations. Whether you are importing for local distribution, re-exporting to neighbouring markets, or producing goods for international sale, the commercial setup options are well established.
Trade documentation is efficient. In 2025, the chamber issued over 852,000 certificates of origin. ATA Carnet processing, which permits the temporary import/export of goods without incurring duties, reached AED5.6 billion in value. These services reduce administrative burden for companies moving goods across borders.
Commercial Environment Considerations
Company formation in Dubai offers several structural benefits.
- No personal income tax.
- Favorable CIT (Corporate Income Tax) rates.
- Full foreign ownership permitted.
- Clear visa pathways for shareholders, employees, and dependants.
The regulatory framework continues to develop. In 2025, 54 laws and draft laws were reviewed with private-sector input, and 60% of the business community’s recommendations were adopted. This indicates a government responsive to commercial requirements.
Is Dubai Right for Your Business?
The export figures and company registration numbers reflect sustained commercial activity. But whether Dubai fits your specific business depends on your target markets, operating model, and growth objectives.
If you trade with the GCC, MENA (Middle East and North Africa), or South Asian markets, the location advantage is evident.
If your business requires warehousing, production, or distribution infrastructure, the facilities are in place.
If you need access to a qualified, multilingual workforce, Dubai provides that.
Comprehensive UAE Business Solutions
Our comprehensive services are designed to support you every step of your business journey in the UAE:
- Company Formation: We guide you through all aspects of setting up your company, whether in a free zone or on the mainland, ensuring you choose the best option for your business.
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- Accounting: Our team ensures your business stays compliant with local financial regulations, which is crucial for maintaining good standing in Dubai’s business community.
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- Compliance and AML : We help ensure your business remains compliant with UAE laws and regulatory requirements while assisting in the implementation, maintenance, and training of AML (Anti-Money Laundering) procedures in line with national and international standards.
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