UAE launches programme to attract 1,000 international companies
DUBAI : The UAE on Thursday launched an international economic programme to attract the world’s top 1,000 companies specialising in international trade, as part of efforts to further strengthen the nation’s global position in foreign trade.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, made the announcement via his X account.
“We launched an international economic programme to strengthen the UAE’s global position in foreign trade. The programme aims to attract the world’s top 1,000 companies specialising in international trade, launch a digital gateway linking thousands of UAE exporting companies to global markets, and create greater opportunities and new markets for their products and exports. The initiative reinforces the UAE’s position as a key hub on international trade routes”, the Vice President said.
The programme, announced in Dubai and led by the Ministry of Foreign Trade, builds on the UAE’s rapid trade growth and its expanding network of international partnerships. It aims to connect UAE exporters with high-demand markets, streamline trade processes, and introduce new tools that strengthen the country’s role as a global gateway for goods and services.
Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, said the programme reflects the leadership’s belief that trade is a key engine of economic development.
“The initiatives under the UAE Global Center of Trade programme will ensure we capture an ever-increasing share of international commerce, whether that’s through offering new horizons for UAE exporters or providing a raft of benefits for companies seeking a platform for international expansion,” he said.
“By rolling out new tools to simplify exports, utilizing AI to identify new markets and high-potential sectors, promoting the excellence of our private sector across the world, and educating our businesses and entrepreneurs on the opportunities provided by our foreign trade network, we can better leverage our strategic position at a global crossroads. This is a moment for the UAE to restate the case for global trade and to demonstrate its ability to power the next stage of prosperity.”
The programme supports the UAE’s record trade performance. In the first nine months of 2025, non-oil trade grew 24.6% year-on-year to Dh2.67 trillion. Exports reached Dh579.4 billion, while re-exports totalled Dh597.7 billion.
8 new initiatives at a glance
- Attracting international trading companies
The initiative targets 1,000 new global trading firms by using advanced analytics to identify market opportunities, demand trends and high-potential sectors, particularly in countries with Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements. - UAE Export Portal
A digital platform that connects UAE exporters with trusted global buyers, offering customs guidance, CEPA information, AI-based market insights and access to new markets.
- Ready2Trade
A training programme offering advanced and introductory modules on global sales strategies, export procedures, compliance and documentation. It aims to support more than 10,000 companies. - UAE Trade Days
A series of promotional events in key markets that link UAE exporters with international importers and help build long-term commercial networks. - UAE International Trade Expo
A major global event hosted in the UAE, expected to attract 600 companies from 50 countries and draw 100,000 visitors. - UAE Traders of the Future Programme
An initiative designed to train and graduate 100 Emiratis each year in global trade skills, network-building, and risk management.
- Young Traders Programme
A programme that introduces high-school and university students to the world of international trade through workshops, field visits and interactive learning. - Leveraging AI to optimise foreign trade
Fifteen AI-driven systems will support forecasting, supply-chain planning and risk management by analysing millions of data points from customs, ports and global markets.
Together, these initiatives aim to cement the UAE’s role as a leading centre for global commerce and expand the country’s reach across the world’s fastest-growing markets.
Source : Gulf News