This robust trade activity resulted in a $23.8 billion trade surplus for the U.S., the largest U.S. trade surplus in the MENA region
The UAE has solidified its position as a premier global economic partner for the U.S. in 2025. According to data released by the U.S. Department of Commerce, total trade between the UAE and the U.S. reached a record-breaking $39 billion last year, with U.S. exports to the UAE totaling $31.4 billion, a 16 percent increase.
This data highlights the deepening strategic economic relationship between the two countries, built on mutual trust, shared priorities and a commitment to economic growth.
UAE remains region’s top export destination for U.S. goods
2025 marked the 17th consecutive year the UAE has been the top export destination for U.S. goods and services in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, driving sustained U.S. economic growth and job creation.
This robust trade activity resulted in a $23.8 billion trade surplus for the U.S., the largest U.S. trade surplus in the MENA region and the fourth largest globally. The new trade data further reinforces an accelerating bilateral economic and investment relationship, and a steady increase in demand for American innovation, technology and services in the UAE.
UAE Ambassador to the U.S. Yousef Al Otaiba highlighted the trade and investment figures at an event in Washington, DC, hosted by the U.S.-UAE Business Council. During the event, Al Otaiba also noted that 2025 marked a significant turning point in the bilateral relationship, underscored by President Donald Trump’s visit to Abu Dhabi last May.
UAE-U.S. partnership expands in AI, energy and critical minerals
Economic cooperation is expanding rapidly across AI, semiconductors, energy and critical minerals, fundamentally changing the nature of the UAE-U.S. economic relationship. This includes collaboration on responsible AI development and secure AI diffusion. Last November, the U.S. government approved the sale of advanced Nvidia semiconductor chips to the UAE, marking a significant milestone.
“The UAE-U.S. relationship is a strategic partnership rooted in trust, shared security interests and long-term economic investment,” said Ambassador Yousef Al Otaiba. “The 2025 trade data underscores how that partnership delivers real results— with U.S. exports to the UAE increasing 16 percent year over year to reach $31.4 billion—supporting American jobs, strengthening supply chains and accelerating innovation across critical sectors. As the UAE continues to diversify its economy, we are increasingly looking to American partners to help drive progress in sectors ranging from aerospace and healthcare to renewable energy and AI.”
Read: Saudi Arabia launches Mowaridi platform to digitalize, manage Makkah food supply chains
UAE investments in the U.S. surpass $1 trillion
UAE investments in the U.S. currently surpass $1 trillion and the UAE is on track to fulfill its pledge to invest $1.4 trillion into the American economy over the next decade, strengthening supply chains and building domestic production capacity.
“Whether through large-scale sovereign investments or the expansion of Emirati businesses in the U.S. market, we remain dedicated to our $1.4 trillion investment commitment. This commitment reflects our long-term bet on American growth and technological leadership. Together, the UAE and the United States are building resilient supply chains, advancing next-generation technologies and expanding opportunity for businesses in both countries,” said Ambassador Al Otaiba.
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