Russia–UAE trade surpasses US$12 billion as economic partnership gains momentum
Record growth in goods, services and tourism highlights expanding bilateral cooperation
Trade between Russia and the United Arab Emirates exceeded US$12 billion in 2025, setting a new historical record and confirming the UAE’s position among Russia’s top ten trading partners, Russian officials said following high-level talks between the two countries’ leaders.
According to Russia’s Ministry of Economic Development, bilateral cooperation continues to expand across multiple sectors, demonstrating sustained growth in both trade and investment ties. Goods trade reached an all-time high last year, while trade in services has increased sevenfold over the past five years and now exceeds merchandise turnover in value.
A key milestone in bilateral relations was the signing of an intergovernmental agreement on trade in services and investment in August 2025. The agreement provides a comprehensive legal framework for deeper economic engagement, reducing administrative barriers and establishing transparent and predictable rules for cross-border business and investment activity.
Productivity enhancement has emerged as one of the priority areas of cooperation. Both sides are exploring further exchanges of best practices, building on recent dialogue aimed at improving labour efficiency and organisational performance. Additional bilateral events dedicated to this topic are currently under consideration.
Tourism has also shown strong positive dynamics. The United Arab Emirates ranks among the most popular foreign destinations for Russian travellers, with tourist flows increasing by nearly 20 per cent over the past year, reflecting growing people-to-people contacts and improved connectivity.
Overall coordination of bilateral economic issues is carried out through the Intergovernmental Russian-Emirati Commission. Its 12th meeting, held in December alongside a business dialogue platform, laid the groundwork for continued cooperation and the expansion of joint initiatives in trade, services and investment.
Officials on both sides note that the steady strengthening of economic ties reflects the strategic nature of the Russia–UAE partnership and creates new opportunities for long-term, mutually beneficial development.
Photo: Pressmaster / iStock
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