UAE and Singapore seek to strengthen trade ties as non-oil trade hits $6.54 billion

The UAE and Singapore are looking to deepen economic cooperation and expand investment opportunities as bilateral non-oil trade reached $6.54 billion in 2025, marking a 25.3% increase from the previous year.

UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi met with Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong and Minister Tan See Leng to discuss strengthening commercial ties, encouraging investment flows, and identifying new areas of cooperation between the two economies.

According to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), the discussions focused on expanding business partnerships, exchanging expertise, and supporting sustainable economic growth through greater private-sector participation.

Al Zeyoudi highlighted the growing economic relationship between the two countries and the importance of creating more opportunities for investors and companies.

“Our partnership with Singapore continues to grow on solid foundations, particularly in trade and investment,” he said.

He added that strengthening business ties and facilitating trade and investment flows would help unlock new opportunities while supporting more diversified and sustainable economic relations.

During his visit, Al Zeyoudi also met with Singaporean investors, business leaders, and representatives of major companies and economic institutions to explore potential investment projects and expand cooperation across key sectors.

The meetings highlighted the private sector’s role in strengthening market integration and translating emerging economic opportunities into commercial partnerships.

Non-oil trade between the UAE and Singapore rose from $5.2 billion in 2024 to $6.54 billion in 2025. The UAE remains Singapore’s largest trading partner in the Middle East.

Meanwhile, UAE direct investment in Singapore reached $5.12 billion between 2021 and 2025, reflecting the growing investment relationship between the two countries.

Around 230 Singaporean companies currently operate in the UAE, with activities spanning real estate, hospitality, tourism, energy, telecommunications, transportation, and warehousing.

The latest discussions reflect efforts by both countries to diversify their economic partnerships, strengthen business connections, and create new opportunities for bilateral investment.