The United Arab Emirates has solidified its reputation as a global gold trading powerhouse, with gold exports exceeding $53.41 billion (Dh196 billion) in 2024, according to global trade analytics firm TradeImex.
Thanks to its strategic location between Asia, Africa, and Europe, the UAE continues to be a preferred hub for international gold trade — attracting not just tourists and retail shoppers in Dubai’s iconic Gold Souk, but also major global buyers across continents.
Top Gold Products Exported by the UAE
The UAE exports various forms of gold, with gold bars leading the way at $5.8 billion in 2023. Other high-value gold products include:
Gold coins: $4.7 billion
Gold jewellery: $3.8 billion
Gold dust: $2.71 billion
Gold nuggets: $1.86 billion
Gold scrap: $1.57 billion
Gold bullion: $1 billion
Gold plating: $900 million
Gold leaf: $800 million
Gold brooches: $700 million
UAE’s Role in the Global Gold Market
According to the World Gold Council, the UAE remains a dominant force in international gold trading due to its:
Free-trade policies
State-of-the-art logistics
Thriving retail and wholesale gold markets
These advantages have positioned the Emirates as a reliable gold supplier during both economic stability and global market volatility.
Gold Trade Trends and Investment Insights
As global demand evolves and prices shift, tracking UAE gold exports reveals much more than just trade routes — it offers insight into geopolitical dynamics, inflation trends, and shifting consumer preferences for jewellery and investment gold products.