Overview
- The comprehensive pact entered into force on October 1, with officials touting new market access for goods and services and a framework for deeper private-sector collaboration.
- UAE authorities forecast annual bilateral trade to rise from $4.2 billion in 2024 to more than $10 billion by 2032.
- Trade momentum preceded implementation, with the UAE’s non-oil trade with Australia reaching $3.03 billion in the first half of 2025, up 33.4% year on year.
- Provisions reduce or remove tariffs, streamline customs procedures, and target investment in sectors including renewable energy, infrastructure, food security and technology.
- Existing ties include roughly $14 billion in bilateral investment and more than 300 Australian companies operating in the UAE, which is Australia’s largest partner in the Middle East and its 20th globally.