Dubai–Ethiopia trade has entered a new strategic phase, with the emirate intensifying efforts to establish a strong foothold in one of Africa’s most closely watched growth markets. Non oil trade between the two sides surged to AED 22.3 billion (US$6.1 billion) in 2025, marking a sharp 236.6% year on year increase and highlighting the rapid expansion of bilateral flows.

The Dubai Chamber of Commerce recently concluded a trade mission to Addis Ababa, anchored by the “Dubai–Ethiopia Business Connect” forum. Organized in partnership with the UAE Embassy, Ethiopian chambers of commerce, and the Ethiopian Investment Commission, the mission featured a dense schedule of bilateral meetings aimed at translating headline trade growth into tangible business deals.

The delegation included representatives from 21 Dubai based companies across diverse sectors such as automotive, construction, electronics, FMCG, food and beverages, mining, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and oil and gas. This broad mix reflects Dubai’s push to move beyond merchandise trade toward deeper supply chain partnerships and co investment opportunities. President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, emphasized the chamber’s commitment to strengthening ties and opening new channels for cooperation between businesses in both markets.

Ethiopia, meanwhile, is positioning itself as open to Gulf capital, using trade diplomacy to attract investment in manufacturing, logistics, and services. By Q1 2026, 1,676 Ethiopian companies were registered with Dubai Chamber, underscoring growing institutional links. Both sides now aim to shift from transactional exchanges to strategic partnerships, with Dubai offering Ethiopian firms a gateway to global markets and Gulf investors a structured entry point into Africa’s second most populous state.