The UAE's reputation as a global gold powerhouse remains unshaken, with $53.41 billion (Dh196 billion) worth of gold exported in 2024–2025, according to trade analytics firm TradeImex. The massive export value reinforces the country's strategic role in international bullion trade and its position among the world's top gold-exporting nations.
Located at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and Europe, the UAE continues to leverage its logistical infrastructure and liberal trade policies to attract gold buyers from all over the world, from institutional investors to retail markets.
What Kind of Gold Is Exported?
UAE gold exports span a wide range of products, led by gold bars, which alone accounted for $5.8 billion. Other significant exports included:
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Gold coins – $4.7 billion
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Jewellery – $3.8 billion
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Gold dust – $2.71 billion
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Gold nuggets – $1.86 billion
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Gold scrap – $1.57 billion
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Bullion – $1 billion
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Gold plating – $900 million
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Gold leaf – $800 million
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Gold brooches – $700 million
These products reflect the UAE's role not only as a trade and refining hub but also as a center of jewellery craftsmanship and industrial gold applications.
Top 10 Gold Importers from the UAE
TradeImex data shows that ten key countries dominate imports of UAE gold. Here’s where most of it went in 2023:
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Switzerland – $4.76 billion
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Imported bars, jewellery-grade gold, gold flakes, and gold powder.
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United Kingdom – $3.65 billion
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Favored nuggets, bullion, coins, brooches, and bangles.
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India – $2.87 billion
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Purchased gold-plated utensils, coated goods, and alloyed products.
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Hong Kong – $2.45 billion
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Focused on certified jewellery and gold-plated electronics.
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Turkey – $1.86 billion
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Imported coins and various gold shades, including black and rose gold.
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Singapore – $1.84 billion
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Known for engraved jewellery and mixed gold alloys.
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Kuwait – $1.5 billion
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Favored rings, necklaces, and gold bracelets.
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Bahrain – $1 billion
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Bought watches, statues, and ornamental gold.
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Qatar – $900 million
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Imported semi-refined and pearl-encrusted gold.
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China – $800 million
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Purchased sculptures, branded bars, recycled goods, and coins.
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These figures underscore the global spread and versatility of UAE gold products, serving not only the jewellery sector but also investment and industrial uses.
Why UAE Remains a Gold Trade Leader
The UAE's dominance in global gold flows is driven by multiple factors:
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Free-trade zones
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World-class infrastructure
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Transparent regulations
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Thriving retail and wholesale gold markets
The World Gold Council has repeatedly noted the Emirates’ role as a stabilizing force in times of global economic uncertainty. Dubai, in particular, remains a magnet for both bulk buyers and tourists alike, with markets like Gold Souq offering everything from custom ornaments to bullion investment products.
As gold demand continues to evolve, understanding where UAE gold flows reveals much about international market confidence, geopolitical shifts, and even consumer preferences in a high-inflation, high-volatility world.
