The United Arab Emirates has emerged as Zimbabwe’s largest export destination, overtaking South Africa in a major shift that underscores the growing economic ties between Harare and the Gulf state.
New trade figures show the UAE accounted for half of Zimbabwe’s export earnings in the first quarter of 2026, cementing its position as the country’s most important overseas market and highlighting changing trade dynamics in Southern Africa.
According to data from the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat), Zimbabwe exported goods worth approximately $1.401 billion to the UAE between January and March, representing 50% of the country's total exports of $2.775 billion during the period. Minerals and horticultural products remained the dominant export categories.
The development comes as bilateral trade between Zimbabwe and the UAE continues to expand rapidly. Trade volumes exceeded $5 billion in 2025, and officials from both countries expect that figure to surpass $6 billion by the end of 2026.
Speaking on the growing partnership, President Emmerson Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe’s engagement and re-engagement policy had helped strengthen international relationships and create opportunities for deeper economic cooperation.
