UAE advances rules-based trade at BRICS meet; deepens economic ties

The United Arab Emirates is actively engaging with the BRICS bloc to bolster global trade rules and economic cooperation. UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, Dr. Thani Bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, attended the 2026 BRICS Trade Ministers Meeting in Jaipur, India, hosted by the nation under its chairmanship.

The meeting aimed to discuss critical issues such as protecting the multilateral trading system, promoting inclusive trade, supporting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), and adapting global value chains to rapid digital transformation. During his visit, Al Zeyoudi held bilateral discussions with key trade officials from India, China, Egypt, Indonesia, South Africa, and Russia, focusing on enhancing trade and investment, expanding cooperation in key sectors, and deepening private-sector engagement.

A significant point of discussion for the UAE was its "grave concerns" over Iran's actions impacting commercial shipping and the Strait of Hormuz. Al Zeyoudi reiterated the UAE's call for the immediate and unconditional reopening of the strait and the protection of freedom of navigation, in line with international law. Despite the productive bilateral meetings, the trade ministers were unable to reach a consensus on a joint declaration at the conclusion of the TMM.

Al Zeyoudi emphasized the importance of cooperation among emerging markets and developing economies during a period of global trade uncertainty, viewing BRICS as a vital platform for strengthening economic ties and advocating for an open, predictable trading environment. The UAE's commitment to translating these discussions into tangible outcomes for businesses was highlighted. The strong growth in trade between the UAE and BRICS nations underscores this engagement, with bilateral non-oil trade surpassing $312 billion in 2025, a nearly 29% increase from the previous year. BRICS countries represented approximately 31% of the UAE's total non-oil foreign trade in 2025.

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At a time of heightened uncertainty in global trade, cooperation between emerging markets and developing economies is more important than ever. The UAE views BRICS as an important platform for strengthening economic cooperation and supporting an open and predictable trading environment. Our engagement in Jaipur reinforced the strength of the UAE’s economic relationships with fellow BRICS members, and we are committed to translating these discussions into tangible outcomes for businesses and communities.