German companies in the UAE remain confident

Up to 61% of German companies in the UAE expect improved business performance, while 52% plan on increasing investment, says Dr Martin Henkelmann, CEO, German Emirati Joint Council for Industry & Commerce (AHK), while speaking exclusively to GN Focus

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The UAE is a key gateway for German businesses entering the Middle East. What opportunities do you see for expanding German presence in the UAE's economic landscape?

The economic partnership between Germany and the UAE is among the strongest in the region. As the UAE's top trading partner within the EU, Germany exported goods worth €9.7 billion in 2024, a 13 per cent increase from the previous year. This growth has continued in 2025, with €6.2 billion in exports during the first seven months, marking a 16.1 per cent year-on-year rise.

Beyond the figures, German companies in the UAE remain confident: 61 per cent expect improved business performance, and 52 per cent plan to increase investment, according to our World Business Outlook survey by the AHK and DIHK.

The UAE's strategic location, linking markets across the GCC, Africa, and Asia, continues to make it a key base for regional expansion. Many German companies have established a long-term presence here, benefiting from the country's business friendly environment while contributing to its economic development.

Many German SMEs are globally respected for engineering and precision. How are you supporting them to establish or scale their presence in the UAE and beyond?