UAE exporters stay confident on growth even as risks evolve

MORE THAN 7 IN 10 COMPANIES OPTIMISTIC, SAYS ALLIANZ TRADE GLOBAL SURVEY

- BY NIVETHA DAYANAND Assistant Business Editor

Companies across the UAE and global markets continue to expect export growth in 2026, even as the Middle East conflict reshapes financial conditions and risk dynamics across global trade.

The latest Allianz Trade Global Survey, which covered 6,000 firms across 13 markets during February and March, shows that more than seven in ten companies remain optimistic about export performance this year. That resilience reflects steady demand and the ability of businesses to adapt to changing conditions following last year’s trade disruptions.

“The Survey reveals that 75 per cent of exporters continue to expect positive export growth in 2026. The impact of the Middle East conflict seems moderate, even more when compared to the 2025 tariff shock, when expectations dropped by -40pp,” said Aylin Somersan Coqui, CEO of Allianz Trade.

Confidence remains intact, though companies are adjusting to a changing risk environment.

Trade finance conditions are becoming more nuanced, with companies seeing longer payment cycles and placing greater focus on cash flow management.