The United Arab Emirates and the Federal Republic of Nigeria enjoy growing economic and trade relations, reflected in the steady expansion of bilateral trade and the diversification of investment opportunities between the two countries. Non-oil trade reached approximately USD 4.9 billion in 2025, representing a 14% increase over USD 4.3 billion in 2024, following growth from approximately USD 2.7 billion in 2023. Bilateral trade is expected to continue its upward trajectory in 2026 following the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in January 2026. The UAE is Nigeria's leading Arab trading partner, accounting for approximately 47% of Nigeria's total trade with Arab countries. The resumption of Emirates Airline flights to Nigeria has also contributed to increased trade and business activity while facilitating stronger economic and investment ties between the two countries.
The Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Abuja has led a number of initiatives to strengthen economic cooperation and promote investment. Notably, it hosted the first edition of Investopia on the African continent in February 2026, reflecting the growing economic partnership between the UAE and Nigeria. The Embassy also organized the UAE–Nigeria Trade and Investment Forum in Dubai in 2021 in cooperation with the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, as well as an Investment Forum in partnership with the Nigeria Governors' Forum on the sidelines of the 11th Annual Investment Meeting in Dubai, which was attended by the governors of 14 Nigerian states. In addition, the Embassy co-organized the Dubai–Nigeria Trade Forum in Lagos in December 2018 in collaboration with the Dubai Exports Development Corporation and the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
