The non-oil trade between the United Arab Emirates and the Federal Republic of Nigeria reached USD 4.9 billion in 2025, representing a 14% increase compared to 2024, when it stood at USD 4.3 billion, while in 2023 it amounted to USD 2.7 billion. Trade volume is expected to witness further growth in 2026, in light of the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the two countries in January 2026.
The United Arab Emirates is Nigeria’s leading Arab trade partner, accounting for approximately 47% of Nigeria’s total trade with Arab countries. In addition, the resumption of Emirates Airlines flights to Nigeria has significantly contributed to enhancing trade and business flows and facilitating economic and investment connectivity between the two countries.
- The Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Abuja has also implemented a number of initiatives and activities aimed at supporting economic cooperation and promoting investment, including the following:
- The establishment of a Consulate of the United Arab Emirates in Lagos, the commercial capital of Nigeria, aimed at further enhancing trade and investment relations.
- The holding of Investopia for the first time on African soil on 2 February 2026, reflecting the growing economic partnership between the two sides and strengthening regional investment cooperation.
- The UAE–Nigeria Trade and Investment Forum organized in cooperation with the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission in Dubai in 2021, attended by His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
- The Investment Forum organized in cooperation with the Nigeria Governors’ Forum on the sidelines of the 11th Annual Investment Meeting (AIM) in Dubai, with the participation of 14 Nigerian state governors.
- The Dubai–Nigeria Trade Forum held in December 2018 in Lagos, in cooperation with the Dubai Export Development Corporation and the Lagos Chamber of Commerce.
