Report by the WTO Secretariat

The UAE’s trade regime is open, with low tariffs and few non-tariff barriers to trade. The UAE’s openness was instrumental in achieving the solid growth registered prior to the global crisis and has facilitated the diversification of economic activity. The investment regime remains considerably more restrictive than the trade regime, as foreign participation in any domestic company or activity is limited to 49% of the capital; however, 100% foreign ownership is allowed in any of the UAE’s free zones.