Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates are close to signing a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement that could transform their economic relationship. UAE Ambassador Salem Mohammed Al Zaabi announced the development at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce, calling the agreement a critical step toward removing business obstacles and doubling bilateral trade.
Current trade stands at roughly $8 to $10 billion annually, but both countries believe this figure falls short of their actual potential. The UAE has given clear instructions to double this volume as quickly as possible. The Emirates is already expanding investments across Pakistani infrastructure, ports, aviation, agriculture, minerals and railways. Discussions with Pakistan’s Railway Ministry are advancing, with new agreements on supply chain connectivity from northern regions to Karachi expected soon.
The UAE is also working to streamline visa procedures and improve skilled labor mobility through digital systems. Ambassador Al Zaabi emphasized his personal involvement in ensuring full implementation of all signed agreements.
Pakistan’s exports to the UAE reached $2.1 billion last fiscal year, while imports totaled around $8 billion, mostly petroleum products. Remittances from the UAE hit $7.8 billion in 2024, reflecting the millions of Pakistanis working there. The Lahore Chamber sees untapped potential in renewable energy, agriculture, IT, logistics and tourism.
