UAE at BRICS Meeting: Trade Resilience & Hormuz Concerns

Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the UAE’s Minister of Foreign Trade, recently participated in the 2026 BRICS Trade Ministers Meeting (TMM) held in Jaipur, India. This significant gathering, hosted by India under its BRICS Chairmanship, brought together trade ministers and senior officials.

The meeting primarily focused on crucial topics vital for global commerce, including safeguarding the multilateral trading system, promoting inclusive trade practices, and empowering Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Discussions also aimed at reconfiguring global value chains, particularly in the context of accelerating digital transformation.

Diplomatic Engagements in Jaipur

During his visit, Minister Al Zeyoudi engaged in a series of bilateral discussions with key international counterparts. These meetings aimed to strengthen trade and investment ties, expand cooperation in priority sectors, and deepen private-sector engagement.

He met with India’s Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, and China International Trade Representative, Li Chenggang. Further discussions were held with Egypt’s Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade, Dr. Mohamed Farid Saleh, Indonesia’s Minister of Trade, Dr. Budi Santoso, South Africa’s Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Franklyn Mpho Tau, and Russia’s Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Ilichev Vladimir Evgenievich.

UAE Raises Maritime Security Concerns

At the TMM, Al Zeyoudi articulated the UAE’s serious concerns regarding Iran’s attacks on commercial shipping. He specifically highlighted the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

The UAE reiterated its demand for the immediate and unconditional reopening of the Strait, emphasizing the necessity to protect freedom of navigation and international shipping in accordance with international law. Despite a broader agenda covering trade resilience and market connectivity, the trade ministers were unable to reach a consensus on a joint declaration at the meeting’s conclusion.

Strengthening Emerging Market Cooperation

Minister Al Zeyoudi underscored the increasing importance of cooperation among emerging markets and developing economies, particularly amidst global trade uncertainty. He positioned BRICS as a vital platform for enhancing economic cooperation and fostering an open and predictable trading environment.

The UAE’s engagement in Jaipur reinforced the strength of its economic relationships with fellow BRICS members. This participation signals a clear commitment to translating these high-level discussions into tangible outcomes for businesses and communities.

Key Trade Figures with BRICS Nations

The trade relationship between the UAE and BRICS nations has demonstrated robust growth. Bilateral non-oil foreign trade surpassed US$312 billion in 2025, marking a 28.5% increase compared to US$243 billion recorded in 2024.

In 2025, BRICS nations collectively accounted for approximately 31% of the UAE’s total non-oil foreign trade. They also represented 34% of the UAE’s imports, were the destination for 23% of its non-oil exports, and contributed to 28% of its re-exports during the same period. The meeting with India’s Piyush Goyal also provided an opportunity to review the progress of the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.