A Rising Power in Gold
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has established itself over the past decade as a major hub for gold trading and refining. Thanks to its strategic geographic location between Asia, Africa, and Europe, as well as world-class infrastructure in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the UAE now hosts some of the largest gold trading and storage centers in the world.
The UAE has officially surpassed the United Kingdom to become the second-largest gold trading hub globally, with over $120 billion in total trade, according to Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman of the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC). This represents a year-on-year increase of more than 36%, placing the UAE just behind Switzerland.
“There is a big gap between us and Switzerland, and I still have a lot to learn from them,” he said humorously at the Dubai Precious Metals Conference (DPMC). He also highlighted that nearly 45% of this trade now flows through the DMCC and the Dubai Gold and Commodities Exchange, further reinforcing Dubai’s central role in the global precious metals landscape.
Over the past five years, the UAE has tripled its gold trade, reflecting a strategic eastward shift in the global market, with Dubai as the main anchor point. The DMCC today hosts 25,000 active members across sectors ranging from gold and diamonds to coffee, tea, and energy.
The Impact of Global Conflicts on Gold Prices
In 2025, geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, Ukraine, and Southeast Asia, have strongly affected financial market stability. Gold, the ultimate safe-haven asset, has seen a surge in prices. The precious metal trades around $2,400 per ounce, reaching historic levels.
This price surge directly benefits hubs like Dubai, where trading volumes and refining margins are increasing. Investors, concerned about inflation and volatile currencies, are moving their capital into physical gold and gold-backed ETFs.
Investment Opportunities in the UAE
The United Arab Emirates offers several opportunities for investors interested in gold:
- Investment in trading and refining: Participate in the capital of local gold refining or trading companies, or invest in storage infrastructure.
- Purchase of physical gold in Dubai: With nearly zero taxes, transparent markets, and legal security, Dubai is one of the best places to buy, store, or sell gold.
- Creation of digital gold funds or platforms: The market is favorable for fintechs offering tokenized or digitized gold services to meet growing global demand.
- Development of tourism and commercial offers around gold: Luxury tourism related to gold—jewelry, refinery tours, exclusive circuits—is a booming market.
Conclusion
In 2025, the United Arab Emirates solidifies its position as a global gold hub. Driven by booming trade, geopolitical instability, and modern infrastructure like the DMCC, the country is a prime destination for international investors. Gold, more than ever, shines in Dubai.
