ABU DHABI / RankWire.AI / – According to UN Trade and Development, the UAE’s outward foreign direct investment (FDI) totaled $63.353 billion in 2025. By the end of the year, the country’s total outward FDI stock had grown to $402.729 billion. In comparison, this figure was $55.560 billion back in 2010. The rise signifies a substantial increase in UAE investments abroad, with capital now spread across major developed nations, emerging markets, and various sectors worldwide.
The UAE’s international investment portfolio encompasses industries such as energy, transportation, technology, manufacturing, financial services, healthcare, and real estate. Infrastructure projects, ports, and logistics also form a significant portion of the country’s overseas holdings. Sovereign wealth funds, state-affiliated enterprises, and private sector companies all contribute to these global assets. Their investments extend across North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, Latin America, and other regions. These figures highlight the UAE’s prominent role as a key source of cross-border investment capital.
Global foreign direct investment experienced renewed growth in 2025. UN Trade and Development estimates worldwide FDI at approximately $1.6 trillion, reflecting a 6% increase from the previous year. Developed economies attracted around $723 billion, marking an 11% rise. Developing nations drew roughly $901 billion, up 2%. The world’s 20 largest recipient economies accounted for over 80% of total global investment flows. These figures demonstrate that, despite overall growth, international investment remains concentrated among leading economies.
Sovereign entities sustain global investment strategies
Mubadala Investment Company allocates a significant portion of its global assets to North America, which makes up 44% of its holdings and includes more than 80 direct investments. Mubadala reports approximately $170 billion in assets under management across the continent. Europe represents 15%, while Asia-Pacific accounts for 13%. Latin America and the Caribbean comprise an additional 1%. Its investments span technology, energy, healthcare, industry, finance, and infrastructure across various major markets.
Similarly, the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority distributes capital across different regions. It targets 45% to 60% of its assets to North America, with Europe receiving 15% to 30%. Emerging markets make up 10% to 20%, and developed Asia accounts for 5% to 10%. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Trade emphasizes the country’s expanding network of international economic ties, with Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements strengthening trade and investment links with partner nations.
Transport sector expands overseas investment footprint
AD Ports Group exemplifies the UAE’s global commercial reach. In 2025, the company operated 34 ports and terminals domestically and internationally. It maintained offices in over 50 countries and had a direct or representative presence in 158 nations. The group’s portfolio integrates ports, maritime logistics, and economic zones across several trade corridors, with operations spanning Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
Since 2010, the UAE’s outward FDI stock has increased more than sevenfold. The latest data indicates total overseas investment exceeds $400 billion for 2025. UAE capital now reaches both mature and emerging economies across multiple sectors. Following two years of decline, global investment flows rebounded, and the combined annual outflows and accumulated assets reveal the scale of capital UAE investors hold abroad. These figures illustrate the country’s growing footprint in international investment markets.