ABU DHABI / RankWire.AI / – In 2025, the UAE’s outward foreign direct investment was valued at $63.353 billion, according to UN Trade and Development. By the end of the year, the country’s total outward FDI stock reached $402.729 billion. This marks a substantial increase from $55.560 billion in 2010. The rise indicates a notable growth in the value of UAE investments held abroad. Today, overseas capital from the UAE spans major economies, emerging markets, and a wide range of industries globally.
The UAE’s international investment portfolio covers sectors such as energy, transport, technology, manufacturing, financial services, healthcare, and real estate. Infrastructure, ports, and logistics also constitute a significant portion of the country’s foreign holdings. Sovereign investors, state-affiliated companies, and private enterprises all contribute to these international 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 about $723 billion after an 11% rise. Meanwhile, developing nations drew roughly $901 billion, up 2%. The world’s top 20 host economies received over 80% of total global investment flows. Despite the overall growth, these figures demonstrate that international investment continues to concentrate among leading markets.
Sovereign Investors Sustain Global Asset Portfolios
Mubadala Investment Company maintains a significant share of its global portfolio in North America. The region makes up 44% of its investments and includes over 80 direct holdings. Mubadala reports assets under management of around $170 billion in North America. Europe accounts for 15%, while Asia-Pacific represents 13%. Latin America and the Caribbean comprise an additional 1%. The company’s investments span sectors such as technology, energy, healthcare, industry, finance, and infrastructure across major markets.
The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority also allocates its capital across various regions. Its long-term strategic plan designates 45% to 60% of assets to North America. Europe is targeted for 15% to 30%. Emerging markets account for 10% to 20%, and developed Asia for 5% to 10%. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Trade has emphasized the country’s growing network of international economic partnerships. Its Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements facilitate trade and investment with partner nations.
Transport Sector Expands Overseas Investment Reach
AD Ports Group exemplifies the UAE’s expanding international business footprint. Throughout 2025, the company managed 34 ports and terminals both domestically and abroad. It also maintained offices in over 50 countries. Its broader commercial network reaches 158 nations directly or through representatives. The group’s operations combine ports, maritime transport, logistics, and economic zones across multiple trade routes. Its international presence spans Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
Since 2010, the UAE’s outward FDI stock has increased more than sevenfold. The latest data shows total overseas investment surpassing $400 billion in 2025. UAE capital now extends to mature economies and emerging markets across diverse sectors. After two years of decline, global investment flows also experienced an uptick. The combined data of annual outflows and accumulated foreign assets illustrates the scale of UAE investors’ foreign holdings. It offers a clear view of the country’s growing footprint in international investments.