Iraq has become one of the top export destinations for the UAE emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, showing how quickly economic ties between the two are growing.
During the first nine months of 2025, exports from Ras Al Khaimah to Iraq reached about $327 million. That trade was backed by 992 certificates of origin, according to the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Iraq ranked fourth among Ras Al Khaimah’s export markets — behind only Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Kuwait.
These numbers highlight Iraq’s growing role as a key regional market, especially as the country increases imports to support infrastructure projects, reconstruction, and rising local demand.
Most of the goods heading to Iraq include construction materials, industrial supplies, and everyday consumer products tied to rebuilding and population growth.
Better logistics have also played a big role.
Ports in Basra, especially Umm Qasr, have become major entry points for Gulf exports. At the same time, overland routes through Kuwait and southern Iraq are being used more often as security conditions continue to improve.
UAE companies are also expanding their use of regional shipping and storage hubs to reach Iraqi markets beyond the south.
Overall, the trend shows a clear shift: Iraq is becoming an increasingly important trade partner for Gulf manufacturers, with Ras Al Khaimah right at the center of that growth.
