The emirate witnessed exports worth $8.93 billion during the first six months of the year compared to $6.4 billion during the corresponding period last year, revealed a statistics by Dubai Customs.

Non-oil trade increased 18 percent to $76 billion during the period compared to $64.69 billion in the first half of the year 2009, it added.

The trade between Dubai and other countries around the world on an average grew by 17 percent in past five years, hinting that the emirate is "still enjoying an attractive business hub status for all traders and investors", said Ahmed Butti Ahmed, the executive chairman of Dubai Ports, Customs and Free Zone and the Director-General of Dubai Customs.

Saudi Arabia topped the list of trading partners in the region as Dubai's trade with GCC countries rose by 10 percent to $3 billion in the first half of this year compared to $2.72 billion during the corresponding period in 2009, the report said.

The Kingdom's trade with the emirate witnessed a growth of 36 percent to $1.08 billion during the period. Kuwait came second with $571.75 million of total trade. Oman, Qatar and Bahrain recorded bilateral trade worth $544.52 million, $435.62 million and $326.71 million respectively, it added.

These figures "significantly prove Dubai's competitiveness and its ability to accommodate itself into the global markets," said Ahmed.

The total value of Dubai's imports during the first half of the current year increased to $48.29 billions - a 13 percent increase from $42.6 billion over the same period last year.

"This really indicates availability of a growing purchasing power in Dubai and lucrative opportunities for companies seeking to enhance base of trading activities in the emirate or through the local neighboring markets," said Ahmed.

Re-exports recorded 20 percent growth during the first six months of the current year to $18.78 billion against $15.65 billion during the same period last year.

"The re-export regained its normal growth pace which slowed down due to the global credit crunch. Integral infrastructure facilities and logistics benefited Dubai as it eased handling of cargoes, facilitating the required basics for traders and investors," said Ahmed.

"The Export Support Program and efforts made for opening new markets, besides the joint venture deals signed with many countries around the world, the strategic geographical situation and other factors have altogether paved the way to Dubai to lead a vital local role for the re-export sectors," he added.

The emirate is already the world's third-largest re-export center after Hong Kong and Singapore. Trade accounts for close to 40 percent of Dubai's GDP, while services make up more than 25 percent of the economy.