Kazakh producers are set to gain enhanced access to the markets of the United Arab Emirates and the wider Gulf region through the opening of a new representative office in Dubai. As part of an active expansion of foreign economic activity in the region, QazTrade JSC—under the Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan—is launching a regional office, QazTrade Dubai, based at the Kazakhstan Pavilion in Dubai.

The pavilion, located within Expo City Dubai, covers an area of 3,420 m², with 2,415 m² designated as functional space. It is equipped with modern office facilities, a multifunctional business event zone, a restaurant, an exhibition gallery, and storage areas. This enables the site to serve as a full-fledged platform for sustainable export operations and trade logistics.

QazTrade Dubai will serve as QazTrade JSC’s international representation and will be responsible for the systematic promotion of Kazakh products in the Gulf countries. Core areas of activity include:

• Adapting Kazakh products to meet regional market requirements;

• Addressing trade and technical barriers;

• Implementing government support mechanisms;

• Developing intergovernmental frameworks for foreign trade regulation.

The pavilion will feature a permanent showroom of Kazakh producers and will host trade missions, B2B meetings, and industry-specific events on an ongoing basis. A dedicated task force has been established to ensure efficient interaction with businesses. This team includes Kazakhstan’s trade representatives in the region and staff from the QazExportPromotion corporate foundation. They provide end-to-end support for exporters, covering market entry, logistics, marketing, product adaptation, and brand promotion.

A key feature of the UAE and Gulf markets is the absence of import restrictions, creating wide-ranging export opportunities for Kazakh products—from foodstuffs to industrial goods. However, intense competition in the region requires impeccable product quality, effective marketing strategies, and strong institutional support.

QazTrade Dubai has already commenced implementation of its strategic objectives. The Kazakhstan Pavilion in Dubai is set to become a central hub for aligning government and business efforts to expand Kazakhstan’s presence in the region. Its activities will span the entire export promotion cycle—from establishing direct sales channels to forging sustainable partnerships with retail chains, distributors, and investors.

According to 2023 trade data, Kazakhstan’s main exports to the UAE included:

• Silver – $55.2 million (42.1%)

• Hydrogen, inert gases, and non-metals – $13.1 million (10%)

• Lamb and goat meat – $8.1 million (6.2%)

• Hot-rolled products of non-alloy steel – $5.2 million (4%)

• Dried leguminous vegetables – $4 million (3.1%)

• Yachts and other recreational watercraft – $3.5 million (2.7%)

• Nitrogen fertilizers – $2.9 million (2.2%)

• Liquid pumps – $2.7 million (2%)

• Slag wool – $2.4 million (1.8%)

The establishment of a Kazakh Trade House in the UAE marks an important step in Kazakhstan’s systemic integration into the Gulf market and opens up new horizons for domestic exports.