Exports and re-exports from Dubai top Dh91b

Dubai: In the first half of 2006, Dubai's exports and re-exports exceeded Dh91 billion, according to the Dubai Department of Economic Development.

Dubai exported goods worth nearly Dh51 billion and re-exported goods worth nearly Dh40 billion.

"Dubai's GDP [gross domestic product] has more than tripled in the past 10 years, with the non-oil sector showing double-digit growth and contributing more to the economy every year," said Khalid Al Kassim, deputy director-general of planning and development in the department and chairman of the Dubai Export Development Corporation.

Al Kassim launched a department initiative yesterday to support small and medium-sized exporters in the UAE.

The department, in cooperation with the Geneva-based International Trade Centre, released two handbooks Export Quality Management and Trade Secrets in the UAE.

The handbooks cover export quality management and control, and provide vital info to entrepreneurs in the UAE.

According to the department, 75 per cent to 80 per cent of the contribution to Dubai's economy comes from small and medium enterprises.

"This is the result of a conscious effort by the government to provide an investment-friendly climate and encourage small business growth," he said.

Al Kassim said "the books are building blocks in our overall efforts to support SMEs and the export and re-export sectors in Dubai, in addition to the UAE as a whole. They contain a multitude of useful information about procedures and quality reverences for exporters in and outside the UAE. "

Al Kassim said the Dubai government was working towards becoming the trading hub of the Middle East, a bridge between the East and the West.

"With free trade zones, ports and ever expanding airports, we are on the right road. To further energise the economy, we support small and medium enterprises and provide them with the necessary tools to grow." he said.

The department produces comprehensive literature that focuses on SMEs, advising them on various aspects of business.