Kenya's fifth-largest trade partner is the United Arab Emirates.

According to the United Nations COMTRADE database on international commerce, Kenya's imports from the United Arab Emirates totaled USD 866.79 million in 2020. The primary items exported from the UAE to Kenya are Mineral fuels, oils, distillation products, Electrical, electronic equipment, salt, sulphur, earth, stone, plaster, lime and cement, copper, arms and ammunition, parts and accessories, Iron and Steel, Vehicles other than railway, tramway. Recently a UAE trade delegation inked new memorandums of understanding to strengthen bilateral economic ties.

The total value of commerce between the two nations was KES. 173 billion (EUR. 1.634 billion). As a result, the UAE became Kenya's fourth largest commercial partner, as well as the Middle East's largest trading partner and export destination.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) intends to establish a comprehensive economic partnership agreement with Kenya in order to strengthen its position as a worldwide trade and investment gateway.

Dubai, being the Middle East's economic and trading powerhouse, has long been considered as the commerce gateway between Kenya and the rest of the globe. However, the two nations' relationship has been defined by a massive trade imbalance in favour of the UAE.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, has identified Kenya, the largest economy in East Africa, as "one of the most potential commercial partners for Dubai" in the future years.

'We are seeking for a win-win collaboration with Kenya,' said Dubai Chamber President and CEO Hamad Buamim. 'We think Dubai offers the key to unlocking Kenya's economic potential,' says the statement.