Dubai and Iran Trade Persists Secretly, Economic Ties Prove Hard to Break

Old Dubai markets continue to receive saffron, cumin, pistachios, and almonds from Iran despite the United Arab Emirates announcing the suspension of trade and financial exchanges with Tehran last month. The UAE had previously taken this step following regional conflict and tightening tensions across the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Data shows that in 2024, the UAE served as the main entry point for goods into Iran, accounting for over 30 percent of imports worth 21 billion dollars. Wholesalers operating in the emirate report that goods are still being successfully brought in through alternative routes, notably via Omani ports and direct air links from Mashhad.

'We can't export from the Emirates anymore, but we can still bring in certain goods,' said an anonymous wholesaler.

Analysts note that Abu Dhabi's official suspension aims to align the Gulf nation with United States pressure and bring Tehran back to the negotiating table. However, experts like Mehran Haghirian argue that informal flows between private actors will likely persist because the commercial chunk cannot easily be replaced without impacting Dubai's economy.

Iranian merchants in Bur Dubai remain confident that trade will survive the current crisis as long-standing familial and business ties bridge the Gulf waters.