UAE Emerges as the World’s Leading Buyer of Turkish Jewelry in Q1 2025 as Gold Trade Surges Across Gulf

United Arab Emirates Gems News: Gold Rush Between Türkiye and UAE Hits Historic High In a dazzling development in the global jewelry trade, the United Arab Emirates has officially become the top buyer of Turkish jewelry products for the first quarter of 2025. With a staggering $1.2 billion worth of Turkish jewelry imported in just three months, the UAE has outshone traditional markets such as the United States, Switzerland, and Hong Kong—firmly cementing its role as a global powerhouse in the luxury and precious metals sector.

Title: UAE emerges as the largest buyer of Turkish Jewelry
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According to figures released by Turkish trade authorities, Türkiye’s overall exports saw a modest increase of 2.5% in Q1 2025, totaling $65.3 billion. But within this figure, the jewelry sector sparkled brightly, contributing $2.5 billion—or 3.9%—to total exports. Notably, $2.1 billion of that came from jewelers’ gold products alone, underscoring the enduring appeal of gold jewelry among buyers in the Gulf region. This United Arab Emirates Gems News report highlights that the UAE’s surge in imports represents an increase of $838.4 million compared to the same period last year, a remarkable jump that reflects intensifying bilateral trade and the UAE’s growing appetite for high-value jewelry assets.

Breakdown of Türkiye’s Jewelry Exports

In addition to gold, Türkiye’s Q1 exports also included $347.3 million in unprocessed or semi-processed gold, $90.4 million in silver jewelry, and $31.7 million in unprocessed or semi-processed silver. Lesser, though still significant, segments included $3.9 million in imitation jewelry, $3.2 million in precious metal watches and parts, and $1.9 million in goods made from cultured pearls and other precious stones.

The top exporting Turkish provinces were led by Istanbul, shipping out an impressive $1.9 billion in jewelry. Çorum followed with $646.1 million, while coastal city Trabzon contributed $30.5 million. Other notable contributors included Kastamonu ($16.4 million), Ankara ($5.6 million), and Sakarya ($3 million).

Global Demand Shifts as UAE Dominates the Luxury Sector

With the U.S. importing $199.5 million, Switzerland $181.5 million, and Hong Kong $128 million worth of Turkish jewelry, it’s clear that Türkiye remains a major hub for high-quality jewelry production. But the UAE’s massive lead underscores a tectonic shift in global demand for luxury goods—moving increasingly toward the Middle East. The influx of high-net-worth individuals into Dubai and Abu Dhabi, combined with favorable tax structures and a booming retail jewelry market, has made the UAE an irresistible magnet for premium imports.

This booming trade partnership also signals stronger geopolitical and economic ties between Türkiye and the Gulf states, with gold acting as a glittering bridge.

Türkiye’s position as a major exporter and the UAE’s dominance as a buyer suggest this trend is only set to accelerate in the coming quarters. With luxury consumer confidence strong across the Gulf and Türkiye continually refining its craftsmanship and supply chain efficiencies, the jewelry trade between both nations is poised for even more radiant growth in 2025.

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