DHL Global Connectedness Index 2020 places the UAE in the top five globally as it remains 'resilient' to the global pandemic

Dubai ranks fifth in International Shipping Centre Development Index for 2nd consecutive year

Dubai is first Arab city to join the ranks of Singapore, Hong Kong, London and Shanghai.

The Gulf emirate is ideally placed geographically and economically for 21st-century growth, with DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) playing a central role.

Trade routes are the stuff of legend, bringing exotic goods, wealth and new ideas across the globe. Historically, the Silk Road linked the major ancient civilisations of China and the Roman Empire; the Spice Route maritime passages went from the East Indies to Europe; and frankincense and myrrh were transported on the Incense Route from the Arabian Peninsula to the Mediterranean.

Beads were traded along the Amber Route between the Baltic and Egypt; the Tea Route ran from China through Tibet to India; and the Salt Route went from Ostia, near Rome, across Italy to the Adriatic coast.