Dubai Expands Global Business Outreach Through China
The fifth International Dubai Business Forum will be held on May 14, 2026, in Shenzhen, one of China’s fastest-growing innovation hubs. The announcement was made by Dubai Chambers, highlighting the forum’s goal of expanding Dubai’s global business network and reinforcing its position as a leading destination for foreign direct investment (FDI).
This will mark the second time the forum is hosted in China, following the successful 2024 edition in Beijing.
Dubai Focuses on Digital Economy Growth
D33 Economic Agenda at the Core
Speaking at a press conference in Shenzhen, Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, said the forum aims to create practical digital pathways that help Chinese companies expand internationally through Dubai.
He stressed that the digital economy is a key pillar of the D33 Dubai Economic Agenda, which targets increasing the digital sector’s contribution to 20 percent of Dubai’s total economy by 2033, with an estimated value of 200 billion yuan.
Opportunities for Chinese Technology and AI Firms
Dubai Seeks AI and Service-Based Companies
Lootah highlighted that Dubai offers strong opportunities for Chinese digital enterprises, including startups and AI service providers, to establish and scale their operations.
He noted that Dubai is actively seeking AI-driven service companies, especially those that can support industries such as healthcare, smart services, and technology-enabled solutions. The city is focused not only on developing artificial intelligence but also on using AI to enhance multiple economic sectors.
Dubai Chambers plans to attract more AI and digital service companies to support economic growth and improve overall quality of life.
Dubai’s Strategic Access to Global Markets
Gateway to the Middle East, Africa, and Beyond
Lootah emphasized Dubai’s strategic role as a regional and global business hub, offering companies direct access to markets across the Middle East, Africa, and other regions. Businesses operating from Dubai can reach more than 70 international markets efficiently.
He also pointed out that the United Arab Emirates has signed bilateral trade agreements with 27 countries, allowing companies that manufacture in the UAE to export goods duty-free to these markets. This provides a major advantage for global manufacturers and exporters.
Strong China–UAE Trade Relationship
According to official data, the UAE is China’s largest trading partner in the Arab world. Nearly 60 percent of Chinese exports passing through the UAE are re-exported to over 400 cities across the Middle East and North Africa, reinforcing the UAE’s role as a key international trade hub.
In 2024, China accounted for 80.8 percent of electric vehicles imported into Dubai, followed by Germany and the United States.
Rapid Growth of Chinese Businesses in Dubai
The number of active Chinese companies registered with Dubai Chambers has increased significantly, rising from 2,056 in 2015 to 6,355 by November 2025. This represents a growth of over 200 percent, reflecting strong confidence in Dubai’s business-friendly environment.
