Dubai strengthens trade partnership with China

Dubai is strengthening its long-standing trade partnership with China, positioning Chinese enterprises as key contributors to the emirate's next phase of economic growth and global integration, Dubai Chambers said in a recent press release.

Bilateral trade between China and the United Arab Emirates reached $101.8 billion in 2024, data from China Customs show. By the end of 2025, more than 6,400 Chinese companies were registered as active members of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, with strong footings in wholesale and retail, real estate, construction, and logistics. In 2025 alone, 1,583 new Chinese firms joined, marking a 7% year-on-year increase.

The expanding presence of Chinese businesses aligns closely with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to double the size of Dubai's economy within a decade. Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, president and CEO of Dubai Chambers, said, "China's expertise in future-facing sectors aligns with Dubai's D33 objectives, creating opportunities for collaboration in areas including AI, advanced manufacturing, and clean technology."

The Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, one of the three chambers operating under Dubai Chambers, supported the launch and expansion of 1,690 digital startups in 2025, up nearly 40% from the previous year, with AI and fintech accounting for a significant share. Chinese startups were among the participants at Dubai's 2025 "Expand North Star" conference, reflecting growing technology cooperation.

With three representative offices in Shanghai, Shenzhen and Hong Kong, Dubai Chambers said it is stepping up support for Chinese firms seeking to use Dubai as a gateway to the Middle East and beyond. The Dubai Business Forum is scheduled to take place in Shenzhen on May 14, as part of efforts to deepen engagement and attract further Chinese investment.