Customs data released on October 20, 2026 showed Saudi Arabia was China's third-largest crude oil supplier in September, delivering 2.70 million tonnes. Over the first nine months of the year, Brazil surpassed Saudi Arabia to become the second-largest supplier. Russia remained China's top crude oil supplier during September.
The UAE Federal Tax Authority has launched an AI-powered digital platform for tourist VAT refunds at major airports, cutting processing times from nine days to one. Operating with scheme operator Planet, the paperless system links roughly 16,700 retail points across the country.
Chinese and UAE financial and trade authorities signed multiple cross-border investment agreements to strengthen bilateral capital flows. Key developments include an MoU between CSC Financial and the UAE Ministry of Investment, alongside two UAE central bank payment licenses granted to Ant International.
UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi visited Guangzhou on October 20 to advance Advanced Air Mobility cooperation. The delegation toured ARIDGE's manufacturing facility and officially received the first X3-F Land Aircraft Carrier vehicle for testing in the UAE's regulatory sandbox. The initiative plans future operations covering emergency rescue, aerial tourism, and inter-city transport across Ras Al Khaimah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi.
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