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Dubai-China Trade Reaches $99 Billion as Chinese Investment Projects Surge

Bilateral trade between Dubai and China reached approximately $99 billion, with non-oil trade expanding by 118.4 percent compared to 2016 levels. Chinese direct investment projects in Dubai increased to 91 in 2025, up from 11 in 2021. In regional finance, Qatar's Lesha Bank and ChinaAMC partnered to launch a Shari'a-compliant China equity fund.

Published Source: Arabian Business
Two businessmen shaking hands at an MoU signing ceremony between China Asset Management HK and Lesha Bank
Photo: Arabian Business

Bilateral trade between Dubai and China reached approximately $99 billion amid accelerating commercial cooperation, according to figures released at the Dubai Business Forum – China. Non-oil trade between Dubai and China grew by 118.4 percent compared to 2016 levels, reported Arabian Business.

Inward Chinese direct investment into Dubai recorded significant gains, with total projects increasing to 91 in 2025 compared to 11 in 2021. Economic development officials identified targeted sectors for incoming Chinese capital as advanced manufacturing, logistics, and artificial intelligence.

In broader Gulf-China capital market developments, Qatar-based Lesha Bank LLC (Public) signed a memorandum of understanding with China Asset Management -Hong Kong- Limited (ChinaAMC) to strengthen investment and business cooperation between China and the GCC region. The partnership will introduce a Shari'a-compliant China equity fund available in Qatar.

The fund targets sectors including artificial intelligence and technology, advanced manufacturing, innovative pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy. Operating under an "All China" active equity strategy, Lesha Bank will serve as the investment manager while ChinaAMC (HK) acts as sub-investment manager handling investment decisions and liquidity management.

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