Dubai Positions Chinese Manufacturing and AI Investment at Core of Economic Growth

Officials at the Dubai Business Forum – China announced initiatives to integrate Chinese manufacturing and artificial intelligence enterprises into Dubai's economic growth strategy. Bilateral non-oil trade between Dubai and China reached approximately AED 363.5 billion ($99 billion) in 2025, up 118.4 percent since 2016. Dubai aims to transition from a regional distribution hub into a Chinese industrial and co-manufacturing center.

Published October 14, 2026 Source: Arabian Business

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Officials speaking at the Dubai Business Forum – China announced plans to place Chinese manufacturing and artificial intelligence enterprises at the center of Dubai's future economic development, according to Arabian Business.

Bilateral non-oil trade between Dubai and China reached roughly AED 363.5 billion ($99 billion) in 2025, representing a 118.4 percent increase compared to 2016 levels. Over the same timeframe, Dubai attracted more than 300 Chinese foreign direct investment projects with a combined value surpassing AED 24.6 billion ($6.7 billion).

UAE authorities emphasized Dubai's infrastructure as a platform for Chinese technology firms, specifically highlighting sectors such as autonomous driving, electric aviation, and digital finance.

The initiative aims to transition Dubai's commercial role from a regional distribution point into a specialized Chinese industrial and co-manufacturing center.