China

Policy & Legal Updates

US Iran Sanctions Campaign Strains China-Dubai Trade and Banking Compliance

US Treasury measures against Iran place an increasing investigative burden on foreign banks to monitor opaque cross-border transactions, including transfers disguised between Hong Kong and Dubai companies. Prior to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, China bought an estimated 90% of Iran's oil exports, with trade largely settling in renminbi through shadow-banking channels. Secondary sanctions under Operation Economic Outcast threaten to cut non-compliant foreign institutions off from dollar clearing.

China–UAE News

Hongqi Debuts G919 New-Energy Vehicle in UAE at Abu Dhabi Reception

Chinese automotive brand Hongqi unveiled its G919 model in the Middle East during a reception at the Chinese Embassy in Abu Dhabi. The vehicle features a body-on-frame build, a 2.0-liter turbocharged range-extender system, and four electric motors. Hongqi confirmed plans to expand its sales and service network across the UAE and the broader region.

China–UAE News

AIIB Transitions Abu Dhabi Interim Hub Into Permanent Regional Office

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank has formally converted its Abu Dhabi interim operational hub into a permanent regional office. The location anchors infrastructure and trade financing connecting Asia, the Gulf Cooperation Council, and Africa. Capitalized at $100 billion, the Beijing-based lender will leverage the base to expand sovereign and private-sector partnerships.

China–UAE News

ARIDGE and Ras Al Khaimah Partner on Flying Car Regulatory Sandbox

Chinese flying car developer ARIDGE has partnered with Ras Al Khaimah to launch an Advanced Air Mobility regulatory sandbox under UAE General Civil Aviation Authority oversight. The collaboration makes ARIDGE the first Chinese flying car firm in a national-level Middle East regulatory testing program. The initiative includes regional desert flight tests and an experimental flight route connecting Ras Al Khaimah and Abu Dhabi.