Middle East

China–UAE News

Dubai AI Festival Opens With Over 100 Chinese Technology Firms Participating

The Dubai AI Festival 2026 opened on October 26 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, drawing more than 100 Chinese technology firms. The two-day gathering convenes technology companies, investors, and policymakers to explore commercial artificial intelligence applications across industry and public sectors. DIFC Authority leadership noted that the event serves as a platform to foster bilateral investment and partnerships.

Industry News

World Investment Forum Opens in Doha with Focus on Capital and Infrastructure

The 9th World Investment Forum opened in Doha, bringing together over 5,000 delegates to address cross-border capital allocation. China's Vice Minister of Commerce joined Gulf trade ministers and investors to examine bilateral capital deployment and economic zones. UNCTAD highlighted that cross-border investment into essential infrastructure in developing nations dropped by over 25 percent in early 2026.

Industry News

Gulf States Earmark Over $250 Billion for AI and Data Centers

A report from the Bloomsbury Intelligence and Security Institute indicates Gulf states have allocated over $250 billion for AI and digital ecosystems. Regional computing capacity is projected to expand from 1 gigawatt in 2025 to 3.3 gigawatts by 2030. The analysis highlights the challenge of balancing Western semiconductor compliance with critical tech ties to China.

Middle East Travel Alerts

ICAO Withdraws 13-Year-Old Safety Warning on Syrian Airspace, Damascus Says

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has withdrawn a 13-year-old safety advisory regarding Syrian airspace, Syria's civil aviation authority announced. The decision allows international airlines and national regulators to reassess overflights and services to Syrian airports based on updated risk assessments. Syrian officials noted that the move does not automatically remove operational restrictions imposed independently by specific countries.