Middle East

Industry News

Future Center Assesses BRICS as China’s Strategic Lever in AI Race

An analysis by the Abu Dhabi-based Future Center explores whether China can leverage the expanded BRICS grouping to advance its global artificial intelligence standing. Beijing has proposed initiatives including an open-source AI community, shared cloud infrastructure, and joint capacity building across member states. The assessment highlights opportunities and strategic considerations for member economies navigating global technology competition.

China–UAE News

Chinese Direct Investment in UAE Hits $2.6 Billion as Financial Footprint Expands

China's outbound direct investment to the UAE reached $2.6 billion, more than tripling the previous year's total as overall Middle East flows doubled. In parallel, Beijing-based China Securities secured regulatory approvals to open a regional office in the Dubai International Financial Centre. Chinese banking institutions now account for over 30 percent of total assets in DIFC's Banking and Capital Markets sector.

Industry News

Reports Detail Iranian Training and Chinese Commercial Parts in Houthi Arsenal

Yemen's Houthi rebels have expanded territorial control along the Red Sea coast using weapons assembled with Iranian training and imported commercial parts from China, according to media reports cited by Chosunbiz. The military expansion has impacted critical maritime transit routes, contributing to volatility in global oil prices. Intercepted cargo shipments inspected in July reportedly contained commercial dual-use components adaptable for missile and drone manufacturing.

China–UAE News

Gulf Tourism Rebounds as Dubai Targets Chinese Visitors and Industry Partnerships

More than 2,800 exhibitors participated in the Arabian Travel Market 2026 in Dubai, where the "Nihao! China" pavilion facilitated business negotiations between Chinese and foreign tourism entities. Data from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism shows Dubai welcomed 6.97 million international overnight visitors in the first eight months of 2026, with August recording 869,000 visitors. Dubai tourism officials are strengthening partnerships with Chinese digital platforms, including Ctrip, Xiaohongshu, and Meituan, to encourage the return of Chinese travelers.