Middle East

Policy & Legal Updates

Iran Approves 42 Foreign Investment Projects Worth $228 Million Including China and UAE

Iran's Foreign Investment Board has approved 42 foreign investment applications valued at $228 million across multiple economic sectors, according to the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Finance. The approved capital includes funding from investors in China, the United Arab Emirates, Russia, the United Kingdom, and other nations. Since March 21, 2026, the board has cleared 398 foreign investment projects totaling $3.2 billion.

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE Reports No Cancellations of Planned Foreign Direct Investment in 2026

Mohammad Abdulrahman Alhawi, Undersecretary of the UAE Ministry of Investment, stated that no planned foreign direct investment projects have been cancelled in 2026 despite regional geopolitical tensions. The country remains committed to achieving its target of $65 billion in annual FDI inflows by 2031, supported by domestic infrastructure development and investor partnerships. HSBC estimates that the UAE's planned infrastructure project pipeline exceeds $190 billion in financing requirements.

China–UAE News

Hong Kong Expands Offshore Yuan Financing and GCC Outreach for Belt and Road

Invest Hong Kong announced efforts to expand offshore yuan financing across Belt and Road markets during the Annual Conference of Financial Street Forum 2026 in Beijing. Hong Kong delegations have conducted roadshows in Gulf Cooperation Council countries to foster capital market ties and lower funding costs for infrastructure. The initiative targets clean energy, off-grid power grids, and energy storage, while encouraging mainland firms to expand via Hong Kong.

China–UAE News

China Aluminum Foil Exports Surge in September Driven by UAE and Mexico Demand

China's aluminum foil exports reached 128,200 tonnes in September 2026, marking the second-highest monthly volume of the year according to customs data analyzed by Shanghai Metals Market (SMM). The 6.8% month-on-month increase was propelled by sharp demand rebounds from the UAE and Mexico. Cumulative exports for the first nine months reached 1.0527 million tonnes, up 3.8% year-on-year.