Saudi Arabia

China–UAE News

Chinese EV Brands Accelerate Market Expansion Across UAE and Gulf Region

Chinese electric and hybrid vehicle manufacturers are increasingly focusing on the Gulf Cooperation Council as tariffs and regulatory barriers restrict Western market access, according to Asia Times. Industry estimates indicate the UAE represented approximately 42% of the GCC electric vehicle market in 2025, supported by roughly 2,800 charging points. Automakers including BYD, Geely, and Chery are expanding distribution networks, after-sales operations, and charging partnerships across the region.

Policy & Legal Updates

Saudi Arabia Consults on Data Protection Implementing Regulation Reforms

The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority has opened a public consultation on proposed amendments to the Implementing Regulation of the Personal Data Protection Law. The proposed revisions include changes to breach notifications, data subject access requests, direct marketing consent, and record retention requirements. The consultation closes on 5 November 2026, with the revised rules entering into force 60 days after official gazette publication.

Industry News

China’s Fangda Group Wins 2.05 Billion Yuan Saudi World Cup Stadium Contract

China-based Fangda Group announced that its 51%-owned joint venture secured a major curtain wall contract for the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium in Saudi Arabia. Valued at 1.147 billion Saudi riyals (approx. 2.05 billion yuan), the contract spans 863 days. The deal accounts for roughly 60.7% of the group's audited total revenue for 2025.

China–UAE News

Chinese Automakers Expand Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Presence Across Gulf Markets

Chinese vehicle manufacturers including BYD, Geely, and Li Auto are expanding dealership networks and distribution partnerships in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. In 2025, electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles represented approximately 9% of new-vehicle sales in the UAE, which accounted for an estimated 42% of the GCC electric vehicle market.