Saudi Arabia

China–UAE News

US and China Compete for AI and Cloud Infrastructure Across the Gulf

Chinese technology investments in the Gulf Arab states are increasingly intersecting with American technology footprints, particularly across the UAE and Saudi Arabia. While China supplies cloud services, 5G networks, and smart-city systems, the US provides advanced graphics processing units and leading foundation models. Both regional governments are simultaneously pursuing sovereign computing capabilities while balancing partnerships across both ecosystems.

Policy & Legal Updates

Five GCC Nations Close to Starting Schengen Visa Exemption Process, Official Says

GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Al Budaiwi stated that Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and Kuwait are close to beginning the official process for Schengen visa-free travel. A formal announcement is expected at the second EU-GCC Summit in Riyadh on October 24. Currently, the UAE is the only GCC member state whose citizens can travel to the Schengen Area without a visa.

Industry News

Emirates Perfumes Exhibition and Middle East Cosmetics Show Open in Sharjah

The fourth Emirates Perfumes and Oud Exhibition and second Middle East Cosmetics Show opened at Expo Centre Sharjah. Running through October 18, the event hosts over 200 companies and 700 brands, including participants from China and the Gulf.

Middle East Travel Alerts

Etihad Extends Abu Dhabi-Riyadh Flight Cancellations Following Saudi Airport Advisory

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has updated its travel advisory to warn against all but essential travel to the entirety of Saudi Arabia. The decision follows drone and missile strikes by Yemen's Houthi movement that targeted critical transport and energy infrastructure, including Riyadh's international airport. British authorities also cautioned that non-compliant travel risks invalidating travel insurance policies.