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United Arab Emirates

China–UAE News
Source: Mubadala Investment Company

Mubadala Partners with Rolex Shanghai Masters in First Asian Sports Sponsorship

Abu Dhabi sovereign investor Mubadala Investment Company has signed an official sponsorship agreement with the Rolex Shanghai Masters tennis tournament. The partnership marks Mubadala's first sports sponsorship in Asia and its first collaboration with an ATP 1000 event. The sovereign fund has invested in China since 2015 and maintains an office in Beijing.

Policy & Legal Updates
Source: VATupdate

UAE Sets Strict Conditions for Input VAT Recovery on Employee Expenses

The UAE Federal Tax Authority issued FTA Decision No. 17 of 2026, defining specific conditions for taxable businesses to recover input VAT on employee expenses. Effective October 1, 2026, the framework regulates benefits provided free of charge, including accommodation, transport, meals, and medical insurance. Businesses cannot claim VAT if cash alternatives are offered or if supplies serve personal benefits.

China–UAE News
Source: UAE-China Chamber of Commerce

Chinese Direct Investment in UAE Hits $2.6B Amid Expanding Financial and Energy Ties

China's outbound direct investment into the UAE reached $2.6 billion, more than tripling compared to the previous reporting year and making the UAE the top Middle Eastern recipient of Chinese direct investment capital. Beijing-based China Securities obtained regulatory approvals to establish a regional office in the Dubai International Financial Centre, where Chinese banks now represent over 30 percent of total banking and capital markets assets. Concurrently, major Chinese firms including Sinopec, CNPC, CNOOC, CATL, and Envision Energy are slated to participate in ADIPEC 2026 in Abu Dhabi.

Policy & Legal Updates
Source: Emirates News Agency (WAM)

Dubai Human Resources Council and Majid Al Futtaim Partner on Emirati Employment

The Emirati Human Resources Development Council in Dubai and retail conglomerate Majid Al Futtaim signed a cooperation agreement to enhance career pathways for UAE nationals. Concluded at Ru'ya, Careers UAE 2026, the initiative will provide targeted recruitment, career counselling, and specialised skills development. The partnership aims to align national workforce capabilities with private sector market demands.

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