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United Arab Emirates

China–UAE News
Source: South China Morning Post

Saudi Central Bank Exits China-Backed mBridge Cross-Border Currency Platform

The Saudi Central Bank confirmed on September 22, 2026, that it has ended its formal participation in the mBridge cross-border digital currency platform. The initiative continues to operate with central banks from mainland China, Hong Kong, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, and Macau. Analysts cited by the South China Morning Post noted that the exit removes the Gulf's largest economy from direct membership.

China–UAE News
Source: Gulf Today

Alibaba Plans UAE Data Centre Expansion Over Next 12 Months

Chinese technology firm Alibaba announced plans to enlarge its data centre facilities in the United Arab Emirates alongside several other international markets over the next 12 months. The expansion is part of a plan to surpass 20 gigawatts of global data centre capacity by 2032 to support artificial intelligence workloads. The company also introduced a new AI chip called Zhenwu V900.

Policy & Legal Updates
Source: PwC Middle East

UAE Cabinet Amends VAT Executive Regulation Under Decision No. 149 of 2026

The UAE Cabinet has issued Cabinet Decision No. 149 of 2026, amending Cabinet Decision No. 52 of 2017 on the Executive Regulation of Value Added Tax. The updates introduce statutory criteria for composite supplies, modify input tax recovery on employee accommodation and medical supplies, and restrict deductions on cash transactions exceeding specific thresholds. Most provisions take effect on 1 October 2026, with input tax apportionment rules applying from the first tax year starting after 1 October 2027.

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