Banking, fintech, funds, capital markets and cross-border investment
HSBC plans to open a new wealth management centre in Abu Dhabi in December 2026 as part of its ongoing Gulf expansion. The move supports increasing cross-border capital flows from Middle Eastern high-net-worth clients into Asian hubs such as Hong Kong and Singapore. An HSBC survey also found that 97% of institutional investors across 16 markets view the UAE as an attractive investment destination.
GCC Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi met with China's Vice Minister of Commerce Li Chenggang on October 25, 2026, in Doha. The officials reviewed bilateral economic ties and assessed progress made by negotiating groups on the China-GCC Free Trade Agreement. Both sides emphasized resolving outstanding obstacles to conclude the agreement and enhance trade and investment flows.
The UAE Federal Tax Authority has issued a comprehensive guide detailing the scope and registration rules for the Qualified Domestic Minimum Top-up Tax. The regime applies to multinational enterprise groups with annual consolidated revenues of at least 750 million euros to ensure an effective tax rate of 15 percent. Businesses operating exclusively within the UAE are explicitly excluded regardless of turnover.
UAE businesses preparing for 2027 operations face hidden costs related to technology adoption, recruitment, and working capital cycles. Analysis published by Gulf News highlights that corporate growth often creates cash flow gaps before incoming revenues materialize. Strict spending controls and visibility over commitments are cited as critical to maintaining corporate financial flexibility.
Policy updates, China–UAE business news and industry insights, delivered to your inbox.
Membership
Tell us about your experience and connection to UAE–China business. UECN assesses your application and offers the right membership category — fees are shared privately with your offer.
We send you a one-time sign-in link — your answers are saved as you go.
