Banking, fintech, funds, capital markets and cross-border investment
The UAE Federal Tax Authority has introduced an AI-powered digital tax refund system across international airports in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah in partnership with Planet. The digital service cuts refund payout turnaround times from nine business days to just one.
Chinese and UAE officials met in Beijing to align China's 15th Five-Year Plan with the 'We the UAE 2031' strategy. Discussions focused on scaling two-way investments following bilateral non-oil trade exceeding $110 billion in 2025. Priority areas for cooperation include smart manufacturing, logistics corridors, renewable energy, and artificial intelligence.
Robinhood Markets has secured regulatory authorization from the Dubai Financial Services Authority to offer retail trading and custody services from the Dubai International Financial Centre. The company plans to launch its regional product suite in 2027, establishing its Middle East and North Africa headquarters in Dubai. The regulatory permission covers ten DFSA-permitted asset classes, including equities, cryptocurrencies, exchange-traded funds, and investment tokens.
Hermes International reported flat constant-currency revenue in its region that includes China for the third quarter, trailing analyst expectations of 1.6% growth. The performance was weighed down by Chinese consumer spending cutbacks and regional conflict disrupting shopping destinations such as Dubai. Following the announcement, Hermes shares fell up to 9% in Paris, extending year-to-date declines to 41%.
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.
