Ports, shipping, aviation cargo, warehousing and trade
China's outbound direct investment into the UAE reached $2.6 billion, more than tripling from the prior reporting year. Cumulative Chinese FDI stock in the Emirates rose to $12.47 billion, alongside bilateral non-oil trade surpassing $100 billion. The influx comes as Chinese enterprises, including China Securities, JINGDONG Property, and Momenta, expand operations in the UAE.
US President Donald Trump has adopted a low-key approach to negotiations with Iran, choosing to rely on economic pressure rather than new military strikes. The strategic shift leaves oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz in limbo despite ongoing shuttle tanker traffic. Energy infrastructure in the region faces persistent threats, including a missile attack on a UAE vessel and a fire at Saudi Arabia's Jazan refinery.
China is managing complex diplomatic and commercial balancing acts to protect vital Middle East oil routes as disruptions affect the Persian Gulf and Red Sea. While maintaining public neutrality, Beijing has engaged in private efforts to keep crude flowing from Gulf partners, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia. China remains one of the UAE's largest crude destinations, second only to Japan.
The Dubai Supreme Council of Energy is intensifying regulatory oversight of petroleum products trading across storage, transport, and distribution activities. The measures enforce Executive Council Resolution No. 85 of 2025 to curb unauthorized trading and raise safety compliance. Authorities reported that joint field inspection teams have carried out 449 campaigns in the LPG sector since July 2022.
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