Machinery, materials, industrial development and supply chains
A UAE delegation concluded its participation in the China International Industry Fair 2026 in Shanghai, focusing on automation and smart manufacturing. Led by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, Emirati officials met with Chinese robotics leaders to discuss pilot projects and supply-chain localization. The discussions aim to support the domestic Factory Forward UAE initiative.
The UAE concluded participation in the China International Industry Fair 2026, targeting robotics partnerships for local manufacturing. Concurrently, DEWA International signed four MoUs at WETEX 2026, including a partnership with China Energy International Group for energy and infrastructure projects.
The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) recorded a 17% growth in H1 2026 trade, reaching AED 246 billion. China maintained its position as DIEZ's largest trading partner, accounting for AED 69.8 billion or 28.4% of total trade.
Chinese flying-car developer Aridge plans to begin testing its modular Land Aircraft Carrier in the UAE in early 2027, with initial consumer deliveries targeted for late 2027 or early 2028. Speaking at the Dubai Business Forum in Shenzhen, CFO Michael Du stated the aircraft has completed Chinese regulatory test flights and is awaiting final type certification. Testing will take place within a regulatory sandbox established in Ras Al Khaimah.
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