Software, telecommunications and digital infrastructure
Abu Dhabi Global Market confirmed a 54 percent growth in assets managed by free zone firms over the past 12 months. Entity investments in artificial intelligence surpassed $100 billion, driven primarily by tech investment firm MGX. Abu Dhabi also rose to 13th globally in the Global Financial Centers Index published by Z/Yen and China's CDI.
Abu Dhabi's Masdar City Free Zone has established its first China representative office in the Suzhou Industrial Park. Operated by Suzhou Yingdi Consulting, the facility will support Chinese enterprises expanding into Abu Dhabi. The free zone also signed an agreement with Beijing's Zhongguancun innovation cluster.
Automotive brand FREELANDER, developed jointly by Jaguar Land Rover and China's Chery, held its global brand launch in Abu Dhabi on September 29, 2026. The event featured the debut of the left-hand drive FREELANDER 8 model, attended by senior UAE government and corporate officials. JLR leads vehicle design while Chery supplies engineering, intelligent technology, and supply chain backing.
UAE immigration authorities have introduced updated regulations for entry permits and residency visas across Dubai and the emirates. The revised framework establishes specialized visit visas for artificial intelligence specialists, entertainment talent, event professionals, and cruise ship crew. Expatriate residents sponsoring visiting relatives must also meet updated monthly salary requirements ranging between AED 4,000 and AED 15,000.
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