Software, telecommunications and digital infrastructure
Ras Al Khaimah Ruler Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi visited the Guangzhou factory of Chinese manufacturer Aridge, unveiling the first X3-F aircraft designated for UAE testing. Under an agreement with the Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority, the company aims to conduct trials in the emirate as early as 2027. Commercial deliveries could follow later that year, subject to regulatory approvals.
Bilateral trade between China and the UAE reached $108 billion in 2025, alongside $2.6 billion in direct investment. Over 6,650 active Chinese companies are registered with Dubai Chambers as firms expand in food delivery, automated logistics, and autonomous driving.
Bilateral trade between China and the UAE reached $108 billion in 2025, establishing the UAE as China's largest Middle East export market. More than 6,650 active Chinese companies were registered with Dubai Chambers by late September 2026. Major firms, including Meituan, J&T Express, and Baidu, have recently expanded their operations and infrastructure in Dubai.
China's total trade with 23 Middle East and North Africa countries fell 12% to $329.3 billion during the first nine months of 2026, driven by a 38.6% drop in crude oil imports. Despite overall declines, the UAE remained China's top global destination for electrified vehicles at $3.9 billion and imported nearly half of China's $11.7 billion in phone shipments to the region.
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