Understand the policies, laws and regulations shaping business across China and the UAE.
Business registration · Investment · Taxation · Customs · Trade · Financial regulation · Employment · Visas · Free-zone policies. Every update identifies the issuing authority, jurisdiction, publication date, effective date and official source.
Chinese direct investment in the UAE surpassed $12 billion in 2025 as tech firms like Alibaba Cloud expanded data center and AI services. Meanwhile, U.S. policies conditioning access to advanced AI chips on the removal of Chinese core network hardware require Gulf states to navigate conflicting technological relationships. In the UAE, active Chinese technology projects grew to 81 under the Digital Silk Road framework.
Hundreds of private school and university educators in Dubai have qualified for 10-year residency under a specialized Golden Visa initiative. Launched under directives from Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, the programme has received more than 835 applications since its rollout in October 2024. The scheme forms part of Dubai's Education 33 strategy to attract and retain educational talent.
The UAE government has confirmed family sponsorship terms under its 10-year Golden Visa program, permitting holders to sponsor spouses, parents, and children of any age. Sponsored dependents receive 10-year residency matching the primary holder and may stay until permit expiry even if the primary sponsor passes away.
UAE Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Authority
The UAE Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Authority has published detailed qualifying criteria for foreign nationals seeking 10-year Golden Visas under exceptional talent categories. Eligible fields include culture and arts, scientific research, industry, sports, and specialised professional positions requiring a minimum monthly salary of AED 30,000.
Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Authority (ICP)
United Arab Emirates
Final rule
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