UNCTAD

Policy & Legal Updates

Seventh Arab Competition Forum Convenes in Dubai on Digital Market Fairness

The seventh Arab Competition Forum opened in Dubai on October 28, 2026, focusing on competition policy and consumer protection in the digital economy. Co-organized by the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism and international bodies, the forum highlighted the modernization of UAE competition law. Discussions focused on managing the commercial impact of digital platforms and artificial intelligence.

China–UAE News

HKTDC Chairman Concludes GCC Mission to Expand China-Gulf Business Corridor

Hong Kong Trade Development Council Chairman Frederick Ma concluded a high-level GCC mission in Doha, meeting regional ministers and investment leadership. Speaking at the UNCTAD World Investment Forum, Ma promoted Hong Kong as an intermediary for Chinese outward investment across the Gulf. Discussions centered on expanding private equity, trade finance, and joint ventures in logistics, technology, and manufacturing.

China–UAE News

UNCTAD Report: UAE Attracts $48 Billion FDI as China Investments Surge

GCC foreign direct investment inflows rose 18 percent to $99 billion in 2025, with the UAE securing approximately $48 billion, according to UNCTAD. China and India were highlighted as key rapidly growing sources for industrial and technology investments in the region. Outward GCC investment also climbed 11 percent to $130 billion.

Industry News

World Investment Forum Opens in Doha with Focus on Capital and Infrastructure

The 9th World Investment Forum opened in Doha, bringing together over 5,000 delegates to address cross-border capital allocation. China's Vice Minister of Commerce joined Gulf trade ministers and investors to examine bilateral capital deployment and economic zones. UNCTAD highlighted that cross-border investment into essential infrastructure in developing nations dropped by over 25 percent in early 2026.