The fifth International Dubai Business Forum is set to take place on May 14, 2026, in Shenzhen, a rapidly growing city in southern China renowned for its focus on innovation. This event, announced by Dubai Chambers, aims to broaden Dubai’s international connections while solidifying its position as a prime destination for foreign investments.

Returning to China for Growth

This upcoming forum marks the second occasion that it will be hosted in China, following a successful event in Beijing in 2024. Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, the president and CEO of Dubai Chambers, emphasized the need for developing solid pathways for growth in the digital economy. “We are here to help Chinese companies make full use of Dubai’s strategic platform and expand globally,” he stated. The forum seeks to create a collaborative environment where both regions can explore business opportunities that contribute to mutual economic growth.

Focus on the Digital Economy

Lootah underscored the significance of expanding the digital economy to achieve the D33 Dubai Economic Agenda. This ambitious plan aims for the digital sector to comprise 20 percent of Dubai’s total economy by the year 2033, with an eye toward a projected valuation of 200 billion yuan, approximately $28.6 billion. He pointed out that this strategy provides Chinese digital companies, especially startups, the unique opportunity to establish themselves in Dubai and flourish. “There is a growing demand for service-oriented companies in AI, as we aim not only to develop AI but also to apply it across various industries, including healthcare,” he remarked.

Attracting AI Service Providers

Dubai Chambers plans to bring more AI service providers to the emirate, which would enhance economic growth and improve the quality of life for its residents. Lootah also stressed that Dubai serves as a vital regional hub, granting businesses access to markets across the Middle East, Africa, and beyond. Companies operating from Dubai can effectively reach over 70 countries with their products and services, enhancing their global footprint.

Strategic Trade Agreements and Opportunities

Lootah highlighted that Dubai has established bilateral trade agreements with 27 countries. This strategic arrangement implies that companies investing in the UAE to set up production facilities can export their goods tax-free to these countries, offering an excellent opportunity for manufacturers. Official statistics indicate that the UAE is China’s largest trading partner within the Arab region, with approximately 60 percent of Chinese goods re-exported through UAE ports to more than 400 cities in the Middle East and North Africa. This positions the UAE as a crucial trading hub for China.

In 2024, a significant 80.8 percent of electric vehicles imported into Dubai were from China, showcasing the strong trade relationship between the two countries. Meanwhile, the number of active Chinese companies registered with Dubai Chambers has seen remarkable growth, increasing from 2,056 in 2015 to 6,355 by the end of November 2025—a staggering 209 percent rise. This highlights the growing interest and investment from Chinese enterprises in the Dubai market.