Strengthening Ties: The Dubai–Beijing Business Seminar
Dubai Chambers has taken a significant step towards enhancing economic collaboration by successfully organizing the Dubai–Beijing Business Seminar. This event aims to bolster trade and investment partnerships, open new economic channels, and foster bilateral cooperation between Dubai and Beijing across various sectors.
A Gathering of Influential Leaders
Held at Dubai Chambers’ headquarters in collaboration with the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade – Beijing, the seminar drew attendance from notable figures, including a Chinese delegation led by Vice Mayor Sima Hong. Alongside them were local dignitaries, such as Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, and Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy and Tourism. The event was a melting pot of over 130 business leaders, government officials, and private sector representatives, marking a crucial networking opportunity.
Commitment to Economic Growth
During the seminar, Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah emphasized Dubai’s commitment to strengthening economic ties with Beijing. He underscored the importance of collaborative efforts across various sectors, stating, “We remain committed to deepening economic and investment ties between Dubai and Beijing across a broad range of sectors.” Lootah reiterated Dubai’s role as a pivotal gateway for regional and global business expansion, reinforcing that enhancing partnerships remains a top priority.
Insight into Dubai’s Economic Landscape
Salem Al Shamsi, Vice President of International Relations at Dubai Chambers, provided a comprehensive presentation detailing Dubai’s vibrant economic landscape. His insights highlighted competitive advantages for businesses and investors, along with joint business opportunities between Dubai and China. He also aimed to identify promising sectors for trade and investment cooperation, fostering an environment ripe for growth.
Flourishing Trade Relations
The numbers speak volumes about the flourishing trade relationship between Dubai and China. In 2024, non-oil bilateral trade surged to approximately AED 296.3 billion, reflecting an impressive annual growth rate of 19%. Furthermore, by mid-year, over 6,000 Chinese enterprises were actively registered with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, underscoring the growing allure of Dubai as a premier global business destination.
Expanding Economic Cooperation
The depth of the relationship between Dubai and China was further illustrated by Dubai Chambers’ initiative to host the inaugural international edition of the Dubai Business Forum in Beijing in August 2024. Titled “China, Dubai and Beyond: Igniting Global Trade and Investment,” this forum showcased Dubai’s competitive advantages, strategic initiatives, and investment opportunities available to Chinese and global business communities.
Upcoming Events to Foster Ties
In an exciting development, Dubai Chambers announced plans to organize the Dubai Business Forum – China in Beijing, scheduled for 21st to 22nd August this year. This upcoming forum will be the first in a series set to take place in major financial and business hubs worldwide, aimed at promoting the opportunities generated by the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).
Supporting Foreign Investments
This initiative is part of an ongoing strategy by Dubai Chambers to encourage foreign direct investment and solidify Dubai’s status as a leading global business hub. By hosting the Dubai Business Forum – China, the chambers aim to highlight the diverse investment opportunities in the emirate. It is geared towards attracting multinational companies, innovative startups from China, and supporting local partnerships that will facilitate impactful collaborations.
Focused on Key Sectors
The event will feature various sessions and panel discussions centering on critical sectors aligned with Dubai’s economic agenda, including the digital economy, healthcare, finance, retail, tourism, travel, and real estate. This multidimensional approach ensures that attendees gain valuable insights into the opportunities that align with current market demands.
Dubai’s Global Reputation
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman of Dubai International Chamber, highlighted Dubai’s growing reputation as a global business hub. He remarked on the emirate’s attractiveness to international investors looking for fertile ground for growth. The success of events like the Dubai Business Forum – China further solidifies the emirate’s position as a nexus of opportunity and partnership, particularly with China, given its significant role in the global economy and strong established ties.
By fostering these critical discussions and partnerships, the Dubai–Beijing Business Seminar marks a pivotal moment in Dubai’s economic journey. Its impact will resonate across diverse sectors, paving the way for future collaborations and mutual growth between these two dynamic markets.
