Dubai Focuses on Strengthening Ties with China: Upcoming Business Forum in Shenzhen
As we step into 2026, Dubai is once again turning its attention to China. On January 8th, the Dubai Chambers announced that the Dubai Business Forum China will take place in Shenzhen, a recognized global center for technology and innovation. This move signifies the peak of economic and trade cooperation between China and Dubai, marking a transition from basic trade to deeper collaborations in technology and industry.
A Surge in Business Activity
The economic relationship is flourishing, with over 6,190 active Chinese member enterprises registered with the Dubai Chambers by the end of Q3 2025. Remarkably, more than 1,400 new registrations were added just in 2025, reflecting an annual compound growth rate of 11.6%. This upward trend speaks volumes about the increasing interest of Chinese businesses in Dubai as a strategic platform for entering global markets.
The upcoming 5th International Dubai Business Forum, scheduled for May 14, 2026, embraces the theme “Working Together for Long-term Success and Building a New Economic Growth.” The forum operates on an invitation-only basis, targeting decision-makers within the Chinese business landscape. Attendees will benefit from on-site networking opportunities, fostering potential business collaborations.
Dubai’s Strategic Appeal to Chinese Innovators
More and more Chinese tech firms and innovative businesses are establishing their headquarters in Dubai, seeing it as an ideal base for both testing and commercializing their products in the Middle East. The emirate offers 100% foreign ownership, minimal corporate taxes, and unparalleled infrastructure—including world-class ports and airports—creating an ecosystem conducive to success.
His Excellency Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of the Dubai Chambers, emphasizes that the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) is redefining the city’s economic framework. This new agenda not only enhances local business opportunities but also positions Dubai as a prime destination for Chinese companies in sectors like trade, logistics, sustainable solutions, digital economy, and advanced manufacturing.
Focused Collaboration in Emerging Industries
Lootah pointed out a significant shift in Dubai’s cooperation strategy with China; the focus is moving from broad frameworks to specialized partnerships in high-growth, tech-driven sectors. Key areas of collaboration identified include:
Artificial Intelligence
Dubai seamlessly integrates AI into key industries such as healthcare and logistics. In 2025, the logistics sector alone contributed 13.1% to the emirate’s GDP. Dubai aims to leverage AI solutions for process optimization and has identified this technology as a critical investment area.
Smart City Development
Collaborations with international tech companies, including those from China, are underway to develop smart city solutions. This initiative aims to position Dubai as a gateway for tech firms targeting markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.
Fintech Innovations
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) stands as a global financial hub, contributing 12.5% to Dubai’s GDP in the first half of 2025. There is a strong synergy between Dubai and Chinese enterprises in areas like insurtech, corporate payment solutions, and blockchain technology.
Advanced Manufacturing
Dubai is ramping up high-value manufacturing efforts, leveraging its stellar infrastructure to attract Chinese companies. With numerous opportunities in e-commerce, IoT, and cloud technologies, the potential for collaboration is vast.
Secure Your Spot at the Dubai Business Forum
The Shenzhen forum marks a pivotal step in Dubai’s renewed investment strategy towards China. Following the successful inaugural forum held in Beijing in 2024, which gathered over 800 business leaders and investors, the anticipation builds around this upcoming event in Shenzhen—a city renowned for its industrial innovations in AI, advanced manufacturing, and e-commerce logistics.
Lootah reinforces the significance of this event, stating, “We are returning to China to hold the Dubai Business Forum in Shenzhen, the innovation capital, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to this vital economic partnership.”
For Chinese enterprises engaged in technology-driven sectors, this forum provides an invaluable opportunity to dive into the Dubai market. Attendees will be able to meet government officials and leading businesses, facilitating fruitful discussions on potential collaborations.
During the event, Dubai’s representatives will curate match-making sessions based on the business focus of participating Chinese companies, allowing for targeted negotiations on market opportunities.
Timing is Everything: Early Applications Encouraged
Companies that apply early will likely gain exclusive access to these vital networking opportunities. Businesses interested in attending the Dubai Business Forum in Shenzhen are encouraged to submit their application through the registration link provided by the Dubai Chambers, ensuring a thorough review for participation confirmation.
About Dubai Chambers
Dubai Chambers consists of three distinct entities: the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, the Dubai International Chamber, and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy. Together, they play a vital role in fostering economic development and growth, supporting the local business ecosystem while nurturing international partnerships.
For enterprises seeking to expand globally, now is the time to explore the myriad benefits of Dubai’s unique business climate and strategic alignment with Chinese innovation.
If your business aims to take part in shaping the future of technology and economic collaboration in the Middle East, consider attending this essential forum and taking the first step towards realizing your global aspirations.
