Investopia 2025: Over 15,000 Chinese Companies Operating In UAE Markets, Says Economy Minister

UAE's economy minister and chairman of Investopia 2025, Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, has revealed that nearly 15,500 Chinese companies are operating in the UAE's markets, highlighting the strong economic and trade relations between the two nations.

Al Marri made these remarks during Investopia 2025's hosting of a new edition of the China-Arab Entrepreneurs Summit in Abu Dhabi, held under the theme "Seizing New Opportunities." The event was attended by Jean-Pierre Raffarin, Co-Chairman of the Sino-International Entrepreneurs Federation (SIEF) and former French Prime Minister; and Zhao Liang, Charge d'affaires of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China.

The summit featured several meetings with the participation of 18 speakers, and saw the attendance of more than 400 leaders, decision-makers and entrepreneurs from the Arab world and China, WAM reported.

Al Marri emphasized that the summit marks a new phase in Arab-China economic relations, which have been steadily growing. He stated that the UAE remains committed to strengthening this strategic partnership and fostering further economic progress.

China is the UAE's largest trading partner, while the UAE is China's top trade partner in the Middle East and North Africa region.

Al Marri expressed confidence that shared economic goals and strategies will strengthen future investment relations. He highlighted that the UAE has attracted significant Chinese investments, with hundreds of companies investing over $6 billion in sectors like retail, finance, real estate, and construction.

The UAE's business-friendly environment, including long-term residency, full foreign ownership, and streamlined licensing, has positioned it as a top investment destination under the "We the UAE 2031" vision.

Additionally, Al Marri emphasized the UAE's strong support for China's Belt and Road Initiative, which has significantly boosted trade, investment flows, and economic partnerships, benefiting both the Arab and Chinese markets.

Raffarin highlighted the strong economic growth potential in the Middle East over the next decade. He emphasized that the UAE serves as an ideal hub for Chinese companies, providing connections to business leaders, policymakers, and communities across the region and globally.

William Wang, Chief Representative for the Middle East & Africa at SIEF, noted that in the past 10 years, the organization has helped over 800 Chinese business and policy leaders understand the UAE's business environment.

This support has opened doors for exploring investment and collaboration opportunities, enabling Chinese enterprises to expand into new markets. Wang further noted that the UAE's openness and strategic location have played a pivotal role in facilitating their global growth.

During the summit, the Sino-International Entrepreneurs Federation (SIEF) announced six new strategic partnerships with major institutions. The new partners include Investopia, the Ministerial Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation Countries, Abu Dhabi Global Market Academy, Abu Dhabi School of Management, Hub 71, Saal, and WeCarbon.