Page 150 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - SEPTEMBER 2024 (Part 2)
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Bin Touq elaborated on the UAE's new economic model supporting the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision. He
discussed advancements in legislation and policies that have increased foreign direct investments
in the UAE. These measures have strengthened national competitiveness regionally and globally.
Bin Touq invited Chinese companies to leverage opportunities in various sectors like tourism,
aviation, FinTech, e-commerce, AI, healthcare, smart transportation, and sustainable
manufacturing.
He highlighted tourism as a crucial pillar of economic cooperation between the two countries. The
number of Chinese visitors to the UAE reached around 1.2 million in 2023, a significant increase
from 382,206 tourists in 2022. There are currently 44 flights operated by UAE’s national carriers
connecting both countries weekly.
In his opening address, Abdul Aziz Abdulla Al Ghurair, Chairman of Dubai Chambers, emphasised
China’s status as the UAE’s top trading partner. He mentioned that Dubai International Chamber
has three overseas offices in China – Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong – to enhance investment
opportunities and facilitate trade exchanges.
Commitment to Supporting Chinese Businesses
Al Ghurair stated, "Our commitment at Dubai Chambers to supporting the Chinese business
community is unwavering." He noted that last month’s Dubai Business Forum in Beijing attracted
800 investors and entrepreneurs from both nations. This forum underscores China as a crucial
strategic partner for future initiatives.
Al Ghurair concluded his address by noting that there were 5,480 active Chinese member
companies registered with Dubai Chamber of Commerce by August's end. Out of these, 1,004 new
Chinese companies joined during this year's first eight months.
Panel Discussions on Investment Opportunities
The Forum featured four panel discussions with 20 speakers including officials and business
leaders from both countries. Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai
Chambers delivered the welcome address. Sessions focused on sovereign wealth funds' role in
joint investments and projects and strengthening partnership frameworks within energy sectors.
The discussions also evaluated opportunities to enhance cross-investment and trade while
showcasing successful Dubai-based companies expanding operations in China. Additionally, they
highlighted Chinese firms capitalising on business growth opportunities available in Dubai.
This event builds on momentum from August's Dubai Business Forum – China organised by Dubai
Chambers in Beijing. The inaugural international edition attracted 800 prominent Chinese business
leaders, investors, officials alongside a high-level delegation from Dubai featuring representatives
from key government entities and private sectors exploring diverse opportunities arising for Chinese
businesses due to Dubai D33 agenda.
https://www.onearabia.me/local/uae-china-business-forum-boosts-bilateral-trade-investment-
011-66823.html