Senior executives from leading Chinese technology, investment, and logistics firms are set to convene in Shenzhen on October 14 for the Dubai Business Forum – China, an event aimed at exploring ways Dubai can support the international expansion of their businesses. Organized by Dubai Chambers under the theme "Momentum at Scale: Accelerating Shared Success," the forum will bring together companies already operating in Dubai to discuss opportunities for deepening trade and investment ties between the emirate and China.
The event will feature top representatives from a broad range of sectors, including cloud computing, digital entertainment, delivery services, finance, and transport. Notable participants include executives from BYD, Baidu, Tencent Cloud, Huawei Cloud, iMile Delivery, YTO International, Yalla Group, ARIDGE (formerly XPENG AEROT), CICC, and China Merchants Capital.
Central to the forum’s agenda is the challenge faced by Chinese businesses expanding into international markets such as the Middle East: adapting products, establishing local operations, and forging strategic partnerships that enable sustained growth. Dubai is being highlighted as a strategic hub from which companies can develop these critical capabilities.
Artificial intelligence (AI) will be a key focus of discussions. Alan Qi, President of Huawei Cloud Middle East and Central Asia Region, is slated to participate in a panel addressing the expanding AI economy, the cloud infrastructure required for large-scale AI deployment, and Dubai’s role in fostering innovation and attracting talent. Qi underscored Huawei Cloud’s role in bridging Chinese and UAE ecosystems, helping industries across the UAE upgrade through AI, and supporting joint market expansion efforts.
Tencent Cloud’s General Manager for the Middle East and North Africa, Rachel Xie, described Dubai as a crucial hub for Tencent’s cloud computing operations. She expressed an interest in sharing the company’s experiences in Dubai and collaborating with other participants on emerging opportunities in the region.
Beyond AI, the forum’s sessions will address cross-border capital flows, product development tailored to local markets, logistics networks, and regulatory frameworks. Jason Hau, Chief Strategy Officer at Yalla Group, will speak on leveraging market data to understand local users and design relevant digital entertainment services, highlighting Dubai’s ability to unite diverse markets, cultures, and ideas to foster global business opportunities.
The Dubai Business Forum – China aims to facilitate dialogue and collaboration that will support the growth of Chinese enterprises in Dubai and beyond, reinforcing the emirate’s position as a key international business gateway.