Top Weekly News: UAE & Qatar | Abu Dhabi's Masdar City Free Zone Sets Up Representative Office in Suzhou / Qatar Free Zones Authority Signs Strategic Cooperation Memorandum with WuXi Biologics
United Arab Emirates
Masdar City Free Zone in Abu Dhabi Sets Up Representative Office in Suzhou, China
The Masdar City Free Zone in Abu Dhabi announced the establishment of a representative office in China to deepen investment cooperation with the country. Located in the Suzhou Industrial Park, the representative office will create new opportunities for the UAE and China in technological innovation, industrial cooperation, and investment promotion, and will also drive the process of technology transfer. Masdar City is home to more than 2,000 enterprises from 90 countries, with a focus on high - potential fields such as artificial intelligence, life sciences, intelligent transportation, agricultural technology, and space technology. During a recent roadshow in China, Masdar City signed a cooperation agreement with the National Investment Promotion Agency of the Suzhou Industrial Park to jointly promote investment and innovation in the fields of technology, renewable energy, and sustainable development. UAE Economy Minister Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri previously stated that approximately 15,500 Chinese enterprises are operating in the UAE. According to data from the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, bilateral trade is expected to reach $200 billion by 2030. (AGBI)
Bank of China Dubai Branch Lists $500 Million Bonds on Nasdaq Dubai
On December 4th, the Dubai Branch of the Bank of China held a listing ceremony for its 3 - year $500 million SOFR floating - rate bonds on the Nasdaq Dubai Exchange. These bonds set a record for the smallest issuance spread among Chinese banks' US - dollar bonds of the same term. Hamad Ali, the CEO of Nasdaq Dubai and the Dubai Financial Market, said at the event that this listing further demonstrates the vitality and resilience of the Dubai market. As a long - term partner of Nasdaq Dubai, the Bank of China continues to leverage Dubai as a strategic hub connecting China with global capital markets. Dubai will also continue to provide an efficient, transparent, and internationally - compliant platform for international issuers. (Xinhua News Agency)
Quzhi Group Collaborates with Dubai Partner to Promote the Implementation of the HOLOX Project
Quzhi Group (00917.HK) announced a strategic cooperation with Shaikh Thani Saeed Thani Juma Al Maktoum, a member of the Dubai ruling family, to jointly promote the HOLOX project. This project focuses on creating a new - generation entertainment and lifestyle experience based on AI, which is highly consistent with the long - term goals of the UAE's "National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031". The group said that the AI - driven development momentum in the Middle East provides a favorable environment for the internationalization of the company's AIoT innovation capabilities. HOLOX integrates advanced multi - modal AI, context reasoning, and adaptive learning technologies with smart hardware to bring immersive, interactive, and AI - native gaming and entertainment experiences to users. The project will be launched first in Dubai and the Middle East, and then expanded to major Asian markets. (Gelonghui)
Chery iCAUR V27 with Golden REEV Technology Enters the Middle East Market
The SUV sub - brand iCAUR V27 under Chery Automobile, equipped with Golden REEV (Golden Range - Extended) technology, officially entered the Middle East market after its global debut in Dubai in August this year. This technology combines the advantages of electric and fuel vehicles to meet the local complex driving needs. The Golden REEV power system of the iCAUR V27 is centered around a 1.5T engine with a thermal efficiency of up to 45.79%. Coupled with an extended - range power generation system with an energy conversion efficiency of 97.3%, it can generate 3.71 kWh of electricity per liter of fuel, leading the industry. This technology maintains stable power output in the extremely high - temperature environment of the Middle East, achieving a balance between strong performance and low energy consumption. The iCAUR V27 has completed technical adaptation for the Middle East and is about to be launched, offering users a smooth and quiet urban driving experience and stable and reliable performance in desert off - roading. (Saudi Gazette)
Population Growth and AI Development Drive a Surge in Electricity Demand in the UAE
With the rapid population growth and the rise of AI - driven data centers, the UAE is facing unprecedented growth in electricity demand, and its energy landscape is being reshaped at an accelerated pace. The International Energy Agency predicts that by 2035, the annual growth rate of electricity consumption in the UAE could reach 4%, mainly driven by urbanization, industrial development, and the electrification of the transportation and refrigeration sectors. The changing population structure, with nearly 100,000 new residents every quarter, and the government's push to make the UAE a center for artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure have intensified the pressure on electricity demand. ABB invested $2 million to establish a training and digital solutions center in the Al Quoz Industrial Area in Dubai, covering an area of 2,500 square meters. It will train about 2,000 engineers and technicians from the Middle East each year to master AI - enabled asset management, predictive maintenance, and power grid automation skills. The Abu Dhabi solar project (with a capacity of nearly 5 gigawatts) has begun to reshape the energy supply model. ABB is also collaborating with NVIDIA and local startups through innovation competitions to develop predictive algorithms and Energy - as - a - Service (EaaS) models to drive the digital transformation of the energy sector. (Gulf Times)
The UAE Releases New VAT Rules to Take Effect on January 1, 2026
The UAE Ministry of Finance released new Value - Added Tax (VAT) rules, which will be officially implemented on January 1, 2026. The new rules introduce measures to strengthen governance, simplify procedures, and improve compliance, aiming to enhance tax administrative efficiency and align with international standards. The new rules stipulate that taxpayers do not need to issue self - invoices when applying the reverse - charge mechanism but need to retain transaction proof documents in accordance with the implementing regulations to reduce procedural burdens, provide audit evidence, and support efficient management. At the same time, the refund application period for excess refundable tax is adjusted to five years, after which it will expire, to prevent the accumulation of old taxes and enhance fiscal stability. In addition, the new rules authorize the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) to reject input tax deductions when it determines that a supply is part of a tax - evasion arrangement. Taxpayers must verify the legality and integrity of goods before deducting input tax. The Ministry of Finance emphasized that the revised VAT measures will support the UAE in building a fair, transparent, and efficient tax system and further enhance regulatory and administrative effectiveness. (Arabian Business)
Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry Signs Cooperation Agreement with Latvian Chamber of Commerce to Promote Bilateral Trade and Investment
The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry signed a cooperation agreement aiming to expand trade and investment flows between the two countries and strengthen business ties. The new framework will promote trade, improve investment convenience, and create development opportunities for enterprises in both countries and the international market. The agreement covers the exchange of business information, the organization of joint business delegations and forums, participation in trade exhibitions, and the sharing of technological and economic knowledge. Members of the Abu Dhabi Chamber can access the Latvian and broader EU markets through institutional channels. The two chambers will also promote capacity building and participation in international activities. In recent years, the economic ties between the UAE and Latvia have been continuously strengthened, and the bilateral non - oil trade volume is expected to reach $103 million in 2024, with a compound annual growth rate of 7.5% over the past five years. Abu Dhabi companies active in Latvia include Eagle Hills (a $3.3 billion seaside reconstruction project) and M42 (cooperating with the Latvian Ministry of Health on digital health). In addition, Latvian enterprises are also expanding their business in Abu Dhabi, covering areas such as professional technical services, wholesale trade, real estate, and financial services. (ARAB News)
Qatar
Qatar Free Zones Authority Signs Strategic Cooperation Memorandum with WuXi Biologics
The Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) and WuXi Biologics, a global leading CRDMO enterprise, signed a strategic cooperation memorandum aiming to deepen cooperation in the fields of biopharmaceutical manufacturing, R & D, and innovation. The signing ceremony was witnessed by HE Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al - Thani, the Minister of Commerce and Industry of Qatar and the Chairman of QFZ. The agreement was jointly signed by HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal Al - Thani, the CEO of QFZ, and Dr. Chris Chen, the CEO of WuXi Biologics. QFZ said that this cooperation will lay the foundation for WuXi Biologics to establish its first integrated CRDMO center in the Middle East, which will be located in the Qatar Free Zone. The two parties will also jointly promote R & D and innovation programs around biopharmaceutical manufacturing and advanced process technologies, and strengthen cooperation with Qatari medical, scientific research, and academic institutions to drive the development of biopharmaceutical technology. The memorandum also includes the implementation of structured training programs to cultivate local biotechnology talents and the establishment of a long - term cooperation mechanism to enhance the resilience of Qatar's biopharmaceutical industry and support WuXi Biologics' regional expansion. (The Peninsula)
Huawei and Meeza Sign Two Strategic Cooperation Memorandums at MWC25 in Doha
During MWC25 in Doha, Meeza and Huawei signed two strategic memorandums of understanding (MoU) to support Qatar's key deployments in the fields of digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence (AI), and talent cultivation. The two MoUs will deepen cooperation between the two parties in private digital infrastructure and AI services and launch a national - level training program to cultivate local professionals in the fields of digitalization and emerging technologies. By empowering private - sector innovation and promoting the implementation of advanced technologies, Huawei and Meeza are committed to strengthening Qatar's digital foundation, promoting the growth of local talents, and enhancing national competitiveness. The two parties will jointly explore advanced technologies, AI - driven solutions, and the construction of local platforms to create a robust and flexible digital ecosystem to meet changing technological needs and drive innovation across multiple industries. Through this agreement, Huawei and Meeza once again emphasized the important role of the private sector in supporting Qatar's national vision, including enhancing advanced technology capabilities, accelerating digital infrastructure construction, and cultivating future talents. (Gulf Times)
WeChat Pay Launches in Qatar, with QNB as the First Bank to Connect
QNB (Qatar National Bank) announced that it has become the first bank in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) to support WeChat Pay, marking the local access of the Chinese mobile payment system in Qatar. This project is promoted by QNB in cooperation with Darwish Holding and NETSTARS. The first - batch of supported online retail brands include Fifty One East, Fnac, iSpace, and Toysaloona. The launch of WeChat Pay will improve the cross - border consumption experience of Chinese customers and enhance the customer conversion ability of the e - commerce, tourism, and service industries. Darwish Holding said that the introduction of WeChat Pay conforms to the global retail trend and will enhance friendliness towards Chinese consumers; NETSTARS said that this move will help Qatar promote the construction of a cashless society and strengthen WeChat's layout in the Middle East payment ecosystem. (Gulf Times)
Ahlibank in Qatar Welcomes a Delegation from ICBC to Celebrate the Listing of a Milestone Corporate Bond on the Qatar Stock Exchange
Ahlibank recently received a senior delegation from the Doha (QFC) Branch of the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), led by General Manager Wang Weichao, who visited and met with Hassan Ahmed AlEfrangi, the CEO of Ahlibank. ICBC's visit aimed to congratulate Ahlibank on the successful issuance and listing of its first corporate bond denominated in Qatari riyals on the Qatar Stock Exchange. During the talks, the two parties discussed potential directions for strengthening cooperation in the fields of capital markets, trade finance, and treasury services, and reaffirmed their common vision of promoting cooperation between Qatari and Chinese financial institutions. This visit reflects Ahlibank's strategic focus on building strong partnerships with major global financial institutions and driving innovation through collaboration. As Ahlibank continues to expand its domestic and international presence, it will continue to contribute to the development of Qatar's financial industry, in line with the country's Vision 2030. (Gulf Times)
Vodafone Qatar Signs a Cooperation Memorandum with Hytera
Vodafone Qatar and Hytera International Technology signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to further consolidate their long - term cooperation and promote the development of mission - critical communication services. The memorandum was officially signed by Mohammed Mohsin Alyafei, the director of the enterprise business department of Vodafone Qatar, and Tony Wang, the director of business development at Hytera, during MWC Doha 2025. The cooperation between the two parties will target key industries such as public safety, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and construction, providing highly reliable and secure communication services. Relying on Vodafone Qatar's network capabilities and Hytera's global experience in mission - critical communication technologies, the two parties will expand the market, improve the product portfolio, and drive sustainable business growth. This cooperation sets a new standard for mission - critical communication, enables AI - driven operations, and enhances Vodafone Qatar's readiness for next - generation networks, providing ultra - reliable connectivity for high - sensitivity application scenarios such as telemedicine and autonomous emergency response. (Gulf Times)
Qatar's Port Freight and Container Throughput Maintained High - Level Growth in November
In November 2025, the freight and container volume handled by Qatar's Mesaieed Port, Doha Port, and Ras Laffan Port increased significantly year - on - year, indicating active maritime trade. The three ports handled a total of 159,480 tons of general and bulk cargo in that month, a year - on - year surge of 60.51% but a month - on - month decrease of 26.33%. The container throughput reached 117,941 twenty - foot equivalent units (TEU), a year - on - year increase of 8.22% and a slight month - on - month decrease of 0.89%. During the same period, the number of ships arriving at the ports was 272, a year - on - year increase of 14.29% and a month - on - month increase of 11.02%. In the first 11 months of 2025, the three ports handled a total of 109,307 roll - on/roll - off vehicles, with significant growth in the sales of heavy equipment, motorcycles, and private vehicles. (Gulf Times)
Qatar's General Tax Authority Launches a Five - Year Strategy to Promote a Modern Tax System
The General Tax Authority (GTA) of Qatar launched a five - year strategic plan aiming to establish a prudent and forward - looking modern tax system to support the country's sustainable development goals. The new strategy is based on the core pillars of simplifying procedures, expanding digital services, and providing positive support, enhancing the accessibility, transparency, and compliance of tax services. The strategy emphasizes the development of human capital, improving employee capabilities through training and incentive mechanisms, and enhancing the transparency of the system and public trust through data protection and performance reporting. In addition, the GTA will reduce the burden on enterprises, promote compliance, and support economic diversification through regular consultations and advisory committees. (The Peninsula)
Doha Smart City Expo Highlights Qatar's Leading Position in Smart and Sustainable Urban Development
The latest Doha Smart City Expo showcased Qatar's leading position in smart and sustainable urban construction. Lusail City is one of the most advanced smart cities in the Middle East, integrating real - time data systems, intelligent transportation, and connected urban services. Msheireb Downtown Doha in the center of Doha is Qatar's first fully - built smart and sustainable urban area, combining digital innovation, energy efficiency, and people - centered design. The expo was jointly organized by the Barcelona Convention Bureau and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), focusing on the application of artificial intelligence in transportation, urban management, and design. This year's event was presented at MWC25 in Doha, attracting nearly 300 thought leaders and more than 250 exhibitors and sponsors, demonstrating Qatar's achievements in digital transformation and its future development path. (Gulf Times)
Qatar's Ministry of Communications and Information Technology Signs Agreements with PwC and OpenAI
The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) of Qatar signed cooperation agreements with Pw