The Dubai International Free Zone Authority, one of the largest free zones in the United Arab Emirates, opened its first office in China on Oct 13 in Shanghai's Jing'an district.

The new office aims to assist Chinese enterprises seeking to expand into the Middle East and support companies registered in the IFZA exploring opportunities in China, according to Jochen Knecht, the CEO of the IFZA.

Explaining the choice of Shanghai as the location, Knecht highlighted the city's economic strength and cultural vibrancy.

As a hub for multinational corporations and one of China's most important economic centers, Shanghai shares Dubai's international and multicultural character, providing an open and inclusive environment for both businesses and residents, he said.

As a business registration and service platform, IFZA has helped more than 60,000 companies expand internationally.

According to the China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the UAE is China's largest export market and second-largest trading partner in the Middle East.

In 2024, bilateral trade between China and the UAE exceeded $100 billion for the first time, including $65.59 billion in Chinese exports and $36.25 billion in imports.

A PwC report shows that the UAE remains the top destination for Chinese enterprises investing in the Middle East, with many using the country as a springboard to expand across the region.

More than 15,500 Chinese companies are now operating in the UAE, with rapid growth seen not only in enterprise numbers but also in trade and investment, Knecht said.

He noted that the number of Chinese firms using IFZA's services increased by 30 percent in 2024 compared with the previous year.

Chinese customs data also show that non-oil trade between China and the UAE rose 18 percent year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025.

Source: Jiefang Daily