Dubai’s economic relationship with China strengthened significantly in 2025, with bilateral non-oil trade reaching approximately $99 billion (AED 363.5 billion) and Chinese foreign direct investment (FDI) capital nearly tripling year-on-year, according to Dubai Chambers.
Non-oil trade between the two markets increased by almost 23% compared with 2024, reinforcing China’s position as Dubai’s largest trading partner. Chinese FDI capital into the emirate climbed from approximately $326.8 million (AED 1.2 billion) in 2024 to more than $925.8 million (AED 3.4 billion) in 2025.
The figures were presented at the Dubai Business Forum – China in Shenzhen on October 14, highlighting the expanding commercial relationship between the two markets and Dubai’s continued efforts to attract international investors.
The long-term trend is equally significant. Bilateral non-oil trade has more than doubled since 2016, when it stood at $45.3 billion (AED 166.4 billion), representing growth of 118.4% over the period.
China Imports Drive Dubai’s Bilateral Trade Growth
Imports from China accounted for the overwhelming majority of Dubai’s non-oil trade with the country in 2025, according to Dubai Customs figures included in the China Economic Outlook report prepared for the forum.
Dubai imported approximately $95 billion worth of Chinese goods in 2025, up from $77.5 billion in 2024 and $36.2 billion in 2020
