Abu Dhabi Forum Showcases US$4.2 Trillion In Chinese Assets To Strengthen Economic Ties

The Abu Dhabi School of Management (ADSM), linked with the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, recently hosted a significant forum, which united top business figures from the UAE with a Chinese delegation managing assets exceeding US$4.2 trillion (CNY 30 trillion). The gathering underscores the growing economic and knowledge ties between Abu Dhabi and Beijing.

The forum aimed to enhance academic and economic dialogue between Abu Dhabi and global innovation centres. It also showcased Abu Dhabi's vibrant investment environment to 45 chairpersons from diverse strategic sectors within China's economy.

Dr Yang Bing, Vice President of Tsinghua University, led the Chinese delegation. It included DBA candidates who are senior executives and founders in sectors like manufacturing, energy, and finance. The delegation's asset management highlights their substantial economic influence globally and in China.

Joseph Chamoun from the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) discussed the "Falcon Economy," focusing on ADIO's role in empowering investors. Dr Monica Malik from Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank highlighted the UAE's strong economic fundamentals for international investment. Hajar Al Ansari from Hub71 reviewed support for entrepreneurs, while Magnus Olsson shared his experience building Careem in the Middle East.

A panel discussion titled "Strengthening Abu Dhabi–China Relations: The Strategic Framework for International Business in Abu Dhabi" followed. Participants included Dr Jean Fares, Rebecca Ding, Dr Ahmed Al Barkani, and Dr Khuloud Al Marzouqi. They explored ways to boost UAE-China commercial cooperation, noting increasing economic relations.

Dr Mark Poulin, Acting President of ADSM, spoke about innovation and cross-cultural collaboration as key to UAE's success. He reiterated ADSM's commitment to supporting international academic cooperation, aiming to provide students with global business insights.

Khalid Al Fahim, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Family Business Council and Board Member of the Abu Dhabi Chamber, welcomed the Chinese delegation during the opening of the forum. He highlighted the importance of sharing international knowledge and expertise, and praised the resilience of the UAE economy and its openness to global partnerships, which have helped to cement the country’s reputation as a leading centre for business and investment.

The event attracted participation from government and private sector partners like Abu Dhabi Global Market. They engaged with DBA candidates and entrepreneurs, highlighting academic institutions' role in fostering cross-border business community connections.

Tsinghua University ranks first in China and twentieth globally according to QS 2025 rankings. As one of Asia's top academic institutions, it has produced many of China's leaders over a century. This visit marks a strategic milestone in strengthening cooperation between Abu Dhabi and Beijing in innovation and executive education.

Dr Poulin concluded by emphasising ADSM's role in preparing globally-minded business leaders capable of innovating in a changing economy. He affirmed that ADSM aims to graduate leaders ready to succeed internationally and contribute to enhancing UAE's global competitiveness.