UAE Showcases Digital Innovations At China's Global Digital Trade Expo As Guest Of Honour

The fourth Global Digital Trade Expo wrapped up in Hangzhou, China, with the UAE and Indonesia as official Guests of Honour. This participation underscored the UAE's prominent role in digital transformation and its dedication to fostering a knowledge-based economy. The event showcased advancements in artificial intelligence, digital health, virtual reality, e-commerce, cybersecurity, and smart city technologies.

At the expo, the UAE highlighted its leading projects in financial technology and smart innovations through its national pavilion. Abdullah Al Bashi Al Naemi, the UAE's Commercial Attaché to China, stated that their involvement signifies strong economic ties between the UAE and China. He emphasised that it also strengthens the UAE's position as a major player in the global digital economy.

Al Naemi noted that digital trade has seen significant progress in the UAE recently. This growth is driven by the Digital Economy Strategy, aiming to increase the sector’s contribution to 20% of non-oil GDP by 2031. The strategy reflects the country's commitment to enhancing its digital landscape.

Economic relations between the UAE and China have experienced substantial growth over 41 years of diplomatic ties. Al Naemi highlighted that trade volume has surged more than 800-fold during this period. In the first half of 2025 alone, non-oil trade surpassed US$50 billion.

The number of Chinese companies operating in the UAE rose from 15,500 in 2024 to over 16,500 currently. This increase demonstrates the attractiveness and adaptability of the UAE's business environment for international enterprises.

Impact on Global Cooperation

Expo officials acknowledged that the UAE played a crucial role in promoting global cooperation in digital trade. This contribution is supported by robust infrastructure and an increasing share of GDP from the digital economy. The expo served as a platform for showcasing these strengths and fostering international partnerships.

The event concluded with a focus on future collaborations and innovations in digital trade. The UAE's participation highlighted its strategic importance and ongoing efforts to lead in global digital transformation initiatives.

With inputs from WAM