Source: CBH. Pictured at the Business Centre opening ceremony are (from left to right) Justin Wilshaw, SVP Commercial, Dubai South; Shoaib Alrahimi, VP, Business Park, Dubai South; Mohsen Ahmad, VP, Logistics District, Dubai South; alongside other senior officials and association representatives. 

The UAE’s first dedicated business center specifically designed for new and expanding Chinese startups and SMEs, known as the Chinese Business Hub (CBH), has officially opened its main office in Dubai South Business Park.

CBH aims to help Chinese companies and entrepreneurs establish a business presence in the UAE. They provide comprehensive business setup services, including fully furnished office spaces, procurement assistance, trade license and visa processing, dedicated receptionists, and conference facilities. This 30,000 square foot facility offers occupants a modern and well-equipped working environment.

HE Madam Li Ling Bing, the Consulate General for China in Dubai, expressed her hope that the Chinese Business Hub would function as a successful model for long-term economic cooperation between the UAE and China.

A key factor in the anticipated long-term success of the Chinese Business Hub is its strategic location within Dubai South. Situated near Dubai Expo 2020 and Al Maktoum International Airport, Dubai South is recognized as the UAE’s emerging hub for investment, business, and transportation. The area is crucial for maintaining Dubai’s status as a global investment destination. With 4,500 companies already registered in Dubai South, it is viewed as a prime entry point to developing markets in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.

The launch of CBH highlights Dubai South’s efforts to attract greater Chinese investment into Dubai and strengthen the presence of Chinese businesses in the region. 

Shoaib Alrahimi, Dubai South VP – Business Park, expressed his enthusiasm about welcoming CBH into their dynamic business community, emphasizing their commitment to providing the necessary foundation for this significant investment. 

Alex Chen, GM of CBH, added that the strategic positioning and forward-thinking planning of Dubai South has made it an attractive investment destination for Chinese companies. He expressed satisfaction in establishing their headquarters within this flagship masterplan city within a city. Chen believes Dubai South is poised for significant growth, and he expects both the business center and its clients to flourish alongside it, seeing Dubai South as the future of Dubai.

Dubai South offers logistical, investment, and strategic advantages for Chinese companies, enabling them to leverage Dubai as a gateway to broader regional and international markets. Notably, China is the UAE’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching US$64.4 billion in 2016. All of China’s top four banks also maintain branches in Dubai.

Furthermore, 13 Chinese cities are directly connected to Dubai through over 100 weekly flights. The Dubai government’s decision to grant visas upon arrival to all Chinese visitors further strengthens ties.

Currently, 2,829 Chinese companies are registered with the Dubai Chamber, and there are approximately 4,500 Chinese-owned businesses operating within the city. Chinese nationals are estimated to comprise around 10% of Dubai’s population. These factors, combined with existing strong attractions, ensure sustained high interest from Chinese companies in the UAE market.