UAE Highlights Digital Economy and AI at Hangzhou Expo

The fourth Global Digital Trade Expo concluded on Monday in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China. The UAE participated as an official Guest of Honour, alongside Indonesia, reflecting its growing international stature in digital transformation and the knowledge economy.

The expo served as a platform for countries to demonstrate leadership in digital trade and foster international cooperation. The UAE’s presence highlighted its strategic role in advancing global partnerships in technology, e-commerce, and smart innovations.

Focus on Digital Innovation

This year’s edition of the expo emphasized cutting-edge innovations in artificial intelligence, digital health, virtual reality, e-commerce, cybersecurity, and smart city technologies.

Through its national pavilion, the UAE showcased leading projects in the digital economy, financial technology, artificial intelligence, and smart innovations. The display demonstrated the country’s commitment to integrating technology into economic growth and governance.

Strengthening UAE-China Relations

Abdullah Al Bashi Al Naemi, Commercial Attaché of the UAE to China, said that the UAE’s participation reflects the deep economic relations between the two countries. He noted that the country’s involvement reinforces its position as a key player in the global digital economy.

Al Naemi highlighted that digital trade in the UAE has seen significant progress in recent years, supported by the UAE’s Digital Economy Strategy, which aims to increase the sector’s contribution to 20 percent of non-oil GDP by 2031.

UAE’s Trade Growth with China

Al Naemi explained that UAE-China economic relations have strengthened considerably over the past four decades. Trade volume between the two nations has grown more than 800-fold since diplomatic ties were established 41 years ago, with non-oil trade exceeding US$50 billion in the first half of 2025.

The increasing number of Chinese companies in the UAE—rising from 15,500 in 2024 to more than 16,500 in 2025—reflects the attractiveness of the UAE’s business environment and its flexibility in accommodating international investors.

Promoting Global Digital Cooperation

According to expo officials, the UAE played a significant role in fostering global cooperation in digital trade. The country’s robust infrastructure, innovative policies, and expanding digital economy contributed to its reputation as a hub for technology-driven trade.

The UAE’s active participation underscored its strategic efforts to position itself at the forefront of digital transformation, offering opportunities for international collaboration and investment in advanced technological solutions.

National Pavilion Highlights

The UAE’s national pavilion showcased projects that demonstrate the practical applications of artificial intelligence, smart city technologies, fintech innovations, and other digital initiatives. These projects highlight the country’s dedication to a knowledge-based economy and its readiness to collaborate with global partners.

The pavilion served as a central hub for discussion and engagement, allowing participants to explore opportunities for trade, investment, and technology exchange with the UAE.

Future of UAE Digital Economy

Participation in the Global Digital Trade Expo aligns with the UAE’s long-term vision for digital economic growth. By investing in technology and innovation, the country aims to boost the contribution of the digital sector to non-oil GDP, attract global talent, and expand international trade networks.

Officials emphasized that such events strengthen bilateral and multilateral relations, fostering global economic integration and digital cooperation, which will continue to play a pivotal role in the UAE’s strategic growth.