Abu dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Shanghai Foreign Investment Development Board (Invest Shanghai) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at bolstering economic and trade cooperation. The agreement was formalized during the Abu Dhabi Investment Forum (ADIF), an event organized by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Global Market and the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development.
According to Emirates News Agency, the MoU marks a pivotal move to transform the burgeoning economic relationship between Abu Dhabi and Shanghai into actionable strategies and joint projects that will foster business growth and enhance mutual investments. This collaboration is expected to result in sustainable partnerships between the business communities of the two cities, reinforcing their status as leading global centers for trade, investment, and innovation.
The MoU was signed by Ali Mohamed Al Marzooqi, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, alongside Xue Feng, President of the Shanghai Foreign Investment Development Board.
The agreement arrives amidst growing economic and commercial ties between Abu Dhabi and China, with Chinese firms actively engaging in various sectors within the Emirate such as trade, construction, manufacturing, and financial services. Notably, new memberships by Chinese companies with the Chamber increased by 85% in 2025 compared to 2024, highlighting Abu Dhabi's appeal as a significant hub for Chinese investment.
The MoU provides a structured framework for cooperation, focusing on the exchange of information about business environments, investment opportunities, and enhancing investor services. It also includes organizing economic events and forums to encourage interaction between businesses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai.
The areas of collaboration encompass joint investment promotion, leveraging international networks and overseas offices, and organizing reciprocal trade missions. These initiatives aim to explore new opportunities and reinforce economic connections between the two cities.
Ali Mohamed Al Marzooqi emphasized the importance of the MoU as a milestone in fortifying the economic partnership between Abu Dhabi and China. He highlighted the Chamber's role in empowering the private sector to seize global opportunities and enhance access to high-growth strategic markets, aligning with efforts to strengthen Abu Dhabi's position as a global business hub.
Xue Feng expressed satisfaction with the establishment of an institutional framework supporting the strategic partnership, which will facilitate the exchange of expertise and investment opportunities. He anticipates that this partnership will lead to tangible outcomes and joint projects benefiting the business communities in both Abu Dhabi and Shanghai.