China's Xinjiang holds trade and investment conference in Dubai

China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region held a trade and investment conference in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), on Sunday. Businesses showcased their products and services in the Middle East, hoping to future boost economic ties between the two regions.

A key aspect of the event is to promote trade between Xinjiang and Dubai. Despite the geographical distance, Xinjiang has maintained a leading role in sub-national friendly cooperation with UAE. In 2025, trade between the two sides reached 5 billion yuan ($720 million), surging more than 80 percent year on year.

Yin Zhiqiang, deputy secretary-general of the Xinjiang Council of China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) and the Xinjiang Chamber of China Chamber of International Commerce, said the goal of the conference is to leverage Xinjiang CCPIT's overseas resources and networking advantages to facilitate exchanges and cooperation between entrepreneurs from Xinjiang and Dubai, strengthening ties in trade, logistics, industry, and investment.

However, the exchange goes far beyond commerce. Xinjiang is also stepping up its "soft power" outreach, showcasing its breathtaking landscapes and cultural diversity to entice travelers from across the Middle East.

Xinjiang needs to work harder in international promotion, sharing its stunning landscapes and unique cultural heritage, said Li Bin from Xinjiang Culture & Tourism Investment Group, adding that they hope to see Dubai become a major gateway for travelers to Xinjiang.

For those who have already experienced the region, they see Xinjiang as a land of opportunity and authentic beauty.

"I'm very happy to see some companies coming from Xinjiang to exhibit their products, and also happy to participate in the investment promotion summit," said Kassem Tofailli, president of Arab Chinese Cooperation and Development Association, adding that Xinjiang has a very promising future, emploring people to visit Xinjiang, to see the region with their own eyes.

As trade routes expand and tourism flourishes, the bond between the Tianshan Mountains and the Arabian Peninsula is set to reach new heights.