His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance of the UAE, recently hosted a high-level meeting with Wang Chuanfu, Chairman, CEO, and Co-Founder of Chinese electric vehicle powerhouse BYD. The January 16, 2026, meeting focused on expanding bilateral cooperation within the automotive sector, specifically accelerating the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles and advancing sustainable mobility solutions across the Emirates, aligning with the UAE’s ambitious transition toward a low-carbon economy.
Key Drivers for Electrification Collaboration
The discussions, held at His Highness’s office, underscored the UAE’s strategic efforts to secure partnerships with international industry leaders that support future-ready industries. This aligns directly with the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategy, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to mitigating climate impact through economic transformation.
For global companies like BYD, the UAE market presents a compelling opportunity. Dubai’s rapidly expanding economic landscape, characterized by a proactive, pro-business regulatory environment and forward-thinking policies, has cemented its status as a critical regional hub for major automotive and mobility firms targeting Middle Eastern growth.
The meeting also highlighted how international organizations can leverage Dubai’s increasing reputation as a beacon for innovation and international investment. This synergy supports the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position the city among the top three urban economies globally by 2033.
BYD’s Global Footprint and Expertise
Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Shenzhen, China, BYD is a high-tech conglomerate dedicated to technical innovation across several key sectors, including electronics, automobiles, renewable energy, and rail transit. Its commitment to sustainable technology has made it one of the world’s leading manufacturers of new energy vehicles (NEVs).
The company’s scale is significant. In 2024, BYD reported annual revenues exceeding RMB 700 billion (approximately $98 billion USD). As of April 2025, the company’s new energy vehicles have established a market presence in over 100 countries and territories worldwide, positioning them as a global leader in EV production and battery technology.
Dubai’s Government Strategy for Mobility
The discussions surrounding potential collaboration were attended by a powerful contingent of Dubai and UAE officials, signaling the strategic importance of the automotive transition.
Senior attendees included His Excellency Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs; His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications; and His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors for the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
The presence of key leaders from infrastructure and commerce, such as the heads of the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), demonstrates a holistic approach to integrating sustainable mobility. Successful electrification requires synchronized efforts across energy generation, transportation infrastructure, financial investment, and regulatory frameworks.
This meeting is expected to pave the way for tangible joint venture announcements, supply deals, or investments that could accelerate the deployment of advanced EV fleets within Dubai’s public and private sectors. Partnerships with companies like BYD are instrumental as Dubai modernizes its transportation system to meet ambitious sustainability targets and maintain its competitive advantage as a global urban center.