The Dubai International Chamber Bangkok office has officially opened, becoming the Chamber’s 36th representative office worldwide. The launch is part of a large-scale strategy to grow Dubai’s international trade connections, especially with key markets in Southeast Asia.
The move strengthens the UAE’s position as a global business hub and opens new opportunities for trade, investment, and partnership between Dubai and Thailand.
Why Bangkok? Dubai’s focus on Thailand’s growing economy
Thailand is currently Dubai’s second-largest trading partner in Southeast Asia. Trade between the UAE and Thailand reached AED 20.9 billion in 2023. The new office aims to push this number higher by supporting businesses in both countries.
The Bangkok office will help Thai companies export more goods and services to Dubai, set up in the UAE, and find investment opportunities in the wider Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.
What the Bangkok office will do for Dubai businesses
For Dubai companies, the Bangkok office offers a valuable platform to explore partnerships, expand operations, and understand the local Thai market. It will connect Dubai entrepreneurs with government agencies, private sector players, and trade facilitators in Thailand.
Key functions of the new office include:
- Supporting Dubai companies interested in entering the Thai market
- Helping Thai companies invest or set up in Dubai
- Offering market insights and business matchmaking services
- Promoting bilateral trade and foreign direct investment (FDI)
A major milestone in Dubai’s global strategy
The launch of the Dubai International Chamber Bangkok office is part of Dubai’s wider vision to boost non-oil foreign trade to AED 2 trillion by 2026. The Chamber’s international office network now covers five continents, reflecting Dubai’s serious commitment to global economic growth.
Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, said the Chamber’s goal is clear: “We are working to make Dubai one of the world’s top business centers by opening up new global markets.”
Thailand–UAE trade: What’s driving the momentum?
Trade between Thailand and the UAE continues to grow, especially in automotive parts, electronics, precious metals, food products, and energy. Thailand also remains a top tourist destination for Emiratis, further boosting people-to-people ties.
The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) currently under negotiation between the UAE and Thailand is expected to enhance bilateral trade, reduce tariffs, and create a friendlier legal framework for business.
Thailand welcomes Dubai’s deeper engagement
Thailand’s government welcomed the move. The Thai Minister of Commerce, Phumtham Wechayachai, said, “We believe this new office will help improve the economic partnership between our two nations and help businesses on both sides grow and thrive.”
Dubai’s expanding global network of chambers
The Bangkok launch follows recent Dubai International Chamber office openings in Singapore, Vietnam, New Zealand, Australia, and Indonesia. Other cities with offices include London, New York, Sao Paulo, Hong Kong, and Addis Ababa.
With every new international office, the Chamber builds a bridge between Dubai and the world—making it easier for businesses abroad to consider Dubai as their gateway to global markets.
Benefits for startups, SMEs, and large firms
The Bangkok office will serve companies of all sizes. For startups and small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), it offers low-barrier access to Dubai’s fast-growing economy. For larger corporations, it provides a direct route to major investment opportunities across the UAE and beyond.
Key sectors expected to benefit from this cooperation include:
- Food and Agriculture
- Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals
- Logistics and Supply Chain
- Automotive and Industrial Machinery
- Technology and Smart Solutions
Trade missions and future events already underway
The Chamber is not wasting time. A high-level trade mission to Thailand accompanied the office launch. More events and business delegations are planned in the coming months, aimed at building real-world connections between companies.
These events help Thai companies meet Dubai business leaders face-to-face, which often leads to faster decision-making, stronger business relationships, and smoother market entry.
The Dubai Advantage: Why companies in Asia are looking West
Dubai offers Thai businesses a unique launchpad to reach over 2 billion consumers across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. With world-class infrastructure, easy access to capital, low taxes, and supportive government policies, Dubai is one of the most attractive markets for Asian investors.
The city also has a large Thai expat community, especially in the hospitality, retail, and wellness sectors, further strengthening the cultural and business links.
What’s next for the Dubai International Chamber?
With the launch of the Dubai International Chamber Bangkok office, Dubai is signaling its intention to play an even bigger role in Asia’s economic future.
According to Dubai Chambers, more international office launches are expected in strategic cities across Africa, Latin America, and Eastern Europe before the end of 2025.
As global trade dynamics shift, Dubai’s approach is proactive. By building international bridges today, the city is preparing itself—and its business community—for the opportunities of tomorrow.
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