The UAE is home to over 200 nationalities, seeking stability and opportunities in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Amongst the diverse communities in Dubai is the rising Asian Communities, where an estimated 3500 Japanese residents and little over 6000 Koreans consider it their home. Both communities have a lot in common, as they mainly include working professionals in the fields of energy, manufacturing, logistics and ICT.
Business
Dubai is home to over 300 Japanese businesses. About 140 Korean Companies have entered Dubai, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah in different fields including manufacturing, aviation, finance, construction and logistics.

According to Emirates News Agency, the growth of Korean Companies is on the rise. The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), the world’s flagship free zone and Government of Dubai Authority on commodities trade and enterprise, has announced membership growth in companies from the Republic of Korea of over 20 percent in the year to date. A further high-level agreement was announced in February 2024 between DMCC and the Korea Institute of Startup and Entrepreneurship Development (KISED) to boost global start-up growth.
Japanese companies in Dubai are active across various industries, such as automotive, plant-related sectors, wholesale/retail, transportation, and manufacturing. This diversity underscores the economic significance of Dubai to Japan. Historically, Dubai has been a vital trading hub, attracting world-class companies and embracing a versatile and diverse foreign workforce.
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Tourism
Dubai has witnessed an exceptional tourism performance post-pandemic. It is the world’s number one city destination for the year 2023, according to the Top 100 City Destinations Index by Euromonitor International.

It is reported that over 200,000 Korean tourists visit the UAE annually, with over 60 scheduled flights taking place monthly by Etihad Airways and Emirates Airlines between Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Seoul. Most recent reports show that the flow of Japanese tourists has reached a record of over 100,000 visitors during pre-pandemic times, with continuous flights scheduled between Tokyo Narita and Dubai.

The tourism sector’s performance closely parallels the emirate’s 3.3% GDP growth in the first nine months of 2023, further highlighting the symbiotic relationship between tourism and economic prosperity. Accommodation and food services activities witnessed a remarkable 11.1% growth, solidifying Dubai’s position as a global tourism leader.
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Restaurants
Dubai is a culinary melting pot, and its vibrant food scene is a testament to the city’s rich cultural diversity. Contemporary Asian Cuisines, including both Japanese and Korean Cuisines, are widespread across Dubai, attracting the attention of Asian and other ethnic communities.
1. Hoe Lee Kow at Dubai Hills
Nestled within Dubai Hills Business Park, this Michelin starred restaurant offers Contemporary Asian Cuisine with colorful, Korean elements embellishing its walls.
Average Cost for two: US $123

2. Nobu at Atlantis, The Palm
Experience authentic Japanese Cuisine by celebrity Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Nobu Dubai’s sleek décor and subtle lighting combine to create one of the city’s Michelin top restaurant selection.
Average Cost for two: US $136

3. Sumibiya at Dubai Deira Creek
A 1st among yakiniku-style restaurants in Dubai, Sumibiya offers up an interactive dining experience. The term yakiniku translates to “grilled meat,” and the restaurant translates to a fun Korean dining experience.
Average Cost for two: US $108
