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Koreans and Japanese in Dubai: Business, Tourism & Restaurants

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.

Image of two individuals at a podium with the DMCC logo, representing a business event possibly related to Korean and Japanese interests in Dubai, focusing on sectors like Business, Tourism Restaurants. The background features promotional graphics with text that may indicate the nature of the event or organization involved.

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.

A person from behind, likely a tourist or business traveler, stands on a moving walkway inside a modern airport terminal in Dubai. The architecture features elegant white arches and bright lighting, creating an inviting atmosphere. This setting highlights the diverse international community in Dubai, including Koreans and Japanese who visit for business, tourism, and to dine at local restaurants.

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 image showcases the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel in Dubai, a symbol of luxury and modern architecture. It stands on an artificial island against a clear blue sky, with waves lapping at the sandy shore in the foreground. This setting may attract Koreans and Japanese involved in business, tourism, or seeking culinary experiences at high-end restaurants.

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

Interior of one of the top 10 restaurants in Dubai to spend your Anniversary, featuring a stylish dining area with modern furniture and vibrant lighting. The space is divided into two sections; on the left, there is a bar with high stools and shelves stocked with an array of bottles under warm yellow lighting. On the right, the restaurant area includes comfortable chairs and tables set for dining under soft pink lighting that creates an intimate atmosphere. The walls are adorned with artistic decorations, including whimsical jellyfish-like designs on a dark panel and elegant dresses displayed within illuminated alcoves.

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

An elegant dining area with a panoramic view of Dubai’s skyline during twilight, showcasing a blend of Korean and Japanese aesthetics in the restaurant’s design. This setting highlights the fusion of cultures and the international appeal of Dubai as a hub for business, tourism, and diverse culinary experiences, including Korean and Japanese restaurants.

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

Interior of a sophisticated restaurant with warm ambient lighting, featuring a long wooden bar counter with built-in grills at each seating position. The restaurant’s design suggests a fusion of Korean and Japanese styles, reflecting the culinary experience one might find in Dubai where both Korean and Japanese businesspeople and tourists frequent such establishments for dining. The setting is indicative of high-end restaurants that cater to international tastes, combining business with gastronomy.
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