Deputy Secretary for Justice Horace Cheung has touted Hong Kong's legal system on the second last day of SAR officials' visit to the Middle East, saying it facilitates foreign investment, and makes the city a leading arbitration centre.

Speaking at an investment forum in Sharjah, the United Arab Emirates, the official said the SAR is the only common law jurisdiction in China, which makes it a great springboard for foreign investment to enter the mainland from.

"The international commerce and international investment laws are originated from common law. And therefore, our common law allows us to closely connect with international business community," he said.

"The commercial and property laws of Hong Kong are comprehensive... the combined effect of all these is to provide investors with solid legal protection, whether they are investing in Hong Kong, or channeling investment through Hong Kong to the mainland or to other economies."

Cheung said the well-established legal system and a comprehensive dispute resolution mechanism have provided a solid foundation for establishing Hong Kong as a major international legal and dispute resolution centre.

He noted that Hong Kong ranked the third most popular seat for arbitration in 2021, while some judges from the SAR are serving in courts in the UAE to deal with financial disputes.

"This is evidence that our common law system and judges are highly recognised on the international plane and also here in UAE,” he added.

Chief Executive John Lee is leading a delegation in a visit to Saudi Arabia and the UAE, aimed at boosting business ties.

Earlier in the week, Lee told a technology exhibition in Riyadh that Hong Kong is now “wide open” for tourists and businesses.