In this paper, I focus on Chinese BRI-investments in two Arab countries: Oman and Syria. In the case of Oman, a stable economy in the Arab Gulf region, I specifically look into Chinese investment in one of Oman’s ports, Duqm. I argue that Chinese investment can be engaged in Oman to ensure positive spill-over impact to the economy in terms of diversifi cation, increased non-oil exports, and the preservation of the local content. In the case of Syria, a conflict economy, I focus on how China can play a role in Syria’s reconstruction and rehabilitation after 8 years of war-induced destruction and Western-imposed sanctions. As demonstrated from these two case studies, Chinese involvement in these Arab countries has been constructive and conducive to building productive capacity and the betterment of social conditions attendant thereupon.