Hong Kong has a far longer history of prominence then Dubai. It grew slower & it has lost its position slower. The underlying reasons for HK's importance have b

Hong Kong has a far longer history of prominence then Dubai. It grew slower & it has lost its position slower. The underlying reasons for HK's importance have been dissolving. There is no reason to use HK as an intermediary for dealings with China. There is no reason not to establish an office in the mainland. But being in slow relative decline meant has meant that they fared alright. (a) Decline Relative to China can still be reasonable growth. IE they can have a smaller share of a bigger pie. (b) The secondary industries: Tourism, financial services, consultancies etc. have had a chance to have a go on their own.