UAE Solidifies Position as Africa's Most Strategic Investment Partner

Strategic Insights -

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has solidified its position as Africa's most strategic investment partner, with total investments exceeding $110 billion between 2019 and 2023. The UAE's commitment to sustainable energy infrastructure in Africa has positioned the country as a pioneering force in the continent's energy transition. The country's investments in renewable energy, mining, and tourism sectors have significantly exceeded those of traditional Western investors.

Key Takeaways:

  • The UAE's total investment in Africa exceeded $110 billion between 2019 and 2023, with over $70 billion directed toward green, energy, and renewable energy sectors.
  • The UAE's renewable energy investments in Africa have significantly exceeded those of traditional Western investors, such as the United Kingdom, France, and China.
  • The UAE-Africa Tourism Investment Summit 2025 showcased over 100 investment projects valued at more than $6 billion, projected to create more than 70,000 jobs across the African continent.
  • Major Emirati corporations, such as DP World and Abu Dhabi Ports, have expanded their footprint in Africa, operating facilities in nine African countries, including Algeria, Angola, and South Africa.
  • The UAE's investment strategy also extends to carbon credit markets and sustainable forestry, with Sheikh Ahmed Dalmook al-Maktoum entering into agreements to sell carbon credits from forests in several African nations.
  • Tourism and investment partnerships with African nations represent a strategic pillar for expanding opportunities for Emirati companies, opening new markets, and facilitating knowledge exchange.
  • The UAE's domestic tourism investment growth has demonstrated strong momentum, with tourism investments reaching AED 28.8 billion in 2023 and expected to reach AED 35.2 billion in 2025.

Statistics:

  • The UAE's total investment in Africa exceeded $110 billion between 2019 and 2023.
  • Over 70% of the UAE's investments in Africa are directed toward green, energy, and renewable energy sectors.
  • The UAE's renewable energy investments in Africa have exceeded $70 billion.
  • The UAE-Africa Tourism Investment Summit 2025 showcased over 100 investment projects valued at more than $6 billion.
  • The projected jobs created by the investment projects showcased at the summit exceed 70,000.
  • Tourism investments in the UAE reached AED 28.8 billion in 2023 and are expected to reach AED 35.2 billion in 2025.

Sources:

  • Emirates News Agency (WAM)
  • Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism
  • Chatham House