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At a time when global partnerships are being redefined, the UAE-Africa Tourism Investment Summit 2025, held in Dubai on 27 October 2025, marked a major milestone in the expanding relationship between the United Arab Emirates and the African continent. Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, the event reaffirmed the UAE’s strong commitment to deepening and expanding economic ties with African nations through sustainable investment and cross-sector collaboration.
Hosted at the Museum of the Future and organized by the Ministry of Economy in collaboration with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the summit attracted over 350 delegates from 53 African countries, including ministers, business leaders, and investors from both regions.
A Vision for Shared Prosperity
In his address, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum highlighted the UAE’s determination to be a trusted partner in Africa’s development story. He underscored the UAE’s shift from traditional trade relations to strategic, long-term investment partnerships built on innovation, sustainability, and cultural exchange.
“Africa is not just a market, it is a continent of opportunity, talent, and ambition,” Sheikh Mohammed said. “Our collaboration must reflect shared progress, sustainability, and prosperity for all.”
The reaffirmation is part of the UAE’s “We the UAE 2031” vision, which aims to position the country as a global hub for trade, tourism, and sustainable development, while also contributing to inclusive economic growth across emerging markets.
Key Outcomes of the Summit
The Dubai summit concluded with several landmark outcomes that will shape UAE-Africa cooperation in the coming decade:
Launch of a US $6 Billion Investment-Mapping Initiative
The UAE and more than 20 African countries agreed to jointly map and mobilize investment in key growth sectors; tourism, aviation, logistics, infrastructure, and digital services.
This initiative will provide data-driven insights into viable projects and connect investors directly with African governments and private stakeholders.
Tourism and Hospitality Development
Multiple African tourism boards signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Emirati entities to co-develop eco-resorts, heritage tourism zones, and digital tourism platforms. These projects are expected to create jobs, enhance connectivity, and promote sustainable tourism that benefits local communities.
Financing Mechanisms for Cross-Border Projects
The summit unveiled plans for new joint financing vehicles led by UAE sovereign and private funds to de-risk tourism and hospitality investments in Africa. This includes support for green tourism, digital booking platforms, and hospitality-training programs in emerging destinations.
Innovation and Knowledge Exchange
The UAE announced the establishment of a “Tourism Innovation Hub for Africa” in Dubai an incubator designed to train African entrepreneurs in digital marketing, smart tourism, and green-resort management technologies.
Read more here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1MVEqjrTiwDKNQv2z5qMaNF7gRqKg9tCh/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104401395919633590570&rtpof=true&sd=true
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