By Kirk Leigh
Dubai has moved to tighten its fast-growing commercial links with Africa, hosting some of the continent’s most influential industrialists and philanthropists for high-level talks on future investment and cooperation.
On 6 December, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE Vice-President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, met the African delegation at the Address Creek Harbour Hotel, accompanied by senior Emirati officials including Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed, Dubai’s First Deputy Ruler. The visit brought together leaders from across Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Egypt, Sudan and Zimbabwe, representing sectors that Matter deeply to both regions: energy, digital infrastructure, logistics, agriculture and food systems.
In remarks released by the Dubai Media Office, Sheikh Mohammed framed the meeting as part of a broader push to align Africa’s rapid economic dynamism with the UAE’s ambition to shape global development over the coming decades. “Our ties with Africa are rooted in deep historical, human and economic connections,” he said. “By working closely with partners across the continent, we aim to advance innovation, strengthen energy and food security, expand opportunity, and build pathways for more resilient, inclusive and sustainable economies.”
The discussions touched on a wide arc of strategic priorities — from conventional and renewable energy, to supply-chain and transport networks, to emerging technology and digital transformation. Delegates also explored blended investment models that combine public, private and philanthropic capital to accelerate inclusive development.
While the UAE’s economic footprint in Africa has grown steadily over the past decade, it has surged in recent years. Between 2019 and 2023, the country deployed more than $110bn on the continent, including over $70bn in renewable energy and green-infrastructure projects. The UAE has also launched a $1bn AI-for-Development initiative aimed at scaling artificial-intelligence solutions in education, agriculture and infrastructure.
The African business leaders’ visit will continue over several days, with further meetings scheduled with government officials, investment bodies and philanthropic institutions. Both sides are expected to explore new regulatory frameworks, co-investment platforms and long-term partnerships — part of Dubai’s wider effort to cement its position as a global hub linking capital, talent and innovation across the Middle East and Africa.
