The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening economic ties with African countries, with plans to expand investments in renewable energy, infrastructure, logistics and digital technology.
Speaking in a recent interview, UAE Minister of State Saeed Al Hajeri said Africa remains a key partner in the country’s long-term economic strategy. He noted that the UAE is focused on building lasting partnerships that support sustainable development while creating economic opportunities across the continent.
According to him, renewable energy, transport infrastructure and digital innovation offer some of the biggest opportunities for deeper collaboration between the UAE and African nations. He revealed that the UAE invested about $71.32 billion in Sub-Saharan Africa between 2021 and 2025, reflecting its growing economic engagement in the region.
Al Hajeri said the UAE has committed more than $70 billion to renewable and green energy projects in Africa, including initiatives led by Masdar and the Etihad 7 programme. He added that the country is also expanding investments in ports, transport corridors and electricity infrastructure through organisations such as DP World, AD Ports Group and the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development.
He explained that these investments are designed to improve trade, reduce business costs, expand access to reliable electricity, create employment opportunities and support the transfer of technology and technical skills to local economies.
The minister added that the UAE is working closely with African governments and private sector stakeholders to identify priority projects that promote sustainable economic growth and deliver long-term benefits.
He also described Africa as central to the UAE’s economic diversification agenda, noting that the country’s Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements with several African nations demonstrate its commitment to increasing trade and investment. The UAE aims to expand its foreign trade to AED4 trillion by 2031, with Africa expected to play a major role due to its growing population, urbanisation and rising consumer demand.
Beyond traditional sectors, Al Hajeri said the UAE is investing in emerging technologies to support Africa’s digital future. He highlighted the country’s $1 billion Artificial Intelligence Development in Africa initiative, launched during the G20 Summit in South Africa, which is intended to support AI-driven projects that strengthen digital ecosystems and drive economic and social development.
He reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to maintaining long-term partnerships with African countries, describing the relationship as one built on shared prosperity, mutual trust and sustainable growth.
