The economic relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Africa is entering a new phase, driven by growing trade, investment, infrastructure development and logistics connectivity.
As African markets continue to expand and demand for infrastructure, manufacturing, energy and consumer products increases, the UAE is strengthening its position as a gateway connecting Africa with global markets.
Growing Trade and Investment Links
The UAE's economic engagement with Africa has expanded significantly in recent years. According to the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, UAE non-oil trade with Sub-Saharan Africa exceeded USD 126 billion in 2025, representing a 45% increase from the previous year.
The UAE has also developed a growing network of economic partnerships with African countries. Nine Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) have been signed with African countries, supporting efforts to reduce trade barriers and improve market access.
More than 30,000 African companies have established a presence in the UAE, further strengthening the country's role as a regional business and investment hub.
Logistics at the Centre of the Partnership
Logistics is becoming one of the most important areas of UAE–Africa economic cooperation.
UAE-based companies are investing in ports, industrial parks, distribution centres and other infrastructure designed to connect African businesses with regional and international markets.
For example, DP World and Kenya-based GulfCap Africa are developing the Mombasa Industrial Park, a planned 222-hectare Special Economic Zone in Kenya. The project is designed to attract foreign investment, expand local manufacturing capacity and strengthen connections between East African businesses and international markets.
These developments reflect a broader shift from traditional trade relationships toward integrated trade, logistics and industrial ecosystems.
Opportunities for Manufacturing and B2B Trade
Africa's growing population, urbanisation and industrial development are creating demand across sectors such as machinery, automotive components, construction equipment, energy products and industrial supplies.
For manufacturers and exporters, the UAE can provide an important platform for entering African markets.
Companies can potentially combine UAE-based warehousing, distribution and re-export capabilities with established logistics networks connecting the Middle East and Africa.
From Investment to Local Industrial Development
The UAE's Africa strategy is also increasingly focused on supporting local economic capacity.
Recent UAE-linked investments across Africa cover areas including ports, logistics, energy, mining, manufacturing, food security and digital infrastructure. The UAE has stated that these investments are intended not only to generate financial returns but also to support infrastructure development, employment, technology transfer and local industries.
Looking Ahead
The UAE's growing engagement with Africa highlights a broader transformation in global trade: businesses are increasingly looking for integrated trade corridors rather than isolated markets.
With its ports, logistics infrastructure, financial ecosystem and international business connections, the UAE is positioned to play an important role in connecting African markets with the Middle East, Asia and other global regions.
