As 2026 approaches, Trust Drives Growth defines the next chapter of UAE–Africa economic relations. The United Arab Emirates prepares for steady expansion at home. However, leaders now focus on the quality of partnerships abroad. While capital still matters, credibility shapes outcomes across African markets.
The UAE expects economic growth of 3.4 percent over the next two years. At the same time, policymakers are deepening engagement across Africa. Between 2019 and 2023, Emirati entities committed more than $110 billion across the continent. That scale placed the UAE among the world’s top investors in Africa. Yet today, strategy matters more than size.
Non-oil trade with South Africa reached $8.5 billion in 2024. These rising volumes reflect stronger commercial ties. Nevertheless, investors now face more complex political and regulatory environments. Elections, policy reforms, and regional integration efforts influence deal-making. Therefore, officials prioritize long-term trust over short-term gains.
Earlier engagements in parts of West and Central Africa shaped this recalibration. Some projects struggled when political leadership changed. As a result, Emirati institutions redesigned their approach. Instead of stepping back, they now engage new governments quickly. They build continuity through dialogue and sustained presence.
This shift appears across government structures. The Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Investment, and the Ministry of Foreign Trade coordinate outreach. Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi has advanced commercially focused diplomacy. Consequently, private sector partnerships now move faster and operate with clearer mandates.
Moreover, investors no longer deploy open-ended funding. They negotiate structured agreements that protect shared interests. Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements strengthen trade frameworks. Etihad Credit Insurance supports risk mitigation. Bilateral treaties and tax arrangements add predictability. These tools reduce uncertainty and increase confidence.
Energy and renewables highlight this transformation. Institutions such as Masdar open doors through strategic projects. Their initiatives create goodwill and local partnerships. Then private firms expand operations through joint ventures. Companies like Infinity Power and AMEA Power align investments with development goals. They balance risk while supporting infrastructure needs.
In addition, communication strategy plays a larger role. Investors monitor political signals and regulatory trends closely. They engage communities and stakeholders before launching projects. Clear messaging protects reputations during volatile periods. In this environment, Trust Drives Growth becomes more than a slogan. It shapes decision-making at every level.
African governments also adapt to this evolving landscape. They present transparent regulations and stable policies. They demonstrate awareness of investor expectations. As competition for Gulf capital increases, credibility becomes a competitive advantage.
Ultimately, the Gulf–Africa corridor continues to mature. Both sides recognize that relationships determine resilience. Financial power opens doors, but sustained dialogue keeps them open. As 2026 nears, Trust Drives Growth stands at the center of UAE–Africa cooperation.
