Mohammed bin Rashid emphasises UAE’s commitment to Africa

Alignment of African growth with UAE vision

He noted that the continent's wealth of natural resources and its ambition to achieve sustainable tourism growth aligned with the UAE's vision for the future of global tourism.

UAE-Africa Tourism Investment Summit 2025

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid met with delegates attending the UAE-Africa Tourism Investment Summit 2025, which opened on Monday under the theme ‘Building Bridges for Sustainable Growth.’ The summit brought together tourism ministers, government leaders, and investors from across Africa, highlighting the UAE’s leadership in shaping global tourism and promoting sustainable, inclusive growth.

Welcoming delegates and promoting partnerships

During the meeting at Expo City Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed welcomed the delegates to the UAE, emphasising the importance of shared visions and innovative ideas to advance economic and development partnerships with African countries and consolidate existing collaborations.

Tourism as a driver of sustainable growth

He stressed that the tourism sector in particular offers significant potential to drive sustainable growth and strengthen cultural ties between peoples.

Africa’s role in the global economy

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid praised Africa’s growing role in shaping the global economy and highlighted the abundant opportunities and potential the continent presents. He underlined that UAE-Africa cooperation in tourism investment serves as a vital model for economic integration based on shared vision and mutual interests.

Tourism as a key sector

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid said, “Tourism is a vital contributor to our national economy and a sector that offers tremendous opportunities for continued growth and new partnerships. The UAE-Africa partnership holds immense promise and has always been characterised by a shared belief in discovering new avenues for cooperation to shape a better tomorrow.”

Summit attendance and discussions

During the meeting, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid was briefed on key discussions at the summit, attended by over 350 leaders, senior government officials, ministers, decision-makers, investors, and entrepreneurs from the UAE and 53 African countries.

Strengthening economic and tourism ties

The discussions focused on strengthening economic and tourism ties between the UAE and Africa, exploring new areas for cooperation and growth. This renewed effort aims to attract fresh investments across diverse sectors, notably tourism, supporting development aspirations across the African continent.

Participation of UAE and African officials

The meeting was also attended by Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism. African tourism and investment ministers expressed appreciation for the UAE’s pioneering economic model and its status as a top global tourist destination.

Recognition of UAE achievements

Delegates praised the UAE’s comprehensive economic development and successful tourism sector, noting its insights on attracting global investments and building world-class infrastructure. They also expressed hope for identifying new opportunities for collaboration and investment in tourism, supporting development roadmaps for both sides.

Key themes of the summit

Focusing on mutual interests, the UAE-Africa Tourism Investment Summit addressed key themes including investment in tourism projects, financing, infrastructure, hospitality, innovative tourism services, and sustainable development.