Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, has reiterated the United Arab Emirates' dedication to bolstering its economic relations with African nations, emphasizing the potential for growth and investment, particularly in the tourism sector. He noted the alignment of Africa's rich natural resources and aspirations for sustainable tourism with the UAE's global tourism vision.
According to Emirates News Agency, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid made these remarks while meeting with delegates at the UAE-Africa Tourism Investment Summit 2025. The summit, themed 'Building Bridges for Sustainable Growth,' commenced on Monday and gathered tourism ministers, government leaders, and investors from across Africa, underscoring the UAE's influence in global tourism and commitment to sustainable growth.
During the meeting at Expo City Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed welcomed the summit delegates, highlighting the importance of shared visions and innovative ideas in advancing economic and development partnerships with African countries. He emphasized the tourism sector's role in fostering sustainable growth and cultural connections. He praised Africa's increasing role in the global economy and noted the potential for economic integration through tourism investment, based on shared interests and visions.
Sheikh Mohammed stated, "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."
The summit, attended by over 350 leaders, senior government officials, and entrepreneurs from the UAE and 53 African countries, focused on enhancing economic and tourism ties and exploring new cooperation areas to stimulate growth. The discussions aimed to attract investments into various sectors, particularly tourism, supporting the development goals of African nations.
Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, also attended the meeting. African tourism and investment ministers expressed appreciation for the UAE's economic and development model and its status as a leading global tourist destination. They admired the UAE's economic achievements and tourism sector success, expressing hopes for identifying new collaboration and investment opportunities in tourism, advancing development plans for both the UAE and African countries.
The UAE-Africa Tourism Investment Summit is addressing crucial themes such as investment in tourism projects, financing, infrastructure, hospitality, innovative tourism services, and sustainable development.