Page 448 - MOET ENGLISH PR REPORT - OCTOBER 2025 (Part 1)

10/28/25, 8:46 AM UAE hosts UAE-Africa Tourism Investment Summit to forge a shared vision for sustainable tourism ventures across Africa
His Excellency highlighted that air traffic between the UAE and the African continent has been
witnessing remarkable growth, with a total of around 550 weekly flights operated by Emirati and African
airlines. This robust air network plays a key role in connecting both regions, enhancing opportunities for
cooperation and integration across transportation, tourism, and logistics sectors.

His Excellency further noted that tourism investments attracted by the UAE totaled AED 28.8 billion in
2023, increased to AED 32.2 billion in 2024, and are projected to reach AED 35.2 billion in 2025 —
reflecting the nation’s forward-looking vision for comprehensive and sustainable tourism development.

Sustainable investment vision

The summit aims to shape a sustainable investment vision, connecting the UAE with the African

continent and further advancing economic and investment relations between the two sides. It also seeks
to reaffirm their shared commitment to promoting sustainable tourism and fostering new partnerships
across the public and private sectors in all areas of mutual interest.

Promising tourism opportunities in Africa

The summit focused on exploring key investment opportunities for Emirati companies in Africa’s tourism

sector, including the development of tourism infrastructure, the construction of coastal resorts and
hotels, and the creation of entertainment destinations and emerging tourism cities. Discussions also
explored participation in green and sustainable tourism projects—particularly resorts powered by
renewable energy—as well as potential Emirati investments in African regional airlines, urban transport

networks, online booking platforms, and tourism-focused fintech solutions.

Tourism investment opportunities in the UAE

The summit also highlighted the diverse tourism investment opportunities available in the UAE market
for participants from African nations. These include business tourism, cultural centers and events, luxury
hotels and hospitality, as well as investments in eco-tourism and sustainable tourism, particularly within

nature reserves. Other areas of focus encompass family entertainment projects, theme parks, wellness
tourism, and heritage tourism.

H.E. Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais, Secretary-General Elect, UN Tourism, said: “Africa is rich in diverse and
exceptional tourism assets. Unlocking this potential requires bold visions and effective strategies to

attract investment and financing for infrastructure development, improve destination connectivity, and
empower the skills and capabilities of local human capital."

During the summit, Her Excellency outlined her ambitious vision to drive global tourism development in
her upcoming role as UN Tourism Secretary-General, emphasizing the need for innovative, actionable
solutions that generate lasting impact, especially in Africa, where tourism can serve as a vital engine for

economic, social, and cultural progress, and a catalyst for local community development across nations.

https://www.zawya.com/en/press-release/events-and-conferences/uae-hosts-uae-africa-tourism-investment-summit-to-forge-a-shared-vision-for-sustai… 4/5