Page 471 - MOET ENGLISH PR REPORT - OCTOBER 2025 (Part 1)

He stated: "The UAE continues to play an active role as a developmental partner for the African
continent through its consistent support for sustainable economic and tourism growth. In this
context, hosting this summit under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al
Maktoum reflects our steadfast commitment to expanding Emirati investments in Africa and
building fruitful partnerships with counterparts in both the public and private sectors. The summit
also marks a new milestone in strengthening economic and tourism cooperation between the UAE
and the African continent."

The minister highlighted that between 2019 and 2023, Emirati companies invested more than USD
110 billion in new projects across Africa, positioning the UAE among the world's top four investors
on the continent-after the United States, China, and the European Union-and as the leading global
investor in terms of new project volume. These investments cover key sectors such as renewable
energy, tourism destinations, logistics corridors, and digital infrastructure, reflecting the UAE's
belief that driving sustainable development in Africa is not only vital for the continent's future, but
also essential for global growth and long-term economic stability.
The Minister of Economy and Tourism continued: "Tourism is one of the key drivers of sustainable
development and global economic growth. Beyond being a leisure activity, it plays a crucial role in
creating employment, empowering small and medium-sized enterprises, and fostering economic
and investment cooperation between countries. In Africa, the sector is still recovering from the
pandemic. International data indicates that prior to the crisis, it supported over 22 million jobs and
contributed around USD 180 billion to the continent's GDP. Estimates further suggest that the travel
and tourism industry could add approximately USD 168 billion to Africa's economy and generate
more than 18 million new jobs over the next decade, highlighting the significant potential of this
sector to advance sustainable development."

He said: "Africa is home to a wealth of rich and diverse tourism assets - from coastal resorts and
pristine beaches to cultural, heritage, and historical landmarks. These unique features present vast
opportunities for the UAE business community and serve as a vital gateway for investment and
expansion across various tourism activities. We are committed to fully leveraging this platform to
transform ideas into tangible and sustainable tourism projects and partnerships that will help
shape the future of economic development across the African continent."

He 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.

He 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.

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.

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