UAE-Africa Summit 2025: Sheikh Mohammed Backs Tourism Ties

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to strengthening economic partnerships with Africa, spotlighting the immense opportunities for growth and investment in the tourism sector.

Meeting delegates at the UAE-Africa Tourism Investment Summit 2025, held under the theme “Building Bridges for Sustainable Growth” at Expo City Dubai, His Highness highlighted tourism as a key driver of both economic progress and cultural exchange.

Welcoming ministers, investors, and government leaders from 53 African nations, Sheikh Mohammed underscored the shared vision between the UAE and Africa to shape a future of mutual prosperity. “Tourism is a vital contributor to our national economy and a sector that offers tremendous opportunities for continued growth and new partnerships,” he said, noting the importance of innovative cooperation to achieve sustainable development.

The summit, attended by more than 350 officials and decision-makers, served as a platform to explore new investment avenues across tourism, hospitality, and infrastructure. Discussions centered on boosting bilateral ties, encouraging private sector engagement, and supporting sustainable tourism models that benefit both regions.

African ministers and delegates praised the UAE’s global standing as a tourism leader and its success in creating a world-class tourism ecosystem. They expressed optimism that closer collaboration would help unlock Africa’s rich tourism potential while fostering inclusive economic growth.

With its focus on investment, innovation, and sustainability, the UAE-Africa Tourism Investment Summit 2025 reinforced Dubai’s role as a global hub for shaping the future of tourism and international cooperation.