Africa’s tourism industry is set for a major boost as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced a $6 billion investment plan aimed at accelerating the continent’s travel, hospitality, and infrastructure development. The initiative, expected to create 70,000 new jobs, underscores the UAE’s deepening economic ties with Africa amid record-breaking tourism growth across the region.
The announcement was made during the UAE–Africa Tourism Investment Summit 2025 in Dubai, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
Organised by the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism in partnership with The Bench as part of the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) World 2025, the high-level event brought together ministers, investors, and industry leaders to explore strategic opportunities across aviation, logistics, digital transformation, and sustainable tourism development.
During a ministerial roundtable chaired by H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism, delegates from over 20 African nations signed a joint statement committing to enhanced collaboration in tourism infrastructure, connectivity, and green innovation.
“Today, the UAE and Africa stand at a pivotal moment in building a resilient and sustainable tourism future,” said H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri. “This milestone marks the launch of a new investment mapping initiative covering aviation, logistics, infrastructure, and digital sectors—valued at around $6 billion and set to create 70,000 job opportunities across Africa.”
He added that Africa’s vast tourism assets, ranging from its pristine coastlines and natural reserves to its cultural and heritage landmarks, present exceptional opportunities for UAE businesses seeking to expand their footprint across the continent.
“We are committed to turning ideas into tangible, sustainable tourism projects that drive growth, job creation, and cross-regional prosperity,” he said.
The joint statement also highlighted shared goals to improve air transport connectivity, advance small and medium enterprise (SME) partnerships, and promote inclusive, environmentally responsible growth in the tourism sector.
Spotlight on FHS Africa 2026
Building on the momentum from Dubai, attention now turns to Future Hospitality Summit Africa (FHS Africa) 2026, the continent’s premier hospitality investment forum. The event will convene senior policymakers, investors, and industry executives to accelerate deal-making and chart Africa’s tourism growth trajectory.
“FHS Africa will play a pivotal role in translating the $6 billion investment framework into actionable projects and partnerships,” said Roy Bannister, Head of Strategic Partnerships for Africa at The Bench. “Our focus is on creating long-term value for Africa’s tourism economy through innovation, collaboration, and sustainable development.”
With the UAE’s strategic investment and Africa’s growing tourism potential, the partnership signals a new era of opportunity and shared prosperity for both regions.
