United Arab Emirates News

UAE’s Expanding Presence in Africa

Emirates strengthens economic and geopolitical ties in Africa through strategic investments, security initiatives, and BRICS+ membership

UAE’s Expanding Influence in Africa: A Strategic Power Shift

The UAE’s increasing influence in Africa is sometimes overlooked in contrast to other BRICS nations. The UAE became Africa’s biggest foreign investor after joining the group in 2024, donating $50 billion in 2022. Its involvement has a major impact on both the continent and global geopolitics thanks to its huge resources and well-defined strategy.

Phases of UAE’s Engagement in Africa

1. Early 2000s – Economic Diversification

Dubai, with fewer oil reserves than Abu Dhabi, sought economic diversification.

Investments focused on infrastructure, tourism, agribusiness, and gold mining.

2. Post-Arab Spring – Security & Regional Influence

Early 2010s saw UAE engaging in the Horn of Africa to counter Qatar, Iran, and Türkiye.

Influence was increased through alliances with Ethiopia, Somaliland, and Puntland.

The ongoing violence was influenced by support for the opposition in Sudan.

3, Post-Epidemic: Prioritizing the Economy

The UAE put business first, expanding its alliances throughout Africa.

Security operations involving military bases and war participation persisted.

The humanitarian crisis has been exacerbated by alleged backing for Sudan’s RSF.

Strategic Investments and Interests

Africa is strategically significant in terms of resources, trading routes, and energy security.

Western decarbonization initiatives have strained relations with African countries that place a higher priority on economic development.

The UAE, bridging the divide, champions reforms in multilateral institutions while securing its energy interests.

Business-Driven Approach

UAE’s Africa strategy revolves around economic engagement, with major investments in logistics and infrastructure.

Key players:

Dubai Ports World (DP World) and AD Ports Group operate 13 ports in eight African nations.

With $27.6 billion in investments, Egypt has benefited the most.

Concerns about money laundering and conflict funding have been raised by the gold trade between Africa and the United Arab Emirates.

Membership in BRICS+ and Global Positioning

By joining BRICS+, the UAE maintains its Western connections while expanding its global reach.

The October 2024 BRICS+ Summit in Kazan showcased the group’s push for reforms.

With a seat at the table, the UAE enhances relations with China, Russia, and key African nations like South Africa, Egypt, and Ethiopia.

By leveraging its economic strength, infrastructure expertise, and geopolitical strategy, the UAE has cemented itself as a crucial player in Africa’s development while navigating complex global dynamics.

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