Kampala Gears Up For High-Level Uganda-UAE Forum To Boost Investment, Innovation

By Gad Masereka

The relationship between Uganda and the United Arab Emirates continues to evolve into one of the most dynamic and mutually beneficial partnerships on the African continent, marked by expanding trade, deepening diplomatic engagement, and increased investment flows.

This growing cooperation took center stage again in Kampala as Uganda’s Ambassador to the UAE, Amb. Zaake Kibedi, addressed the press ahead of the fourth edition of the Uganda-UAE Business Forum, a platform designed to strengthen bilateral ties and unlock new opportunities for both nations.

The forum, jointly organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Uganda Embassy in Abu Dhabi, and the Consulate in Dubai, in collaboration with key UAE entities such as the Dubai Chambers and the Department of Economic Development, is seen as a cornerstone for advancing economic diplomacy.

Speaking during the press briefing, Ambassador Kibedi described the event as “a signature platform for advancing economic and commercial cooperation” between Uganda and the UAE, adding that it has consistently delivered tangible outcomes since its inception.

Over the years, the forum has alternated between the two capitals, drawing participation from investors, policymakers, and entrepreneurs.

This year’s edition, according to Ambassador Kibedi, will run for three days and include field visits, high-level policy dialogues, business-to-business engagements, and investment exhibitions.

The event’s thematic areas span critical sectors such as agribusiness, tourism, renewable energy, mining, infrastructure development, and technology. “Our aim is not only to attract investment but also to foster partnerships that support innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth,” he said.

The ambassador emphasized that the relationship between Uganda and the UAE has evolved into a strategic partnership anchored in shared goals of economic transformation and technological advancement.

He revealed that diplomatic and commercial engagements between the two nations have intensified, particularly following reciprocal high-level visits. “In January this year, President Yoweri Museveni visited the United Arab Emirates, and in May, the UAE’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, paid a return visit to Uganda.

These visits culminated in the signing of six memoranda of understanding across sectors such as investment protection, energy, transport, digital transformation, and capacity building,” he said.The results of this cooperation are already visible.

Ambassador Kibedi noted that foreign direct investment from the UAE to Uganda has grown more than tenfold over the past five years from 300 million dollars in 2018 to 3.5 billion dollars last year, making the UAE Uganda’s top source of foreign investment.

Trade between the two countries has also expanded significantly, with the UAE emerging as Uganda’s leading export destination globally. “As of September last year, the trade volume stood at 2.85 billion dollars. This marks a major milestone since our traditional export destinations have long been regional neighbors,” he explained.

The ambassador further highlighted the growing human connection between the two nations. The number of Ugandans living and working in the UAE has increased from about 40,000 in 2018 to more than 160,000 today, contributing to a remarkable rise in remittances from 50 million to 350 million dollars over the same period. “The generosity and hospitality of the UAE people have created an enabling environment for Ugandans to thrive, and this people-to-people connection remains one of the strongest pillars of our partnership,” he said.

Ambassador Kibedi also pointed to improved connectivity as a key driver of this partnership. The number of flights between the two countries has grown to six daily connections, operated by Emirates, FlyDubai, Air Arabia, and Uganda Airlines. This development, he noted, has made travel and trade between the two nations more seamless than ever before, further reinforcing economic ties.

Speaking earlier, Margret Kafeero, the Head of Public Diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, underscored the importance of the Uganda-UAE Business Forum as a platform that reflects Uganda’s growing reputation as a preferred investment destination. “This forum continues to demonstrate that Uganda is ready to engage the world in meaningful and mutually rewarding partnerships. It builds upon the successes of previous editions held in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Kampala,” she said.

As preparations intensify, expectations are high that this year’s forum will yield new investment commitments and partnerships in key growth sectors.

For Uganda, the engagement is more than a business meeting it is a reaffirmation of the country’s vision to integrate with global markets while positioning itself as a competitive hub for trade, innovation, and enterprise.

Ambassador Kibedi also noted that the Uganda-UAE relationship exemplifies a modern model of south-south cooperation grounded in mutual respect and shared prosperity. “Our partnership stands as a testimony to what is possible when nations collaborate in good faith and with clear purpose. Together, we are building not just bridges of commerce, but lasting bonds of friendship and opportunity,” he said.