Strengthening Dubai-South Africa Trade Relations to AED 29.2bn

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

The Dubai Chamber of Commerce has successfully facilitated 674 business meetings between companies from Dubai and their South African counterparts in Johannesburg and Cape Town. This initiative is part of the chamber's broader strategy to enhance international trade and investment opportunities.

These meetings took place under the chamber's 'New Horizons' initiative, designed to assist Dubai firms in penetrating emerging global markets and fostering robust international business relationships.

A diverse delegation of 24 Dubai-based companies, spanning industries including construction, electronics, and FMCG, participated in the trade mission.

Additionally, the Dubai-South Africa Business Forum was organized, in collaboration with the UAE Embassy in Pretoria and key local organizations. This gathering drew 520 attendees, comprising government figures, business executives, and investors keen on exploring trade and investment avenues.

Salem Al Shamsi, Executive Vice President of International Relations at Dubai Chambers, emphasized the significance of the strengthened economic ties between the two regions while Advocate Mtho Xulu from the South African Chamber of Commerce contributed insights on investment prospects.

Al Shamsi noted that the mission is pivotal for reinforcing business connections and presents Dubai companies with the opportunity to engage with South Africa, a critical entry point into African markets.

With non-oil trade figures reaching AED 29.2 billion in 2025—a 265% increase from AED 8 billion in 2016—the burgeoning relationship is evident.

The robust ties are mirrored in Dubai Chamber’s membership growth, with 873 South African firms registered as members by Q1 2026, supplemented by 45 newcomers in early 2026.

This latest trade mission underscores Dubai's ongoing commitment to enhance its global trade network and unlock new business opportunities within African markets.

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