These figures echo a general trend of growing trade between the two nations, which experiences a growth surge of 45% between 2020 and 2023, reflecting a shared commitment from both nations to strengthen economic links. In 2023 alone, South Africa's imports from the UAE reached USD$4-billion, while its exports to the UAE stood at USD$2.53-billion, says the duo.

Investment flows between the two nations are also accelerating. UAE investments in South Africa exceeded USD$1.3-billion in 2024, while South Africa's foreign direct investment into the UAE crossed USD$600-million during the same period, adds the duo.

This growing momentum aims to lead new initiatives to foster business collaboration. The South Africa Business Group in the UAE was established with an aim to connect companies and boost trade. Dubai Chamber also opened an office in South Africa, and major MoUs were signed between the UAE Federation of Chambers of Commerce and key South African business councils, says the duo.

The UAE's infrastructure, tax-free environment, location and financial system continue to attract South African businesses seeking to expand into the region. In parallel, several UAE companies — including ADNOC, DP World, AMEA Power, Infinity Energy and AWS Distribution — have launched operations in South Africa. Key sectors driving bilateral interest include agriculture, fintech, AI, manufacturing, renewable energy, digital economy, healthcare and education. These industries aim to not only attracting investment but also create opportunities for people on both sides, says the duo.

Recent years have seen several landmark agreements, including AMEA Power's 2023 power purchase deal for an 85MW solar PV plant, the opening of Dubai Chamber's Johannesburg office and Infinity Power's acquisition of Lekela Power, marking Africa’s largest renewable energy transaction to date. In 2024, ADNOC acquired OMV's South African petrochemical assets, DP World expanded into South African logistics and AMEA Power signed a 20-year agreement for the 120MW Dornhoek solar project, valued at USD$120-million, adds the duo.

With these milestones, UAE–South Africa economic relations hope to enter a new era of growth and partnership, underpinned by shared ambitions for sustainable development and long-term prosperity, concludes the duo.

*Image courtesy of contributor