Over the past four years, the UAE has solidified its position as a leading foreign investor in Africa, investing over USD 118 billion across diverse sectors. While mining, energy, technology, and logistics remain key areas, tourism is rapidly becoming a strategic focus for Emirati engagement, fueled by both private and state-backed investments.
As African nations aim to broaden and diversify their hospitality sectors, Emirati investors are responding with projects that blend long-term commercial goals with capacity-building initiatives. From the Comoros to Morocco, and along Tanzania’s coast to Egypt’s historical sites, the UAE is actively reshaping tourism infrastructure in both established and emerging markets. This trend signifies not only economic opportunities but also a broader diplomatic strategy: leveraging tourism for economic diversification,job creation,and enhanced regional connectivity.
Private Sector Expansion: Hospitality Projects Across Africa
UAE-based companies are at the forefront of Africa’s evolving tourism sector. On October 27th, Mayan Properties, a subsidiary of Resources Investment, partnered with Accor to develop five new hotel projects. These include a 159-room Mövenpick in Moroni (Comoros) and a 170-room Novotel in Nouakchott (Mauritania). Prior to this, Mayan Properties already operated in Chad, Guinea, Morocco, the Republic of Congo, and Somalia, demonstrating a extensive continental strategy extending beyond just hospitality.
Key Takeaways
- The UAE has become a major investor in African tourism, committing over USD 118 billion in the last four years.
- Emirati investment focuses on both commercial returns and building local capacity within the tourism sector.
- Projects are geographically diverse, spanning north, West, and East Africa.
- Mayan Properties and Accor are key players driving this expansion with new hotel developments.
