Dubai: Africa’s Gateway to Global Business Growth
As Africa’s economic influence continues to rise, Dubai is increasingly recognised as a pivotal partner in the continent’s global trade ambitions. Dubai offers more than just a geographical link to key international markets; its dynamic ecosystem empowers African businesses to amplify their reach and impact on a global scale.
Dubai’s attraction for African businesses lies in its unique blend of world-class infrastructure, business-friendly regulations, and exceptional connectivity. Strategically positioned at the crossroads of East and West, the emirate offers unparalleled access to regional and international markets across Asia, Europe, and beyond. This advantageous position enables Dubai to function as a launchpad for African companies seeking to expand their footprint and tap into new opportunities.
“Dubai recognises the immense potential of African businesses and the vital role they play in the global economy,” says H.E. Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers. “We are committed to strengthening the connections between our business communities and providing African companies with the resources and support they need to ensure their successful expansion from Dubai to the world.”
In addition to the benefits of its favourable geographic location, Dubai has cultivated a business-focused culture with streamlined processes and a supportive regulatory environment. The government’s proactive implementation of policies designed to ensure economic stability and attract foreign investment has cemented the emirate’s reputation as an attractive business destination.
The presence of numerous sector-specific free zones further enhances Dubai’s appeal for African businesses. These offer access to specialised infrastructure, attractive incentives, and simplified business procedures, and cater to a broad range of industries including technology, finance, logistics, media, and healthcare.
Dubai’s robust infrastructure encompasses modern airports, seaports, and logistics facilities, all seamlessly integrated with a well-developed transportation network. With direct flight connections to major cities across the globe, the city’s global connectivity plays a crucial role in facilitating international trade and business operations.
A multicultural and highly skilled workforce further enriches Dubai’s business environment. The city attracts talent from diverse regions, providing businesses with access to a broad pool of experienced professionals, each bringing unique perspectives and expertise.
Catalysing Connections and Growth
Dubai Chambers plays a pivotal role in accelerating the growth in trade and investments between Dubai and Africa. With a strategic network of seven international representative offices across the continent, Dubai International Chamber – one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers – provides comprehensive on-ground support for African businesses. Located in strategic markets, these offices foster closer collaboration with the African business community, building impactful partnerships with key stakeholders in the public and private sectors. They also provide timely investment intelligence to assist companies and investors from Africa seeking to enter the Dubai market and leverage the emirate as a gateway for global expansion.
In addition, Dubai Chambers facilitates trade missions, business forums, and networking events, bringing together African and Dubai-based companies to explore potential partnerships and investment prospects. During 2024, Dubai Chambers organised eight trade missions to key markets worldwide, including four in Morocco, Senegal, Tanzania, and Uganda. These eight missions resulted in 2,227 productive B2B meetings, creating a vital platform for businesses to forge strategic partnerships and unlock new opportunities.
By the end of 2024, a total of 26,910 African companies were registered as active members of Dubai Chamber of Commerce, reflecting annual growth of more than 29%. A further 2,292 new members from Africa joined the chamber during Q1 2025, underlining increasing confidence in Dubai as a strategic hub among African companies and investors. The tangible impact of this growing collaboration can be seen in the value of bilateral non-oil trade between Dubai and African nations, which reached an impressive AED 257.7 billion during the first nine months of 2024 alone.
A Gateway to Opportunity
Dubai Chambers provides comprehensive support to African companies seeking to establish a presence in Dubai, including tailored market entry strategies, assistance in navigating the regulatory landscape, and connecting companies with potential investors through business matching services.
For companies in the tech space, Expand North Star – the world’s largest gathering for startups and investors – serves as an important platform for African startups to showcase their innovations on the global stage. Hosted by Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, this annual event reinforces Dubai’s status as a global destination for innovation and a capital of the digital economy. Last year’s edition attracted over 1,800 startups and over 1,200 investors with assets under management exceeding US$ 1 trillion, creating ample opportunities to build new connections and secure funding.
“The future for African companies in Dubai is exceptionally bright,” adds H.E. Lootah. “At Dubai Chambers, we remain committed to fostering a supportive ecosystem where African businesses can thrive, innovate, and contribute to the global economy. Dubai is more than just a gateway – our goal is to empower the business community across the continent and be an active partner in Africa’s economic development.”
Dubai’s strategic location, business-friendly environment, and commitment to fostering collaboration position it as the ideal launchpad for African businesses seeking to expand their global footprint. As Africa’s economic influence continues to expand, Dubai is poised to play an increasingly vital role in its success.
