Africa: UAE Building 'Relationships of Dependence' Through Investment Across Africa

What the report says

Radio France Internationale, in an interview republished by AllAfrica, examines the United Arab Emirates’ expanding footprint in Africa and the criticism that its approach can create economic and political dependence. The article says the UAE has become a major investor on the continent over the past decade, with activity in ports, mining and other infrastructure, alongside deeper involvement in regional conflicts.

The piece draws on remarks from Jean-Loup Samaan, a Gulf-state researcher at the National University of Singapore, who says the UAE’s early Africa strategy was largely commercial, especially through Dubai-based DP World and port development. It has since taken on a more strategic dimension, particularly in the Horn of Africa, where commercial ties to port infrastructure have been linked to military goals. The article notes that the UAE has also been associated with support for different armed actors in conflicts, including in Sudan.

The report highlights concerns raised by an Financial Times investigation earlier in August, which described the UAE’s Africa policy as imperialist, a label Abu Dhabi rejects. Samaan says that term may be too strong, but argues the relationship can still be seen as one of dependence rather than aid. He also links Emirati involvement in Sudan to a broader pattern of backing military figures seen as opposed to political Islam.

The article adds that gold trade is an important part of this picture, with Dubai serving as a major hub for African gold and helping diversify the UAE’s economy.