Kampala, Uganda – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Uganda are experiencing a flourishing partnership, fueled by mutual respect, cooperation, and a shared vision for growth. This optimistic outlook comes courtesy of His Excellency Abdalla Al Shamsi, the UAE Ambassador to Uganda.
Ambassador Al Shamsi highlighted the strong foundation of the relationship, built on frequent high-level visits and investments in key sectors like aviation, renewable energy, and tourism. These investments include the state-of-the-art Busoga International Polytechnic College, a 1 Gigawatt solar power station by Masdar, and the upcoming construction of Kidepo International Airport and tourist hotels within Kidepo National Park.
The economic ties between the two nations are particularly impressive. Trade has skyrocketed, doubling from $1.4 billion in 2019 to over $3.8 billion in 2023. Ambassador Al Shamsi anticipates this figure to climb even higher in the coming years.
Furthermore, air travel between the UAE and Uganda has boomed, with over 23 weekly flights currently operating. This increased connectivity is expected to fuel tourism growth, particularly with the development of Kidepo National Park.
“The future of UAE-Uganda relations is very promising,” Ambassador Al Shamsi remarked. “We look forward to expanding our partnership in various fields, building a future of mutual benefit and friendship.”
This sentiment is echoed by the recent awarding of the Distinguished Order of the Crested Crane 1st Class Medal to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Maktoum Bin Juma Al Maktoum, a member of the Dubai Royal Family, for his significant contributions to Uganda’s development.
