UAE’s $6 billion tourism investment plan to create 70,000 jobs in Africa
Nairobi confirmed as next host of Future Hospitality Summit Africa 2026
DUBAI – The United Arab Emirates has announced a $6 billion Tourism Investment Plan to accelerate growth across Africa’s travel and hospitality industries.
The initiative, expected to create 70,000 new jobs, was unveiled at the UAE Africa Tourism Investment Summit 2025 in Dubai.
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the summit formed part of the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) World 2025. Organised by the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism in partnership with The Bench, the event convened government leaders, investors, and industry executives to explore opportunities across infrastructure, aviation, and digital transformation.
UAE-Africa partnerships
A key feature of the summit was a ministerial roundtable chaired by Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism, with participation from ministers representing more than 20 African nations. The meeting concluded with a joint statement to deepen collaboration and outline shared goals for sustainable tourism development.
“Today, the UAE and Africa stand at a pivotal moment in developing a resilient and sustainable tourism sector,” said Al Marri. “This milestone is marked by the launch of a new investment mapping featuring diverse tourism projects in aviation, logistics, and infrastructure, with an estimated total value of approximately $6 billion and the potential to generate 70,000 job opportunities across Africa.”
He added that Africa’s wealth of coastal resorts, pristine beaches, and cultural landmarks offers enormous potential for UAE investors seeking long-term tourism partnerships. “We are committed to turning this platform into tangible and sustainable tourism projects that will help shape Africa’s economic development,” he said.
Shared development goals
The joint ministerial statement emphasised several key priorities, including improving tourism infrastructure, expanding air connectivity, and promoting green and inclusive growth through private-sector engagement and SME support. Participants also discussed the importance of digitalisation and innovation in strengthening Africa’s competitiveness in global tourism.
The UAE’s growing investment footprint in Africa reflects a strategic vision to build cross-regional partnerships that drive shared prosperity through tourism, trade, and sustainable growth.
Spotlight on FHS Africa 2026
With momentum from the Dubai summit, attention now turns to Future Hospitality Summit Africa (FHS Africa) – the continent’s flagship event for tourism and hospitality investment. Scheduled for 31 March to 1 April 2026 in Nairobi, Kenya, the summit will unite senior policymakers, investors, and business leaders to advance deal-making and shape the next phase of Africa’s tourism expansion.
“FHS Africa will play a pivotal role in driving hospitality investment across the continent,” said Roy Bannister, Head of Strategic Partnerships for Africa at The Bench. “As we build on the $6 billion Tourism Investment Plan, our focus will be on turning this framework into real projects and lasting partnerships.”
The Future Hospitality Summit Africa has already played a central role in catalysing billions of dollars in investment and strengthening regional collaboration, unlocking opportunities across one of the world’s most dynamic tourism markets.