Dubai Forum Enhances Economic Ties Between the UAE and African Continent
The UAE as a Link Between African Capitals and Global Markets: Dubai as Africa’s Gateway
Ambassador Amadou Dyan, head of the Forum of Economic Operators for Advancing the African Economy (FOGECA), stated that the FOGECA comprises 22 African nations and over 800 companies, with support from more than 10 African heads of state who endorse most of its initiatives.
In an exclusive statement, he highlighted that the International Dubai Forum for Advancing the African Economy represents a pivotal moment for FOGECA, with all 22 African member nations eager to establish comprehensive economic partnerships with the UAE.
Additionally, he noted that His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, is an inspiring leader for many African officials. The African populace regards the UAE as a crucial link between African capitals and global markets, positioning Dubai as the vibrant heart of the Middle East and a gateway for Africa to the world.
Ambassador Dyan affirmed that the International Forum for Advancing the African Economy, held in Dubai, significantly strengthened ties not only between the UAE and Senegal but also paved the way for robust economic relationships between the UAE and several African countries.
He further noted that the forum effectively supported Senegalese nationals residing in the UAE and unveiled investment opportunities for UAE businessmen interested in Senegal, fostering mutual benefits for both brotherly nations.
Expanding Partnerships
He mentioned that the report from the forum addressed various significant topics, which were discussed during an important meeting last week with Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade. The Minister played a crucial role in ensuring the forum’s success.
The strategic vision of FOGECA aims to facilitate and enhance economic relations between the UAE and African countries.
The organization seeks to function as an institutional and operational bridge, enabling Emirati entrepreneurs and investors to access African authorities and strategic projects within a formal, secure, and organized framework, while fostering a dynamic relationship beneficial to all African stakeholders.
He added that during the forum, there was tangible support through effective communication between FOGECA and investment partners in Dubai, especially through the exchange of official contacts, and efforts are underway to ensure effective operational follow-up among all parties to transform the strategic vision into structural partnerships and concrete projects.
Regarding his stay in Dubai, he confirmed he will be present in Abu Dhabi for the visit of Senegalese President Bassirou Diomai Fay to the UAE in the coming days, a visit that illustrates the strong relations between the UAE and Senegal. He emphasized the UAE’s commitment to strengthening its relations with Senegal and the African continent as a whole, while promoting sustainable economic growth and opening new avenues for the continent.
He noted that Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi had recently led a significant delegation of Emirati officials and business leaders to Senegal, where they met with President Bassirou Diomai Fay, Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, and several ministers and senior officials. During this visit, 13 memorandums of understanding were signed across various sectors, including energy, logistics, mining, industrial development, digital technologies, construction, and healthcare.
The figures reveal that non-oil trade between the UAE and Senegal reached $933 million in the first nine months of 2025, reflecting an annual growth rate exceeding 21%, which underscores the strong relationship between the two countries.
He remarked, “While in Dubai, I celebrated the 20th anniversary of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s ascension to the leadership of Dubai, witnessing the immense joy from both Emiratis and Senegalese on this auspicious occasion. This is a moment to extend my congratulations to him.
Furthermore, he stated, “The world is witnessing the remarkable progress the UAE has made since His Highness assumed office. International organizations consistently issue commendatory reports regarding the achievements in Dubai and the wider UAE over the past 20 years. Since his leadership began, the pace of accomplishments has accelerated on both local and federal fronts, enhancing international competitiveness and securing the UAE and Dubai’s global standings across various fields.”
“Through my role as honorary consul for the Republic of Angola in Senegal, and through meetings with more than 10 African presidents along with numerous leaders and business owners across the continent, I recognize that Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is held in high regard by African leaders, many of whom wish to meet him and learn from his insights and vision. They express gratitude for his contributions to the continent. We wish for him to achieve all his aspirations, not only in Dubai and the UAE but globally,” he added.
Upcoming Session
Regarding the next session of the International Forum for Advancing the African Economy (FOGECA), he mentioned that the host location has not yet been determined. A number of countries have submitted requests to host the next forum, which will take place in six months. Senegal, Cameroon, and others have expressed interest, and a decision will be made soon.