Zambia-UAE economic and diplomatic relations

Diplomatic and economic relations between Zambia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have intensified through high-level engagements. Following an invitation from UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema conducted a working visit to the UAE to discuss the ‘Grow Zambia Agenda’.

Initial discussions focused on deepening economic ties in sectors such as mining, agriculture, energy, and infrastructure, amid observations from analysts regarding discrepancies in mirror-trade statistics between the two nations. This cooperation culminated in the signing of a $2.14 billion Comprehensive Partnership Agreement during the Zambia-UAE Business Forum in Abu Dhabi. The agreement is intended to boost trade and investment, supporting Zambia’s strategy to expand its economy through industrial development and value addition to its natural resources.

Recent developments at the Zambia-UAE Business Forum have seen the total value of signed agreements reach between US$2.14 billion and US$2.4 billion. These deals span multiple sectors, including logistics, technology, biotechnology, and port services. A notable project includes the development of a Medical City near Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka by DIHAD Sustainable Project Management.

Furthermore, discussions have progressed toward a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to establish a broader trade framework. President Hichilema noted that these investments align with the ‘Grow Zambia Agenda’ to accelerate job creation and private-sector investment, highlighting Zambia’s copper resources as a significant opportunity for international partners.