Dubai, Uganda Ink Deal to Boost Business Collaboration

Dubai Chambers has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Uganda Chamber of Commerce and Industry to enhance cooperation between the business communities of Uganda and Dubai. The agreement was finalised during the "Doing Business with Uganda" business forum in Kampala, organised by Dubai International Chamber, one of Dubai Chambers' three branches.

The MoU commits both chambers to fostering collaboration between companies in Dubai and Uganda. This includes organising trade missions, conferences, and business events, as well as sharing expertise and exploring bilateral investment opportunities. The agreement also provides a platform for consulting on business policies to unlock mutual benefits.

The forum marked the first leg of Dubai Chambers' trade mission to Uganda and Tanzania and was supported by the UAE Embassy in Kampala, Uganda's Embassy in the UAE, the Uganda Investment Authority, and the Private Sector Foundation Uganda.

Prominent speakers at the event included Olive Kigongo, President of the Uganda National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Robert Mukiza, Director General of the Uganda Investment Authority. The forum attracted senior officials, business leaders, and representatives of 29 Dubai-based companies across diverse sectors.

Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, remarked, “We are committed to strengthening Dubai’s trade and investment partnerships with countries worldwide, including Uganda. Supporting companies from Dubai to grow and expand globally across diverse sectors remains a priority. This contributes to enhancing Dubai’s foreign trade and consolidating its position as a leading global business hub.”

Non-oil trade between Uganda and Dubai reached US$1.2 billion in 2023, according to Dubai Customs data. As of September 2024, 148 Ugandan businesses were registered as active members of Dubai Chamber of Commerce, with 60 joining in the first nine months of the year.

During the forum, Dubai Chambers presented Dubai's economic advantages and opportunities for Ugandan businesses and investors. Uganda's favourable investment environment was also highlighted, with key opportunities identified in tourism, agriculture, mining, ICT, electronics, and infrastructure projects like roads, railways, and water systems.

Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja expressed optimism about the partnership, emphasising the government’s commitment to attracting investors. “The agreement between Dubai Chambers and the Uganda Chamber of Commerce and Industry aims to promote and protect investments. I believe this forum will effectively foster dialogue between the Ugandan and UAE governments and create new business partnerships for mutual benefit.”

The Dubai delegation featured businesses from various sectors, including construction, engineering, food and beverages, healthcare, agritech, oil and gas, and IT. The forum underscored the growing partnership between Uganda and Dubai, showcasing opportunities for economic growth and collaboration.