The recent diplomatic exchange between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Gabon marks a significant step in enhancing cooperation and investment opportunities between the two nations. UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, conveyed warm greetings from key UAE leaders to Gabon’s President Ali Bongo Ondimba, reflecting a shared commitment to mutual prosperity.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
During their meeting, both leaders discussed strategies to strengthen collaboration across various sectors of mutual interest. President Bongo expressed Gabon’s eagerness to deepen ties with the UAE, emphasizing his nation’s interest in fostering trade and investment. Al Zeyoudi pointed out that Gabon is emerging as a crucial trade partner for the UAE in Africa, supported by the recently established Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). This agreement serves as a roadmap to accelerate commerce and unlock investment potentials that benefit both nations.
Impressive Growth in Trade
The economic indicators between the UAE and Gabon are impressive. Non-oil trade reached $320.6 million in 2025, more than doubling since 2021. UAE non-oil exports to Gabon, valued at $61.1 million, saw a 27% increase year-on-year in 2025. By the first half of 2026, bilateral non-oil trade reached $141.7 million, with non-oil exports soaring to $62.7 million—a significant leap compared to the same period the previous year. Key export categories include petroleum distillates, industrial equipment, and consumer goods, underscoring the diverse economic interactions between the two countries.
Collaborative Initiatives and Opportunities
The delegation led by Al Zeyoudi included government officials, business leaders, and Emirati company representatives, all engaged in high-level discussions with Gabonese ministers across several sectors. These meetings spanned vital areas such as renewable energy, technology, mining, and food security, highlighting common goals and shared prospects for future collaborations. A series of business-to-business interactions during this visit emphasized the importance of forming private-sector partnerships to leverage opportunities in these critical sectors.
Focus on Renewable Energy and Infrastructure
An important highlight of the visit was Al Zeyoudi’s participation in the inauguration of the SOLEN solar power plant in Aimé Plaine, which underscores the UAE’s commitment to renewable energy initiatives in Gabon. The presence of Gabon’s Vice President and other government officials signaled the importance of this project in fostering energy security and sustainable development in the region. Additionally, the UAE delegation explored the Nok Private Investment Zone, further illustrating the UAE’s active role in enhancing Gabon’s infrastructure and energy sectors.
In summary, the UAE’s strategic focus on expanding economic partnerships in Africa is evident in its ongoing efforts to bolster relations with Gabon and other nations. The effective implementation of the CEPA aims to further reduce tariffs and eliminate trade barriers, creating a conducive environment for investments in agriculture, logistics, mining, and renewable energy. As the largest foreign direct investor in Africa, the UAE is committed to a sustainable trade and investment approach, enhancing its role as a key economic player on the continent.