The United Arab Emirates has pledged $6 billion to boost Africa’s tourism and hospitality sectors, a move expected to create 70,000 jobs and strengthen Africa’s position as a global travel powerhouse. Announced at the UAE Africa Tourism Investment Summit, the plan focuses on infrastructure, aviation, logistics, and green tourism. The initiative aims to enhance connectivity, promote sustainability, and support SMEs across 20 African nations. By fostering partnerships between African governments and private investors, the UAE seeks to build a resilient, inclusive, and innovative tourism ecosystem.

Tourism infrastructure boom: Major investments in airports, roads, and hospitality facilities across key African destinations. Historically, there have been calls for accelerated infrastructure development across the continent to foster tourism growth, as poor infrastructure is holding the industry back. Poor infrastructure has a negative ripple effect for tourism because substandard roads and airports create unpleasant experiences for tourists.

Job creation and skills development: Expansion of employment opportunities in tourism, aviation, and tech-related sectors. Although the tourism industry already creates a significant amount of jobs in Africa, this investment will help the industry recover the jobs lost in the aftermath of the global pandemic and strained economic conditions.

Regional integration: Improved air routes and transport connectivity strengthen intra-African travel. This regional integration is vital as African countries prioritise visa liberalisation to ease intra-African travel.

Investor confidence boost: Increased UAE involvement could attract more Middle Eastern and global capital into African tourism. This investment could also appeal to Asian investors and industry stakeholders, helping multiple African countries attract more tourists and investments from these lucrative and growing markets.

Tourism-linked startups will thrive: Opportunities in travel tech, local experiences, and eco-tourism are set to grow. Founders in this space may find it easier to attract investments to start and grow their startups.

Partnerships matter: Entrepreneurs should explore collaborations with government and foreign investors to access funding and networks.

Infrastructure gaps = business opportunities: Logistics, mobility, and digital platforms supporting travel are in high demand.

Think continental scale: Entrepreneurs should prepare to operate across borders as Africa’s tourism ecosystem becomes more integrated.