Kampala, Uganda — The 4th Uganda-UAE Business Forum, taking place from October 27–29 at Speke Resort Munyonyo, aims to strengthen bilateral trade, attract foreign direct investment, and position Uganda as a leading destination for global investors.
Welcoming delegates from the United Arab Emirates, the Uganda Embassy in the UAE emphasized that this year’s forum builds upon the growing partnership between the two nations, which has seen bilateral trade surge to $2.85 billion by September 2025. The delegates were received by Second Secretary Asha Nabbanja on behalf of Ambassador Zaake Wanume Kibedi, together with the Protocol team from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The forum’s overarching goal is to foster collaboration across key sectors driving Uganda’s Vision 2040 — including tourism, energy, oil and gas, infrastructure, technology, real estate, and agro-industry. These areas are seen as critical engines for transforming Uganda into a competitive investment hub and regional trade center.
According to Ambassador Kibedi, the forum is designed to translate the Uganda-UAE partnership into tangible investment projects that create jobs, promote technology transfer, and expand market access for Ugandan products. “This platform is about building sustainable partnerships that go beyond trade figures — it’s about shared growth and innovation,” he said.
Participants will engage in sector-focused discussions, field visits, and one-on-one business meetings aimed at identifying new ventures and expanding existing ones. The event is expected to attract top government officials, investors, business executives, and innovators from both countries.
Uganda’s Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja is expected to deliver the keynote address at the opening ceremony, highlighting the government’s economic reform agenda and renewed commitment to creating a conducive environment for foreign investment.
With UAE investments in Uganda rising from $300 million in 2018 to $3.5 billion in 2024, the forum marks another milestone in deepening economic cooperation and unlocking new opportunities for mutual prosperity.
