Ramaphosa Touches Down in UAE for Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week

President Cyril Ramaphosa arrived in the United Arab Emirates on Monday to participate in the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) 2026, a high-profile summit bringing together global leaders, innovators, and investors to shape the future of sustainable development.

Invited personally by UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ramaphosa is joined by key Cabinet members, including Ministers Ronald Lamola, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, Parks Tau, and Mmamoloko Kubayi, highlighting the strategic importance of South Africa’s engagement with the UAE.

A Global Stage for Sustainability

ADSW 2026, themed “Nexus of Next: All Systems Go”, serves as a hub for ambitious dialogues on climate action, renewable energy, and sustainable infrastructure. President Ramaphosa’s schedule is packed with engagements, including:

• The opening ceremony and Zayed Sustainability Prize Awards, recognising innovators in Health, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action, and Global High Schools.

• A Heads of State panel on “A Vision for Global Energy,” where Ramaphosa will discuss strategies for energy security and clean energy solutions.

• A high-level session on Global South Infrastructure, focusing on accelerating investment in bankable, scalable infrastructure projects across emerging economies.

Strengthening South Africa-UAE Ties

South Africa and the UAE share a history of strong bilateral relations, characterised by high-level visits, economic cooperation, and investment partnerships. According to presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya, the UAE is a significant investor in South Africa, with involvement in transport, logistics, and renewable energy sectors.

Trade figures reflect the growing economic relationship. In 2025, South Africa exported nearly $2.7 billion (R44.3 billion) worth of goods to the UAE, while imports from the UAE totalled $2.96 billion (R48.6 billion), resulting in a trade deficit of $284 million (R4.7 billion).

During his visit, Ramaphosa is also expected to engage with leading industry captains and business leaders, promoting South African investment opportunities and strengthening trade ties with one of the Gulf region’s most dynamic economies.

Local Impact and Commentary

Economic experts note that the president’s participation in ADSW offers both diplomatic and domestic dividends. By positioning South Africa as a partner in sustainable development, Ramaphosa hopes to attract investment that can support local infrastructure projects and renewable energy initiatives.

On social media, South Africans expressed optimism about the visit. One Twitter user commented:

“It’s great to see South Africa at the centre of global sustainability discussions. Let’s hope this brings real jobs and investment back home!”

Others highlighted the strategic angle, pointing out the UAE’s potential role in supporting green energy projects and infrastructure financing.

As South Africa strengthens its presence on the international sustainability stage, Ramaphosa’s engagements in Abu Dhabi signal a dual focus on global collaboration and local economic growth, reaffirming the country’s commitment to both climate action and strategic international partnerships.

{Source: The Citizen}

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