By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will undertake an official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 12-13 January 2026, at the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, to participate in the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW).
This year’s ADSW, running from 11–15 January, is themed “Nexus of Next: All Systems Go” and is expected to bring together heads of state, business leaders and civil‑society representatives to discuss large‑scale solutions to global sustainability challenges.
Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said Ramaphosa is expected to participate in the summit’s high‑level segment and several leadership dialogues.
“During his visit, the President will also engage with leading captains of the industry and business leaders to promote investment and strengthen collaboration,” Magwenya said.
The UAE is one of South Africa’s most significant partners in the Middle East, with strong ties in transport, logistics and renewable energy.
Bilateral trade between the two countries reached US$5.22 billion in 2024.
South Africa exported goods worth US$2.68 billion, a 5.53 percent increase from the previous year while imports from the UAE fell to US$2.96 billion, a 25.8 percent decline.
Despite this shift, South Africa recorded a trade deficit of US$284 million.
Magwenya said the visit aims to build on this economic momentum and explore new opportunities for collaboration in emerging sectors linked to sustainability and green industrialisation.