Angola and UAE: Building a Dynamic Partnership for Africa’s Prosperity
Júlio Maiato, Ambassador of the Republic of Angola to the UAE, has highlighted the thriving relationship between Angola and the UAE, emphasizing their unified vision for a prosperous and integrated Africa. Speaking on the growing partnership between the two nations, Maiato notes that both countries possess the capabilities and determination to translate this shared vision into practical achievements with positive continent-wide impacts.
According to Júlio Maiato, “The UAE and Angola share a unified vision for a prosperous and integrated Africa and possess the capabilities and determination to translate this vision into practical achievements that will positively impact the entire continent.” He praised how relations between the UAE and Angola have evolved into one of the most dynamic and strategically significant partnerships along the Africa–Gulf corridor, based on mutual respect, a shared vision, and a commitment to sustainable development.
A pivotal moment in bilateral ties was the State Visit of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to Angola in August 2025, following several visits by President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço of Angola to the UAE. Maiato notes, “This partnership has already produced tangible progress across priority sectors, aligned with the long-term development goals of both nations.“
The ambassador also underlined Angola’s keenness to strengthen media cooperation with the UAE, referring to the agreement on news exchange between the Angola Press Agency (ANGOP) and Emirates News Agency (WAM), enabling the daily, free exchange of news, photographs, and videos to enhance mutual understanding and public awareness. This collaboration is set to expand into television, radio, and print.
Angola’s Journey: 50 Years of Independence
Reflecting on Angola’s half-century journey, Júlio Maiato stressed two main milestones: the conquest of National Independence on November 11, 1975, and the signing of the Luena Peace Agreement in 2002. These events, alongside political and economic developments, have shaped the nation’s path to today. He remarked, “Strategically, the guiding motto of the First Republic — ‘The People’s Republic of Angola considers Agriculture as the foundation and Industry as the decisive factor in its development’ — became central under President António Agostinho Neto, Founder of the Angolan Nation and National Hero.“
Since independence, Angola has transitioned from a centralized economy to a market economy, fostering private sector growth and international engagement. Years of armed conflict did restrict global relations, but Angola’s diplomatic efforts have since placed it at the heart of organizations like the United Nations, African Union, SADC, and the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS).
Overcoming Challenges and Driving Growth
After enduring a 27-year civil war, the government’s implementation of the National Reconstruction Programme rebuilt vital infrastructure—roads, ports, hospitals, schools, airports, and stadiums. Economic and structural reforms have restored Angola’s credibility with international institutions. As Maiato notes, “The unwavering determination of the Angolan people, who showed extraordinary courage and tenacity in achieving Independence… also served as the foundation for the Peace achieved in 2002, paving the way for the country’s development.“
Significant recent investments under President Lourenço’s leadership include the Dr António Agostinho Neto International Airport, inaugurated in 2023, and the Lobito Corridor, enhancing regional trade and connectivity.
Angola on the African and International Stage
Fifty years post-independence, Angola has established itself as a pillar of stability, dialogue, and cooperation in Southern Africa, instrumental in regional conflict resolution and promoting stability. Its current presidency of the African Union underscores its continental leadership.
Economically, Angola is diversifying, reducing oil dependence and encouraging growth in agriculture, mining, and commerce. According to the World Bank, Angola’s economy grew 4.4% in 2024, driven by confidence and reforms, particularly in non-oil sectors.
Angola also continues to emerge as a reliable partner on the global stage, building a network of strategic alliances that position it as a bridge between Africa, the Arab world, and global markets.
Angola–UAE Relations: A Robust Strategic Partnership
The relations between Angola and the UAE have experienced remarkable growth, evolving into a strategic partnership. As Maiato explains, “Under the leadership of President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, Angola has pursued a proactive foreign policy focused on economic diversification, modernisation, and the attraction of strategic partnerships; the UAE has emerged as a key and trusted partner.“
Currently, 44 bilateral agreements span fields from artificial intelligence to customs cooperation, expected to generate thousands of jobs and bolster economic ties.
Future Cooperation: Energy, Investment, and Infrastructure
Maiato highlights that the Angola-UAE partnership exemplifies South–South cooperation, with the UAE’s Vision 2030 aligning with Angola’s economic diversification efforts. The energy sector is especially promising, with Masdar expanding renewable energy investments in Angola, capitalizing on its solar potential.
Further, UAE commitment of USD 6.5 billion in investments across sectors like agriculture and logistics is transforming Angola’s infrastructure. Partnerships with Abu Dhabi Ports Group and DP World are enhancing maritime infrastructure, trade, and job creation.
Enhancing Media and Cultural Exchange
Media cooperation is a cornerstone of diplomatic relations, with both embassies and press agencies emphasizing effective communication and outreach. The recent Agreement on News Exchange formalizes regular content exchange, and planned expansions into diverse media formats will amplify mutual understanding.
Cultural exchange is flourishing, supported by official agreements. The Angolan government remains committed to safeguarding and promoting its cultural identity, with global interest in Angolan music, dance (like Kizomba), and the arts. The memorandum between the two Ministries of Culture encourages participation in events and academic exchanges, aiming to deepen understanding and cooperation.
Education and sports cooperation are advancing as well, with agreements on academic collaboration, training, and sports exchanges between both nations.
Looking Forward: A Catalyst for Continental Development
Maiato expresses optimism for the future, stating, “In my view, the future of relations between Angola and the United Arab Emirates is extremely promising, founded on mutual respect, a shared vision, and a long-term commitment to sustainable development.” The expectation is that the partnership will evolve into a comprehensive strategic alliance covering economic, technological, security, and diplomatic fields.
Crucially, the UAE’s supportive role in Africa goes beyond investment; it brings practical expertise in economic diversification, building sustainable infrastructure, and catalyzing continental integration. Maiato asserts, “The partnership between the two nations goes beyond bilateral benefits, contributing to the broader development goals of the African continent, particularly to the vision of the African Union’s Agenda 2063 for ‘inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development.’“
In summary, Angola and the UAE share a vision of a prosperous, interconnected, and sustainable Africa—a vision they are well-positioned to realize together for the benefit of the entire continent.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
