Economic players from Africa and the Middle East are calling for a shift in perceptions and deeper collaboration to unlock the vast potential between the two regions. The call comes as both regions prepare to converge in Dubai for the Elite Jamboree on December 4, an event designed to foster stronger economic ties.

Boni Nyaga, CEO of Mawaitha Africa, highlighted key challenges hindering the partnership, pointing to persistent misconceptions on both sides.

“We’re confronting two primary narratives: the African perception of Dubai as an overly restrictive environment, and the UAE’s outdated view of Africa as underdeveloped,” Nyaga said.

These narratives, he noted, have created barriers to unlocking opportunities, even as both regions hold complementary economic strengths. Africa boasts 60% of the world’s uncultivated arable land, while the UAE imports 80% of its food. This disparity, Nyaga emphasized, could be transformed into a monumental opportunity for agricultural partnerships that address food security and economic growth.

Experts argue that Africa and the Middle East are uniquely positioned to benefit from mutual collaboration. Beyond agriculture, sectors such as finance, technology, and infrastructure offer untapped potential for growth.

William Stenhouse, founder of the UAE-Africa Networking Group, highlighted the scale of opportunities available through platforms like his organization, which connects over 16,000 professionals, investors, political figures, and government agencies.

“Numbers tell a story, and 16,000 represents more than just contacts; these are 16,000 potential pathways for innovation, investment, and mutual economic growth,” Stenhouse said.

The UAE’s access to global investment platforms, combined with Africa’s need for capital to develop key industries, sets the stage for transformative ventures.

The Elite's Jamboree is strategically scheduled just before the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi, designed to capture the attention of global investors and business leaders. The event will focus on African youth empowerment initiatives. The evening promises fine dining, entertainment, and meaningful networking opportunities.

The organizers, Estilo De Diva, are a Dubai-based luxury event management company run by Nigerian entrepreneur Agbara Ada. She says:

"Most of the life-changing connections I have made in my life started as casual conversations with a colleague or client at work or in a social setting. In a world where everything has been digitalized, we must consciously participate in empowerment programs to put ourselves on the map while preparing ourselves individually to grow."

With Africa’s industrialization efforts gaining momentum and the UAE’s position as a global hub for trade and innovation, the Elite Jamboree promises to shape the future of economic collaboration between the two regions.