The UAE’s imperial push into Africa is accelerating under President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed al-Nahyan (MBZ), with heavy investments in ports, land, and resources shaping the continent’s geopolitical landscape.MBZ’s vision focuses on securing trade routes, critical minerals, and agricultural land to reduce oil dependence, leveraging entities like DP World and International Holding Company (IHC). The UAE’s $168bn+ investments since 2017 include stakes in African mining, farms, and infrastructure, though many projects face delays or cancellations.**

Geopolitical tensions arise as the UAE balances influence with fragile states. In Sudan, 1.5 tonnes of gold were stolen by paramilitary groups and allegedly smuggled to the UAE, highlighting risks of opaque deals. Emirati officials deny involvement, but analysts warn of destabilizing alliances, including ties to armed groups in the Horn of Africa. Critics argue the UAE’s “system of entanglements” undermines sovereignty, while proponents emphasize shared development goals.**

African policymakers express mixed reactions. Some welcome capital and infrastructure, while others, like Eritrea’s Yemane Gebremeskel, decry “control ambitions”. The UAE’s logistics dominance via DP World and Abu Dhabi Ports controls $100bn+ in Africa-Gulf trade, cementing its role as a key player. Experts like Eleonora Ardemagni frame ports as “vectors of influence,” while Mehari Taddele Maru stresses the need to assess Abu Dhabi’s growing leverage.**

The UAE’s Africa strategy blends economic pragmatism and imperial ambition, positioning itself as a post-oil power. However, concerns persist over resource exploitation and security partnerships, complicating its “mutual trust” narrative. The continent faces a pivotal choice: harnessing UAE investments or mitigating risks to sovereignty.