Dubai: Dubai International Chamber, part of the Dubai Chambers, has unveiled its new representative office in Cape Town, marking a significant step in strengthening business ties between Dubai and South Africa. This strategic move is designed to enhance economic relations and foster bilateral trade and investments between the two regions.
According to Emirates News Agency, the office was inaugurated during a ceremony at Dubai Chambers' headquarters, attended by Alan Winde, Premier of the Western Cape Province. Winde, leading a delegation of senior officials, engaged in discussions aimed at formalizing relations and exploring business opportunities between Dubai Chambers and the Western Cape Government. The focus of these discussions centered on boosting trade, tourism, and investments.
Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, emphasized South Africa's strategic importance for Dubai. He highlighted the potential for expanding trade and investments, stating that the new office reflects a commitment to deepening economic cooperation. Lootah expressed optimism about fostering partnerships that would contribute to mutual growth and prosperity, and he encouraged South African companies to leverage Dubai as a gateway to global markets.
Alan Winde welcomed the establishment of the new office, underscoring the importance of strengthening international partnerships to boost the economy and create job opportunities. He expressed confidence in a long and fruitful partnership, aimed at unlocking the economic potential of the Western Cape Province.
This development comes amid expanding trade relations between Dubai and South Africa. Non-oil bilateral trade between the markets reached approximately AED29 billion last year, with a 20% annual growth. Interest from South African companies in doing business in Dubai is increasing, as evidenced by the 23.8% rise in active members of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce from South Africa, totaling 775 by the end of 2024. An additional 51 new companies joined the chamber in the first quarter of 2025 alone, indicating sustained momentum.