Zambia, UAE Sign Landmark Tourism Cooperation Deal
Zambia and the United Arab Emirates have entered a historic new chapter in diplomatic and economic ties following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on tourism cooperation. The agreement was sealed on the sidelines of the 26th Session of the UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The MoU was signed by Zambia’s Minister of Tourism, Honourable Rodney M. Sikumba, MP, and His Excellency Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism. It aims to deepen collaboration in tourism promotion, innovation, investment, and skills development.
Officials from both countries described the agreement as a strategic step towards strengthening tourism as a driver of economic growth, cultural exchange, and sustainable development.
During the ceremony, the two ministers discussed plans to attract tourists for longer stays, expand culinary tourism, and enhance travel facilitation through improved visa processes.
Both nations expressed interest in developing joint food festivals, chef exchange programmes, and culinary promotions to showcase their diverse cuisines and cultural identities.
The partnership comes at a time of rising Emirati investment in Zambia’s economy. The UAE has injected over US$1.1 billion into Mopani Copper Mines through International Resources Holdings (IRH), a subsidiary of the International Holding Company (IHC).
In addition, ASB Hospitality of Dubai acquired a majority stake in Pamodzi Hotel for US$18 million, signalling growing confidence in Zambia’s investment environment.
More Emirati companies are exploring opportunities in logistics, mining and renewable energy—further cementing economic cooperation between the two countries.
The tourism MoU aligns with Zambia’s Vision 2030 and the 8th National Development Plan (8NDP), both of which position tourism as a key pillar of economic diversification, employment creation and inclusive development.
With this agreement, Zambia aims to enhance its global competitiveness as a tourism destination, showcasing its natural beauty, cultural heritage and expanding hospitality sector.
