Zimbabwe and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are on track to elevate their bilateral trade volumes to an impressive US$6 billion by the close of 2026. This projection follows a significant increase from nearly US$5 billion recorded in 2025, underscoring the success of President Mnangagwa’s engagement and re-engagement policy. The positive growth has been observed across critical sectors including trade, mining, and agriculture.
The announcement was made after the outgoing UAE Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Jassim Mohammed Al Qasimi, paid a farewell courtesy call on President Mnangagwa at State House in Harare. President Mnangagwa commended Ambassador Al Qasimi for his dedicated service, which has substantially contributed to the mutual growth of both nations over his nearly seven-year tenure.
Ambassador Al Qasimi, reflecting on his time in Harare, noted the continued economic growth in Zimbabwe and expressed optimism for future cooperation, particularly in various projects. The UAE remains the primary destination for Zimbabwe’s exports, accounting for 50 percent of the country’s shipments by value in the first quarter of 2026.
Key Players Involved
- President Emmerson Mnangagwa: Zimbabwean President, credited for the engagement and re-engagement policy fostering global economic partnerships.
- Jassim Mohammed Al Qasimi: Outgoing UAE Ambassador to Zimbabwe, instrumental in strengthening bilateral and economic relations.
Event Timeline
- May 23, 2026: Announcement made regarding the projected trade volumes and farewell courtesy call.
- 2025: Bilateral trade between Zimbabwe and UAE reached nearly US$5 billion.
- 2026 (Projected): Trade volumes are expected to reach US$6 billion.
