Expanding from Africa to the UAE: a guide for founders from Kenya, Nigeria, Egypt, South Africa and beyond
The UAE is one of the largest investors in Africa and a hub for African trade. How African founders and companies set up and grow in the UAE.
The UAE is one of the largest investors in Africa and a hub for African trade. How African founders and companies set up and grow in the UAE.
Why founders from Africa choose the UAE
- Direct flights to most African capitals
- Access to investors, trade finance and logistics
- A base for selling between Africa, the GCC and Asia
Trade links
The UAE has CEPAs with several African countries. The UAE-Kenya CEPA was signed in January 2025. Check the status of any agreement with your country.
Setting up: the route most founders take
- A free zone company for trading, services and tech
- A mainland licence for selling directly to UAE customers
- Plan banking early, with clear documents on where funds come from
Going to market in the UAE
- Position for all UAE buyers, not only diaspora communities
- LinkedIn and events for B2B
- WhatsApp, Instagram and TikTok for consumers
How Eedlee helps
We help founders and companies from Africa test demand, position for UAE buyers and launch: a UAE-ready website and product in English and Arabic, search and AI visibility, and lead generation aimed at the customers who fit.
Rules, fees and processes change. Confirm the details with the relevant authority or a licensed adviser before you commit.
Read next
- How to start a business in the UAE: the complete guide
- Mainland, free zone or offshore: which structure fits?
- UAE go-to-market playbook