Dubai Chambers held high‑level meetings in South Africa.
The series of talks took place in Johannesburg and Cape Town, bringing together public and private sector stakeholders from both sides to deepen economic partnerships.
High‑level talks in Johannesburg and Cape Town
A delegation led by Salem Al Shamsi, Executive Vice President of International Relations at Dubai Chambers, met with the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI). The meeting also featured Advocate Mtho Xulu, President of SACCI, underscoring the importance of the bilateral dialogue.
In addition to SACCI, the delegation sat down with South Africa’s Department of Trade, Industry and Competition and the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry. These engagements aimed to chart pathways for cooperation across key sectors, reflecting the chambers’ shared commitment to expanding commercial links.
Focus on private‑sector cooperation and SME support
Discussions centred on strengthening private‑sector cooperation and supporting small‑ and medium‑sized enterprises. Both parties highlighted the need for South African firms to tap the emirate’s advantages as a global hub for business and trade.
Participants explored how South African companies could expand into Dubai, leveraging the city’s logistics, finance and tourism infrastructure. The dialogue also identified joint ventures and investment projects that could benefit SMEs on both sides.
Networking events and trade mission objectives
Dubai Chambers also joined a business networking event organised by Wesgro, the official tourism, trade and investment promotion agency for Cape Town and the Western Cape. A separate networking session was hosted by the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry, providing additional platforms for direct contact.
The meetings were held on the sidelines of a trade mission organised by Dubai Chamber of Commerce to South Africa. The mission forms part of the chamber’s broader effort to support Dubai‑based companies seeking growth in the South African market by identifying local partners and new avenues for expansion.
Frequently asked questions
What is Dubai Chambers?
Dubai Chambers is a Dubai‑based organization that facilitates trade and investment, helping Dubai companies expand into markets such as South Africa.
Why did Dubai Chambers visit South Africa?
The delegation travelled to South Africa to strengthen bilateral trade ties, explore growth opportunities and focus on private‑sector cooperation and SME support.
Who led the Dubai Chambers delegation to South Africa?
The delegation was led by Salem Al Shamsi, Executive Vice President of International Relations at Dubai Chambers.
What were the key sectors discussed during the meetings?
Discussions covered logistics, finance and tourism infrastructure as priority sectors for cooperation between Dubai and South Africa.
What was the purpose of the trade mission to South Africa?
The trade mission aimed to assist Dubai‑based firms in finding South African partners and new avenues for expansion, especially for SMEs.
Which cities in South Africa did Dubai Chambers visit?
Dubai Chambers held meetings in Johannesburg and Cape Town.





