The UAE is celebrating its 53rd National Day, also known as Eid Al Etihad, on December 2, which gives residents an occasion to reflect on the country’s journey of resilience, determination and success. The country was at its inception a desert nation relying on pearl diving and oil. Today, UAE is known as a global agrarian tourist trades hub and innovation capital and has become a ‘success story’ that can be applied to Africa, most especially Uganda.
The UAE: A Beacon of Stability and Progress
Eid Al Etihad commemorates the historic moment in 1971 when the seven emirates came together to form a unified nation (UAE) under the leadership of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The founding father of the UAE stressed the significance of the development of human resources and infrastructure, as well as diversification. Dubai, which is the most famous emirate of the seven, has turned out to be a global tourist center, drawing millions of tourists each year. In 2023 , Dubai received more than 22 million international tourists, thereby boosting the UAE’s tourism industry, which contributed 12.1% to its GDP.
The towering Burj Khalifa known as the highest skyscraper on the planet, alongside the opulent Burj Al Arab renowned as a top-tier luxury hotel , stand as emblems of the UAE’s drive for top-notch performance and cutting-edge advancements.
Lessons for Africa
The UAE’s long-term planning, infrastructure investment, and business-friendly environment provide useful insights for African countries like Uganda. Africa can tap into its huge potential by focusing on smart investments. Uganda welcomed 1.5 million tourists in 2022, 10% of the United Arab Emirates. Africa could see this number grow by taking cues from the UAE. The continent should also aim to expand its manufacturing industry, not just process raw materials and minerals. The UAE has shifted from oil and gas to technology, tourism, and trade. African nations should follow suit by coming up with fresh ideas in new fields to make their economies more resilient.
The Impact of Forward-Thinking Leaders
Sheikh Zayed, who started the UAE, stressed unity, education, and new ideas creating a plan for long-term growth. African leaders can learn from his forward-thinking approach by working together across borders through groups like the EAC, ECOWAS, and SADC, and making rules that bring in global investors and tourists.
To Wrap Up
As the UAE marks 53 years of unity and progress, its story shows what’s possible with the right plan and action. Africa has everything it needs to do the same—young people, lots of natural resources, and a rich culture. By using the UAE’s methods, Africa will become a place of chance and growth leading the world in tourism new ideas, and progress.
