The United Arab Emirates and the Republic of South Africa enjoy a strong and steadily evolving partnership underpinned by close political, economic, and investment ties. Bilateral relations have continued to deepen through regular high-level exchanges and constructive cooperation across a wide range of sectors. The two countries also work closely in regional and multilateral forums, including BRICS, the New Development Bank, the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), the Non-Aligned Movement, the Group of 77, and the United Nations, providing a platform for coordinating positions on issues of mutual interest and supporting each other's candidacies for international leadership roles. The UAE's observer status at the African Union, together with South Africa's membership in the organization, further creates promising opportunities for cooperation in the fields of peace, security, and sustainable development across the African continent.
Diplomatic relations between the two countries were established in 1994 following the inauguration of the late President Nelson Mandela. South Africa subsequently opened its Embassy in Abu Dhabi in January 1995 and its Consulate General in Dubai in 1999. Reflecting the strength of bilateral relations, UAE nationals holding ordinary passports have enjoyed visa-free travel to South Africa since August 2019. In June 2026, the United Arab Emirates further facilitated travel by expanding its visa-on-arrival policy to include South African ordinary passport holders who hold valid residence permits issued by the United States, European Union member states, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia, New Zealand, or Canada.
The strength of the bilateral relationship is further reflected in the exchange of high-level visits. Notable milestones include the participation of H.E. President Cyril Ramaphosa in COP28 in 2023 and the visit of Deputy President Paul Mashatile to the UAE in April 2024. During South Africa's G20 Presidency, the United Arab Emirates was invited to participate in the Group's activities throughout 2025, during which the UAE announced the launch of the UAE–Africa Artificial Intelligence Development Initiative, valued at USD 1 billion. This positive momentum culminated in the official visit of H.E. President Cyril Ramaphosa to the United Arab Emirates in January 2026 to participate in Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, reaffirming both countries' shared commitment to advancing their strategic partnership.
