Republic of Cameroon - UAE Relationships

The United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Cameroon have enjoyed longstanding and well-established bilateral relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries on February 24, 1975. Since then, relations have continued to witness steady growth across political, economic, and investment fields, supported by a series of high-level visits and meetings. Most recently, in March 2023, H.E. Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State, met with H.E. Dr. Joseph Dion Ngute, Prime Minister of the Republic of Cameroon, in Yaoundé, where both sides discussed ways to enhance bilateral relations and expand areas of cooperation in support of their shared interests.

Cooperation between the two countries has also advanced through the signing and ratification of several bilateral agreements, including the Air Services Agreement, the Agreement for the Avoidance of Double Taxation on Income, and the Agreement on Mutual Visa Exemption.

The United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Cameroon enjoy growing economic and trade relations, reflected in the steady expansion of bilateral trade and the increasing diversification of investment opportunities between the two countries. Non-oil trade increased from approximately USD 575 million in 2022 to around USD 1.5 billion in 2025, highlighting the continued growth of economic relations and the exploration of new avenues for trade and investment cooperation. The UAE is also among the largest foreign investors in Cameroon, with UAE investment inflows reaching approximately USD 26.6 million during the period (2017–2021), while cumulative UAE investments amounted to approximately USD 1.31 billion.

In line with efforts to strengthen the investment partnership between the two countries, the Government of Cameroon signed an agreement in January 2026 with UAE-based SGC Group, valued at USD 768 million, to implement two strategic projects: the Bertoua Industrial Wood City and the Nomaïos–Yaoundé Logistics Base. The agreement reflects the growing presence of UAE investments and their role in supporting economic development, industrial growth, and infrastructure advancement in Cameroon.

The United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Cameroon have maintained close diplomatic relations since 1975, spanning more than five decades. Culture, heritage, and community engagement represent important areas for strengthening ties between the two countries. Their efforts to promote cultural identity and national heritage, and encourage interaction between communities, are reflected in official visits and participation in cultural and international events hosted by the UAE.

In June 2019, the UAE’s non-resident Ambassador to Cameroon visited the National Museum in Yaoundé, where he met with the museum’s director and viewed its collection of historical artefacts and photographic exhibitions documenting Cameroon’s history and cultural heritage. In addition, events organized by the Consulate General of Cameroon in Dubai have provided opportunities to showcase Cameroonian culture through traditional music and dance performances, local cuisine, and activities involving members of the Cameroonian community and cultural associations. Attended by UAE officials and members of the diplomatic corps, these events help highlight Cameroon’s cultural diversity and promote interaction between the two cultures.

The longstanding relationship between the two countries provides a foundation for expanding cultural cooperation, particularly in heritage exhibitions, artistic performances, cultural exchanges, and tourism promotion. These initiatives can further mutual understanding and strengthen people-to-people ties between the Emirati and Cameroonian communities.