45 South African companies flock to one country in three months
A growing economic partnership has led to 45 South African companies joining the Dubai Chamber of Commerce in the first three months of 2026, bringing the total to 873.
This surge in corporate participation follows a significant 265% increase in bilateral non-oil trade over the last decade, which has now exceeded R129.2 billion.
“The rapid growth in trade between Dubai and South Africa reflects the depth of our growing economic partnership and underlines the strong connections between our markets,” said Dubai Chambers Executive Vice President of International Relations Salem Al Shamsi.
Twenty-four Dubai-based companies arrived in Johannesburg for a series of business-to-business (B2B) meetings to explore local partnerships.
The visiting UAE companies represent various sectors, including construction, electronics, engineering, environmental solutions, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), food and beverages, healthcare, information and communications technology (ICT), investments, manufacturing, and retail.
This trade mission was organised as part of a specific Dubai Chamber initiative that focuses on expanding Dubai businesses into promising global markets.
Al Shamsi said that the mission helps Dubai companies explore the South African market, which serves as a strategic gateway to the broader African continent.
“This trade mission provides an important platform to open new channels for dialogue, strengthen business connections, and enable companies operating in Dubai to explore the promising opportunities offered by the South African market.”
The Dubai–South Africa Business Forum received support from key institutional players, including the UAE Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa’s Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI), and the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI).
The forum was attended by senior officials, business leaders, and representatives from local companies interested in exploring partnership and cooperation opportunities between the two markets.
“In line with our commitment to building on this positive momentum, we are continuing to expand joint cooperation and create high-quality opportunities that support business growth and enhance trade and investment flows,” said Al Shamsi.
The Dubai Chamber of Commerce
The Dubai Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit public organisation that serves as the main link between the private business sector and the Dubai government.
It serves as the backbone of Dubai’s commercial ecosystem, aiming to protect businesses’ interests and improve the ease of doing business in the emirate.
In 2021, the organisation underwent restructuring as part of a broader entity known as Dubai Chambers.
It was divided into three distinct chambers to better address specific economic goals:
- Dubai Chamber of Commerce: This is the traditional chamber that represents, supports, and protects the local business community. Notably, this is the chamber that 45 South African companies joined in the first quarter of 2026.
- Dubai International Chamber: This chamber focuses on attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) to Dubai and assists Dubai-based companies in their global expansion efforts.
- Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy: This chamber is dedicated to establishing Dubai as a major global technological hub by attracting startups, digital talent, and technology investments.
The Dubai Chamber of Commerce was established in 1965 by a decree from the late Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum.
Over the past six decades, it has grown significantly, starting with just 450 members and now representing over 150,000 member companies across various economic sectors.
When a company registers as a member, bringing the total active South African membership to 873, the Chamber provides several essential services.
The Chamber reviews legislation and advocates with the Dubai government on behalf of businesses to ensure that laws remain favourable to commerce.
It issues vital legal documents required for international trade, such as Certificates of Origin and ATA Carnets, which allow for the temporary duty-free import of goods.
The Chamber features mediation and commercial arbitration centres that can help businesses resolve legal and financial disputes without lengthy court processes.
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