Cape Town – President Cyril Ramaphosa will attend the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) in the United Arab Emirates on 12–13 January 2026, at the invitation of UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The annual summit, running from 11–15 January under the theme “Nexus of Next: All Systems Go,” focuses on innovation, sustainability, and cross-sector collaboration to tackle global environmental and economic challenges.
The Presidency said Ramaphosa will participate in the Heads of State segment and high-level sessions, engaging with industry leaders to promote investment and strengthen bilateral cooperation in sustainability and economic development.
🇿🇦His Excellency President @CyrilRamaphosa departs from OR Tambo International Airport this evening for an official visit to the United Arab Emirates at the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE to participate in the Abu Dhabi… pic.twitter.com/3cLYpaCJXp
— The Presidency 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) January 11, 2026
He will be accompanied by ministers including Ronald Lamola, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, Parks Tau, and Mmamoloko Kubayi.
President @CyrilRamaphosa supported by Minister in the Presidency Ms @Khu_Ntshavheni has arrived in Dubai to participate in Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026, at the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan #GovZAUpdates #gcisforyou pic.twitter.com/hZISsB4TjW
— GoZA_tv (@GoZa_TV_) January 12, 2026
South Africa maintains strong bilateral ties with the UAE, a key investor in sectors such as transport, logistics, and renewable energy.
Bilateral trade reached US$5.22 billion in 2024, with South Africa’s exports rising 5.53% to US$2.68 billion, while imports fell 25.8% to US$2.96 billion.
“The strong trade relations underscore the UAE’s role as a strategic economic partner for South Africa in the Middle East and highlight ongoing opportunities to deepen trade and investment cooperation,” the Presidency said.
🇿🇦His Excellency President @CyrilRamaphosa arriving at the Dubai International Airport in the United Arab Emirates and is received by Minister of Economy and Tourism, His Excellency Abdulla Bin Touq Marri.
The President is invited to participate in the Abu Dhabi Sustainability… pic.twitter.com/Vys8n2AO2C
— The Presidency 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) January 12, 2026
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
