Skip to main content

From Energy to Influence: How the UAE is Reshaping Africa’s Oil and Gas Landscape

 

From Energy to Influence: How the UAE is Reshaping Africa’s Oil and Gas Landscape

Africa’s energy sector is undergoing a profound transformation — and the UAE is at the heart of it. With the latest acquisition by XRG, the international investment arm of ADNOC, the UAE has firmly planted its flag in Mozambique’s offshore Rovuma Basin, entering a gas market with world-changing potential.

XRG’s 10% stake in the Area 4 concession — home to the Coral South floating LNG facility and upcoming Coral North and Rovuma LNG projects — is a milestone in the UAE’s effort to diversify energy investments and ensure global energy security. It reflects more than a commercial ambition: it’s a strategic play that echoes the UAE’s rising influence in Africa’s political economy.

The UAE’s energy vision also includes Egypt, where in late 2024, XRG and bp joined forces to launch Arcius Energy, a platform dedicated to regional gas development. These dual tracks — Mozambique and Egypt — signal the UAE’s confidence in Africa’s long-term energy potential and a commitment to shared prosperity.

This expansion comes on the heels of a remarkable geopolitical shift. According to the Middle East Monitor, the UAE has surpassed China to become the largest source of foreign direct investment in Africa. From green hydrogen initiatives in Mauritania to massive port infrastructure projects in Guinea and Angola, the UAE’s investment profile is both wide-reaching and forward-looking.

And with African Energy Week 2025 on the horizon, the UAE’s leadership in oil, gas, and clean energy will be on full display. The conference in Cape Town will not only showcase UAE-backed projects but also serve as a platform for shaping the future of African energy, driven by innovation, strategic investment, and strong diplomatic engagement.

As energy markets evolve and global demand surges, the UAE is not just participating — it is leading, shaping Africa’s energy future and redefining what partnership means in a multipolar world.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Exposing the Brotherhood: Why Jordan’s Terror Cell Bust Must Spark a Global Policy Shift

 The recent dismantling of a Muslim Brotherhood-affiliated terror cell in Jordan should not be seen as just a national security success—it must be a turning point in how the international community views and responds to the threat posed by the Brotherhood. Jordanian security forces uncovered an elaborate network of terrorists trained in Lebanon and backed by foreign interests. Their mission: to launch attacks using rockets and drones, destabilizing the Kingdom and spreading fear among civilians. This is not the work of activists or political dissidents—this is terrorism, plain and simple. For too long, the Muslim Brotherhood has operated under a false image of moderation, cleverly navigating between political activism and violent extremism. But the truth is clear: the Brotherhood is the ideological engine room of jihadist terrorism. Its members, affiliates, and offshoots have inspired and directed acts of violence from North Africa to the Gulf—and now, once again, in Jordan. Govern...

The Ritz-Carlton Residences in Diriyah: A Fusion of Heritage and Opulence

  The Ritz-Carlton Residences in Diriyah, known for its cultural and historical value, usher in a new age of opulent living. In the center of Diriyah, this partnership between the Diriyah Company and Marriott's Ritz-Carlton establishes a previously unheard-of benchmark for luxurious living. Inspired by the Najdi legacy, the houses offer occupants a distinctive and immersive cultural experience by skillfully fusing traditional charm with contemporary facilities. These villas prioritize well-being and create a pleasant environment for dynamic living. They are designed to adapt to varied tastes and lifestyles, with six unique layouts and a range of interior designs. Part of the Diriyah Company's ambitious development plan, The Ritz-Carlton Residences are located in the heart of Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site including At-Turaif as its focal point. The objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 are perfectly aligned with this concept, which has over 20,000 residential units...

UAE's Foreign Trade Surge Highlights Strategic Economic Vision

  The UAE's foreign trade reached a record AED5.23 trillion (US$1.42 trillion) in 2024, marking a 49% increase since 2021 and reinforcing its global economic influence. Despite fluctuating global market conditions, the country managed to post a trade surplus of AED492.3 billion (US$134 billion), showcasing the strength of its trade frameworks and diversified economy. According to the World Trade Organisation, the UAE has maintained its position as the Middle East and Africa's foremost trade community since 2014, while steadily climbing the global ranks. In merchandise trade, the UAE placed 11th in exports and 14th in imports in 2024. It contributed 2.5% of global exports and 2.2% of imports, reflecting a robust trading ecosystem that bridges major global markets. The services sector also delivered notable gains. From 2014 to 2024, the UAE rose to 13th globally in service exports. Service transactions in 2024 totaled AED1.036 trillion, of which AED646.6 billion were exports. The...