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South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to participate in Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) 2026.
The Presidency confirmed this on Monday, stating that he is expected to engage in a series of strategic discussions on climate action and sustainable development at the summit.
The visit follows an invitation from UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, with the summit convening world leaders, private-sector executives and civil society actors to advance cooperation on sustainability under the theme “Nexus of Next: All Systems Go.”
The Presidency indicated that Ramaphosa will meet Sheikh Mohammed for bilateral talks on Tuesday ahead of the official opening of the event.
He is also due to attend the Zayed Sustainability Prize Awards, which celebrate global innovations in areas such as energy, food security, water, health, climate action and education.
As part of his engagements, Ramaphosa is scheduled to deliver a keynote address at the Youth 4 Sustainability Forum, where he will focus on South Africa’s approach to a just energy transition, skills development and inclusive economic growth.
He will also participate in a panel of Heads of State examining global energy futures and join a high-level dialogue on infrastructure investment across the Global South.
The Presidency said the visit would be used to strengthen economic ties between South Africa and the UAE, noting that the Gulf state remains a key investor in sectors including logistics, transport and renewable energy.
Discussions with leading business figures are expected to explore new investment opportunities.
Ramaphosa is accompanied by International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, Trade and Industry Minister Parks Tau, and Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi.
