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The Emirates News Agency reported that the meeting in Libreville focused on ways to strengthen bilateral relations with particular attention to economic cooperation. President Oligui Nguema conveyed his government’s commitment to expanding ties with the UAE across multiple sectors. Al Zeyoudi delivered greetings from UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and outlined opportunities for closer collaboration. The discussions built on existing momentum in relations between the two nations.
According to the Emirates News Agency the two sides examined prospects in energy mining agriculture and infrastructure development during the February 16 2026 talks. The visit came shortly after the formal signing of the UAE-Gabon Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement which aims to reduce tariffs and remove trade barriers. Officials explored how the pact could open new avenues for private sector involvement. A delegation of UAE industry representatives accompanied the minister to identify specific collaboration areas.
Economy Middle East figures show that bilateral non-oil trade between the UAE and Gabon reached $320.7 million in 2025 more than double the level recorded in 2021. United Nations COMTRADE data placed UAE imports from Gabon at $49.61 million in 2024 with the bulk consisting of pearls precious stones metals and wood products. The UAE’s non-oil trade with African countries overall totalled $112 billion in 2024 reflecting a 34 percent increase from the previous year according to the same reporting. The UAE has invested more than $110 billion across Africa since 2019.
Al Zeyoudi told the Emirates News Agency that Gabon launched a $5.5 billion accelerated transformation plan in 2021 to support economic diversification and stimulate non-oil sectors. The initiative focuses on targeted investments in mining forestry agriculture infrastructure digitalisation and education. Gabon’s gross domestic product reached approximately $20.6 billion in 2024 with growth expected at around 3 percent in 2025 the minister added. He described Gabon as a promising economic partner for the UAE supported by stable growth prospects.
The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement is designed to enhance investment flows expand market access for services and establish frameworks for digital trade according to reports from Arabian Business. Accompanying the pact were memoranda of understanding covering defence a joint business council and women’s empowerment initiatives. These steps align with the UAE’s broader approach to fostering economic links across West Africa. Gabon’s main non-oil exports to the UAE include manganese rubber and timber.
Regional analyses indicate that the agreement will promote collaboration among small and medium-sized enterprises while improving the overall business environment. The UAE maintains its position as a leading source of new foreign direct investment into Africa. Discussions during the visit also touched on sectors such as renewable energy logistics and digital commerce. Both parties agreed to continue high-level engagements to realise the full potential of their partnership.
