Dubai Chamber Backs Expansion of 'Al Sharqi Navigation' into Kenya and Uganda

Dubai's Logistics Giant Al Sharqi Navigation Expands into East Africa as UAE Deepens Continental Trade Ties

Al Sharqi Navigation, a Dubai-based logistics specialist, has successfully expanded operations into Kenya and Uganda with strategic support from Dubai Chamber of Commerce, marking another significant step in the UAE's broader push to establish Dubai as Africa's primary trade gateway. The expansion leverages the UAE-Kenya Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement and reflects growing confidence in East Africa's economic potential among Gulf investors.

Strategic Partnership Drives Market Entry

Dubai Chamber's Global Office in Kenya played a pivotal role in facilitating Al Sharqi Navigation's expansion, providing crucial market intelligence and regulatory guidance. The chamber's support included connecting the company with local partners and navigating complex administrative requirements—services that have become increasingly valuable as Dubai-based companies seek growth opportunities beyond traditional Gulf markets.

Salem Al Shamsi, Deputy Head of International Relations at Dubai Chambers, emphasized the organization's commitment to supporting local companies in accessing promising international markets. This approach aligns with Dubai's broader economic diversification strategy, which has seen the emirate position itself as a bridge between emerging markets and global trade networks.

East Africa: The New Frontier for Gulf Logistics

Al Sharqi Navigation's expansion into Kenya and Uganda represents more than just corporate growth—it signals a strategic shift toward Africa among UAE businesses. The company, operating since 1989, specializes in supply chain management, shipping, and cargo consolidation services that are particularly valuable in markets with developing infrastructure.

Kashif Rafiq, CEO of Al Sharqi Navigation and board member of Al Sharqi Holding, highlighted how the East African expansion aims to strengthen Dubai's position as a global trade hub. The timing is strategic, coinciding with the UAE-Kenya economic partnership that has reduced trade barriers and created new opportunities for cross-border commerce.

Beyond Traditional Services

The company's East African operations will extend beyond conventional logistics services to include customs clearance and investments in local trucking infrastructure. This comprehensive approach mirrors successful expansion strategies employed by logistics companies in other emerging markets, where controlling the entire supply chain proves crucial for long-term success.

Dubai's Systematic Approach to African Markets

Dubai Chamber's support for Al Sharqi Navigation exemplifies a broader, systematic approach to African market penetration. The chamber provides market data, facilitates business operations, connects companies with local partners, and organizes trade missions—creating a comprehensive support ecosystem for Dubai-based businesses.

This model has proven effective in other regions where Dubai has established strong trade relationships, including Southeast Asia and Latin America. By providing institutional support rather than leaving companies to navigate foreign markets independently, Dubai has created competitive advantages that benefit both individual businesses and the emirate's overall economic strategy.

Market Implications and Regional Competition

The expansion comes as regional competition for African trade routes intensifies. Saudi Arabia has launched similar initiatives through its Vision 2030 program, while Qatar and other Gulf states are also eyeing African opportunities. However, Dubai's established infrastructure, free zones, and business-friendly environment continue to provide advantages in attracting companies seeking African expansion platforms.

For investors and trade partners, Al Sharqi Navigation's expansion signals growing confidence in East African economic stability and growth prospects. Kenya and Uganda have shown consistent GDP growth and infrastructure development, making them attractive markets for logistics investments despite regional challenges.

Long-term Strategic Value

This expansion reflects broader trends in global trade patterns, where traditional North-South trade routes are being supplemented by South-South commerce. Dubai's positioning as a facilitator of Africa-Asia trade could prove increasingly valuable as African economies continue developing and seeking diverse trading partners beyond traditional European and American markets.

The success of companies like Al Sharqi Navigation in African markets will likely influence other Dubai-based logistics and trading companies to consider similar expansions, potentially creating a multiplier effect that strengthens Dubai's role as Africa's primary Gulf trade partner.