University of Nahrain / College of Political Science / Department of International Studies
Abstract
This research aims to shed light on the nature of contemporary UAE-Africa relations, using the Republic of Chad as a model that reflects the dimensions of these relations and their development trajectories in light of regional and international political and economic transformations. The importance of the research lies in its addressing a vital topic related to the role of the United Arab Emirates as a rising regional power seeking to expand its positive influence in the African continent. The research relied on a descriptive and analytical approach, tracing the historical, political, and economic trajectories of relations between the UAE and Chad. The research reached several conclusions, most notably that UAE-Chad relations represent an advanced model of bilateral cooperation between Arab and African countries, and that the UAE has been able to leverage its soft power and active diplomacy to strengthen its presence on the African continent. These relations also demonstrated the importance of the security dimension in Emirati foreign policy, particularly with regard to combating terrorism in the Sahel region, in addition to the developmental role played by the UAE in supporting infrastructure and services in Chad. Based on these findings, the research recommended the need to enhance Emirati investments in vital sectors in Chad, expand humanitarian and development support programs, and establish a permanent mechanism for bilateral cooperation to ensure the continuity of the partnership.