A major boost to UAE–Africa industrial ties emerged in March 2026 as Arise Integrated Industrial Platforms, a Dubai-based infrastructure platform, announced plans to help mobilize over $3 billion in investments for Kenya over the next five years. The initiative aims to support the development of key industrial and export processing zones, strengthening Kenya’s position as a manufacturing hub in East Africa.

The planned investments will be directed toward three major industrial and export parks—two along Kenya’s coast and one in the Rift Valley region of Naivasha—along with support for the Rivatex textiles firm. These projects are expected to significantly boost Kenya’s efforts to attract foreign direct investment, create jobs, and enhance local manufacturing capabilities across sectors such as textiles, automotive components, and industrial production.

According to Executive Director Nikhil Gandhi, AriseIIP will contribute around 30–40% of the total investment, while the remaining funding will come from development finance institutions and other lenders. In addition, an $800 million financing facility is being set up in partnership with KCB Group and African Export-Import Bank to support companies establishing operations within these zones.

The initiative has already attracted interest from companies across more than 14 countries, including China, India, and Lebanon. With global supply chains shifting due to geopolitical factors, Kenya is increasingly seen as a strategic destination for industries such as electric vehicles, minerals, and textiles—marking a significant step forward in strengthening industrial cooperation between the UAE and East Africa.