Uganda has inked a significant deal with a business association from the United Arab Emirates to construct a new international airport, marking the East African nation’s third such facility. This development was announced by President Yoweri Museveni's office on Friday.

The agreement, which sees the UAE's economic presence in Uganda expanding beyond its interests in renewable energy and oil and gas industries, will have the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry spearheading the airport's construction. The new airport will be strategically located just outside Kidepo National Park in the northeast, near Uganda's border with Kenya.

While the statement from Museveni's office did not disclose the project's cost, it did confirm that construction is set to commence in August. Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, chairman of the Sharjah business body, provided this timeline.

The upcoming airport aims to boost tourism by attracting more visitors to the 1,442-square-kilometer Kidepo National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife, including lions, giraffes, and buffaloes.

President Museveni highlighted the deal as an indicator of strengthening relations with Gulf partners and a new avenue for cooperation in investment and trade. He shared his optimism and support for the project in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The new airport is expected to enhance Uganda’s tourism sector and foster greater economic collaboration between Uganda and the UAE.