Message of the Consul General
My wife and I arrived in Dubai in February 2010 where I have
taken up the position as Consul General.
Allow me to introduce myself: My name is Fanus Schoeman and I am
proud to represent South Africa as the Consul General for Dubai and
the Northern Emirates.
I am married to Judith, we have 3 children and 5
grandchildren.
In history there are certain milestones during the development
of countries that can be described as defining events.
20 years ago, the nine days in the
history of South Africa, from 2nd February 1990, when the then
President F.W. de Klerk announced the unbanning of the ANC till
11th February 1990, upon the release of Nelson Mandela, have become
a defining moment for our country.
These nine days opened the way to the new South Africa. During
the past 20 years, South Africa has successfully moved out of
international isolation. In 1990, South Africa had missions in 24
countries. Today, South Africa has 124 missions in every corner of
the world. These changes in South Africa created opportunities to
explore trade and investment in the United Arab Emirates. These
changes allowed the people of South Africa to connect with the
generous spirit of the Emirati people and the expatriate community
in general.
The major objectives of the Consulate General in cooperation
with the Embassy in Abu Dhabi, are to ensure that we utilize the
opportunities, be it trade, investment, tourism, education or
culture, to further enhance the solid relations between the United
Arab Emirates and South Africa.
My experience thus far has been very positive regarding
cooperation between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the Mission and the South
African Business Council, South African Airways and patriotic South
Africans making a huge impact in the United Arab Emirates
My wife and I intend to do our best to enhance relations between
our country and the UAE, the South African Business Council and the
business community.
Warm regards,
Fanus Schoeman