Make It In The Emirates Concludes With New Industrial Projects Valued At AED 11 Billion

The fourth edition of Make it in the Emirates concluded at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, showcasing the UAE's industrial prowess. Organised by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) and Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company Group, the event attracted over 122,000 visitors. This year's theme was "Advanced Industries. Accelerated," highlighting innovative displays from leading companies.

Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, emphasised the UAE's industrial transformation. He stated, "Thanks to our leadership’s vision, guidance, and support, the UAE’s industrial sector is experiencing a true transformation with a wide-reaching impact across various sectors, particularly trade and the economy." The event underscored the importance of industry in economic diversification and sustainable development.

During the event, more than 187 agreements were signed to localise supply chains and enhance technological capabilities. New offtake agreements worth AED 7.8 billion were also announced. MoIAT alone signed 24 MoUs with government and private entities to foster regulatory cooperation and create a competitive industrial environment.

This year’s edition unveiled new industrial projects valued at AED 11 billion. Over 720 institutions participated, presenting solutions to boost industrial growth and GDP contribution. The exhibition covered 12 strategic sectors including food, pharmaceuticals, metals, AI, clean energy, electronics, construction materials, aerospace, automotive, and defence industries.

The platform highlighted smart manufacturing and AI technologies while empowering Emirati youth. Dr. Al Jaber noted preparations for the fifth edition in May 2026 are underway to further advance UAE’s industry sector. He invited investors to leverage UAE's competitive advantages for business growth.

The "Industrialists" Career Fair aimed to expand private sector opportunities for Emiratis. Over three days, more than 3,000 young Emiratis attended interviews with over 95 companies offering job opportunities alongside training programs.

Investment Opportunities

Humaid Al Dhaheri from Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company Group remarked on the event's success in fostering partnerships and unlocking investment opportunities. The event provided an environment that accelerates innovation and contributes to national economic growth.

A landmark agreement with national banks will provide AED 40 billion in financing over five years for SMEs in strategic sectors like manufacturing and healthcare. Additionally, Emirates Development Bank launched a AED 1 billion fund supporting SMEs in key areas.

National In-Country Value Programme

The National ICV Program saw industrial procurement rise to AED 168 billion this year from AED143 billion previously. New procurement agreements worth AED 1.3 billion were signed under this program which now covers 4,800 locally manufacturable products.

ADNOC reaffirmed its commitment by planning to invest up to AED 200 billion into the national economy over five years. This includes purchasing locally manufacturable products valued at up to AED 90 billion by 2030.

Youth Engagement

Youth participation was significant throughout Make it in the Emirates' fourth edition. Young entrepreneurs presented ideas supporting industrial transformation through SME projects and AI-powered technologies.

The Made in the Arab World – UAE Edition initiative promoted youth-led startups across the Arab region as part of Youth Solutions by Arab Youth Center's seventh cycle.

Success Partners

A diverse range of partners supported this year’s edition including investment partners like IHC and Mubadala; sector partners such as EDGE; enablement partners like Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank; financing sponsor First Abu Dhabi Bank; among others contributing towards achieving strategic goals within industry sectors.

The fourth edition built on past achievements advancing goals under National Strategy for Industry & Advanced Technology strengthening UAE’s position globally enhancing competitiveness creating an enabling environment for investment technology adoption delivering record-breaking satisfaction levels well above global benchmarks among exhibitors visitors alike ensuring continued momentum towards future editions success stories emerging from collaborative efforts showcased during event proceedings paving way forward promising prospects ahead shaping tomorrow today together united vision shared purpose common goal driving progress forward collectively committed journey embarked upon together hand-in-hand forging path ahead bright future awaits us all united stronger together building better tomorrow today!

With inputs from WAM