Manufacturing Sector To Propel UAE’s Next Economic Growth Phase, Says Alabbar At SIF-WIC 2025

Mohamed Alabbar, the Founder of Emaar Properties and Noon.com, emphasised the manufacturing sector's significance in the UAE's economic future. Speaking at the eighth Sharjah Investment Forum–World Investment Conference (SIF–WIC 2025), he noted that manufacturing currently contributes 15 percent to the UAE’s GDP, surpassing real estate's 12 percent. He encouraged budding entrepreneurs to explore this sector for sustainable growth.

Alabbar shared his personal journey, highlighting how overcoming poverty motivated him initially. However, he believes true success is about giving back with integrity and discipline. "Payback is not about donations. It’s about good manners, honesty, taking care of your family and your country. I do everything for my country," he said.

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The discussion titled "Vision, Venture, Value: Shaping the Region Through Leadership" was moderated by entrepreneur Kris Fade. The event was attended by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). Alabbar urged young entrepreneurs to start small in manufacturing, suggesting they could begin with a simple 3D printer at home.

Alabbar highlighted his ventures' impact on urban development, noting each project contributes around 5 percent to a city’s GDP. This contribution aids job creation and supports small businesses. He stressed that quality and integrity are crucial for long-term business success. "If my product is good, it will market itself," he remarked.

Discussing Noon.com, Alabbar explained his entry into e-commerce was driven by a desire for Arabs to own their digital future. "We are 400 million Arabs who use technology five hours a day, but we have nothing to do with it. That made me angry, so I decided to do something about it," he explained.

The forum was organised by the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah) alongside the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA). It attracted over 10,000 participants from 142 countries under the theme "Transforming Our World: Investing for a Resilient and Sustainable Future."

The Role of Leadership Discipline

Alabbar concluded by highlighting discipline's role in effective leadership. He stated that while some perceive him as harsh, he considers himself "brutally disciplined" in areas like learning and honesty. "People say I’m brutal. I’m not brutal. I’m brutally disciplined — in learning, honesty, hard work, and quality. Stick with good people. Good people make us better human beings."

With inputs from WAM