The fifth edition of Make It In The Emirates has officially begun in Abu Dhabi, drawing strong participation from both local and international players as the UAE doubles down on its industrial ambitions.
The event, being held from May 4 to 7 at the ADNEC Center Abu Dhabi, was inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court.
Organized by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology in collaboration with key national entities, including ADNOC and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, the event is being held under the theme “Advanced Industry. Emerging Stronger.”
As detailed in the official briefing, the platform has grown into the region’s largest industrial gathering, bringing together government leaders, investors, manufacturers, entrepreneurs, and financial institutions under one roof.
Strong Participation Across Sectors
This year’s edition has attracted more than 1,245 exhibiting companies across 12 industrial sectors, reflecting the scale and diversity of the UAE’s industrial ecosystem. Small and medium enterprises account for 61 percent of participants, underscoring the country’s push to empower startups and local manufacturers.
The event is expected to draw over 120,000 visitors, including global investors and industry leaders looking to explore opportunities within the UAE’s rapidly expanding industrial sector.
Driving Industrial Growth And Localization
During his tour of the exhibition, Sheikh Mansour reviewed several advanced technologies and innovations, including artificial intelligence solutions and next-generation manufacturing capabilities.
The event places a strong emphasis on localization, with procurement opportunities rising significantly and a focus on domestic production of around 5,000 products across strategic sectors. These include manufacturing, food security, pharmaceuticals, advanced technology, and construction.
Officials noted that such initiatives align with long-term national strategies, including efforts to strengthen supply chains, boost self-sufficiency, and enhance industrial resilience.
Economic Impact And Policy Push
Speaking at the opening, Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, outlined the sector’s rapid growth. The UAE’s industrial contribution has reached AED 200 billion, marking a 70 percent increase since 2021, while exports have climbed to AED 262 billion.
He also pointed to a sharp rise in industrial procurement opportunities, expected to reach AED 180 billion over the next decade, signaling sustained momentum in the sector.
The event also comes alongside a series of policy measures aimed at strengthening industrial competitiveness, including the launch of a AED 1 billion National Industrial Resilience Fund and the expansion of the National In-Country Value Program.
A Platform For Investment And Partnerships
Make It In The Emirates continues to serve as a key platform for fostering partnerships, attracting investment, and accelerating the adoption of advanced technologies such as robotics, autonomous systems, and AI.
It also provides a gateway for international investors to engage with the UAE’s industrial ecosystem, while offering Emirati talent access to new employment and skill development opportunities aligned with future industries.
With strong participation and a clear policy push backing it, this year’s edition signals the UAE’s intent to position itself as a leading global hub for advanced industry and manufacturing.
With inputs from WAM
