Make it in the Emirates 2026 Kicks Off with Prominent Initiatives

Post by : Bianca Hayes

His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan graced the opening of the fifth edition of Make it in the Emirates at ADNEC in Abu Dhabi, which runs from May 4 to 7.

Hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology alongside key partners including ADNOC and ADNEC Group, this year's theme is “Advanced Industry. Emerging Stronger,” underscoring the UAE's dedication to innovation and industrial enhancement.

Throughout his visit, Sheikh Mansour explored various pavilions, inspecting cutting-edge technologies such as AI solutions and advanced manufacturing processes. He received updates on national initiatives intended to bolster the industrial sector, streamline supply chains, and elevate the UAE's position in global competitiveness.

Regarded as the largest industrial event in the region, it congregates government officials, investors, entrepreneurs, and experts globally to discuss fresh opportunities and collaborations.

Additionally, Sheikh Mansour engaged with Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef from Oman to discuss enhancing economic ties between both nations.

The UAE leadership, as noted by Sheikh Mansour, remains committed to nurturing industrial expansion by fostering innovation, attracting investment, and maintaining an adaptable business environment. The event plays a pivotal role in the country's economic diversification strategy and supports long-term initiatives like “We the UAE 2031” and “UAE Centennial 2071.”

In his address, Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber remarked on the remarkable growth within the industrial sector, noting a contribution reaching AED 200 billion, a substantial 70% rise since 2021. Furthermore, industrial exports have surged to AED 262 billion, with AED 92 billion attributed to advanced industries.

He announced an anticipated rise in industrial procurement opportunities to AED 180 billion over the coming ten years and plans to localize over 5,000 products in crucial sectors such as food, healthcare, and manufacturing.

ADNOC disclosed projects valued at over AED 200 billion for the upcoming two years, alongside the introduction of the “Local+” initiative aimed at bolstering UAE manufacturers and reinforcing local supply chains.

The event showcases over 1,245 companies spanning 12 sectors, with small and medium enterprises constituting 61% of participants, and over 120,000 visitors are expected to attend.

Additionally, the government announced a AED 1 billion National Industrial Resilience Fund to back key industries, bolster supply chains, and amplify local production.

Make it in the Emirates 2026 aspires to transform industrial blueprints into tangible business ventures by unveiling new projects, advocating advanced technologies such as robotics and AI, and generating employment opportunities for Emiratis.

As a platform, it continues to be vital in fostering startups, attracting investments, and cultivating a robust, sustainable industrial future for the UAE.

May 5, 2026 10:54 a.m. 173

UAE News Global News Abu Dhabi News Abu Dhabi