Empowering industries a priority, say President, VP

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan visited the fifth edition of Make it in the Emirates 2026, held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).

During the tour, Sheikh Mohamed reviewed the latest innovations, products, and initiatives aimed at enhancing the competitiveness and readiness of national industries across a range of vital sectors, as well as the use of technology to advance local production.

Sheikh Mohamed also received briefings from exhibitors on key initiatives and projects announced during the event.

Stating that the industrial sector remains a key pillar supporting and diversifying the national economy, Sheikh Mohamed affirmed that strengthening its role is a strategic priority for the UAE as part of its vision to empower national industries, foster an enabling environment for innovation and investment in future industries, and create opportunities for Emirati talent.

Sheikh Mohamed also commended the high level of participation in the event, which reflects the progress of the UAE’s industrial sector and its competitive strengths.

Following the tour, Sheikh Mohamed met His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.

Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid also visited on Wednesday the 5th edition of the 'Make it in The Emirates' exhibition.

Sheikh Mohammed said that the industrial sector is a key strategic pillar supporting the country's drive to diversify its national economy. H.H. praised the sustained efforts to achieve the goals of the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology, and underscored the important role of effective public and private sector partnerships in strengthening the UAE's industrial base.

Sheikh Mohammed commended the Make it in the Emirates initiative for bringing together local and international stakeholders and fostering collaboration to advance future focused solutions, particularly in advanced technology, artificial intelligence, and life sciences.

He also highlighted the role of national institutions and Emirati talent in strengthening the UAE's industrial competitiveness, noting that the UAE does not wait for the future but shapes it through the ideas and efforts of its people and ambitious institutions, and that investing in people and empowering national talent with advanced skills and technologies is the path to a more sustainable and distinguished future.

Meanwhile, Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment, said that between 2015 and 2024, the UAE attracted approximately 251 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects in the industrial sector, with total capital commitments amounting to nearly $33 billion.

These projects contributed to the creation of more than 38,000 jobs, reflecting the growing confidence of investors in the UAE’s industrial capabilities.

In statements on the sidelines of the “Make it in the Emirates 2026” event, Alsuwaidi noted that the manufacturing sector has become the fifth-largest recipient of foreign direct investment, accounting for 7% of the country’s total FDI stock. He added that the sector is among the most attractive for foreign investments and represents a key pillar in achieving the objectives of the “National Investment Strategy 2031.”

WAM