Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's Tour Highlights Industrial Momentum
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, toured the bustling halls of the Make it in the Emirates 2026 exhibition at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) on May 6, 2026. Accompanied by key figures including Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Minister of Defence, and Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the visit underscored the UAE's unwavering commitment to industrial self-reliance and innovation. The tour focused on pavilions from major players like ADNOC, EDGE Group, and the International Holding Company (IHC), where Sheikh Mohammed reviewed cutting-edge developments in manufacturing, technology, and supply chain resilience.
At the ADNOC pavilion, Sheikh Mohammed examined initiatives aimed at localizing critical products and enhancing the National In-Country Value (ICV) program. EDGE Group showcased advancements in defence manufacturing, aligning with Operation 300bn goals to boost sovereign capabilities. IHC highlighted diversified industrial projects, from construction materials to advanced tech integration. These displays not only demonstrated tangible progress but also symbolized the public-private partnerships driving the UAE's economic diversification.
Record-Breaking Scale of Make it in the Emirates 2026
The fifth edition of Make it in the Emirates 2026, hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MOIAT) and organized by ADNEC Group, marks a historic milestone. Spanning May 4 to 7, 2026, the event occupies 88,000 square meters—a 30 percent increase from last year—and features 1,245 exhibitors, up 73 percent. This surge reflects robust participation from all seven emirates, with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) making up 61 percent of exhibitors.
Expected to draw over 122,500 visitors, including international investors and industry leaders, the platform facilitates procurement deals potentially exceeding AED 180 billion over the next decade. Over 5,000 products are on display, emphasizing localization efforts for vital goods in food security, healthcare, and energy. The theme 'Advanced Industry. Emerging Stronger' captures the UAE's post-challenge resilience, positioning the nation as a global hub for Industry 4.0.
UAE President's Engagement Reinforces Strategic Priorities
Complementing Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid's visit, UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan also toured the exhibition, reviewing innovations across vital sectors. He emphasized the industrial sector's role as a pillar of economic diversification, praising high participation levels and competitive strengths. The President's focus on technology-driven local production aligns with visions like We the UAE 2031 and the UAE Centennial 2071.
Accompanied by senior officials, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed met with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid post-tour, discussing sustained development. Such high-level endorsements signal strong governmental backing for industrial ambitions, inspiring exhibitors and visitors alike.
Diverse Sectors Powering UAE's Industrial Ecosystem
The exhibition spans 12 priority sectors, each contributing to comprehensive growth:
- Food, Beverage & Agricultural Technology
- Aerospace, Automobile & Defence
- Pharma & Medical Technology
- Ship, Maritime & Boat Manufacturing
- Metals & Fabrications
- Handicrafts
- Advanced Manufacturing, AI & Industry 4.0
- Chemicals, Plastics & Sustainable Materials
- Machinery & Equipment
- Electrical Equipment & Electronics
- Construction & Materials
- Future Energy & Industrial Decarbonisation
These areas align with Operation 300bn, targeting a doubling of industrial GDP contribution to AED 300 billion by 2031 from AED 133 billion. Highlights include the Advanced Manufacturing hub featuring AI, robotics, drones, EVs, and cybersecurity.
Spotlight on Key Innovations from Major Exhibitors
ADNOC unveiled its Industrial Resilience Program, building on ICV successes with initiatives like Local+ to connect contractors with 70 UAE manufacturers. EDGE Group demonstrated defence tech exports, enhancing in-country value. IHC's pavilion showcased integrated solutions across healthcare ecosystems, real-time monitoring, and predictive analytics.
Other standouts: Ducab's high-voltage fibre optic cables for grid efficiency; TA'ZIZ agreements worth $28.5 billion for chemicals expansion; solar-powered water harvesting tech addressing scarcity. These exemplify how UAE firms are pioneering sustainable, tech-infused manufacturing. For more on ADNOC's projects, visit ADNOC's announcement.
New Initiatives to Localize 5,000 Products
A flagship 'Purchase Opportunities' drive aims to localize 5,000 products, bolstered by the AED 1 billion National Industrial Resilience Fund for strategic reserves. The ICV Program turns mandatory for federal entities and government-owned firms (25%+ stake), with new retail policies prioritizing local goods.
Emirates Development Bank (EDB) supports with AED 30 billion financing for SMEs, targeting 13,500 firms and 25,000 jobs. These steps enhance supply chain resilience amid global disruptions. Details on ICV evolution available at MOIAT's ICV page.
Impressive Economic Impact and Growth Metrics
UAE's industrial sector now contributes AED 200 billion—70% growth since 2021—with exports at AED 262 billion (AED 92 billion advanced tech). Non-oil trade rose 27% in 2025. ICV spending hit AED 67 billion end-2023, with 19,000 Emiratis employed in certified firms (40% YoY increase).
Previous MIITE editions secured AED 168 billion in offtake agreements. This year's momentum supports export growth to 75 markets, zero corporate tax incentives, and logistics advantages. FDI in industry reached US$33 billion via 251 projects recently.
Conferences, Awards, and Knowledge Exchange
Over 300 speakers, including MOIAT's Dr. Sultan Al Jaber and EDGE's Faisal Al Bannai, lead 50+ panels on AI, decarbonisation, and exports. The MIITE Awards honor excellence: Tech Frontier, Quality & Compliance, National Growth, leadership categories, and Traditional Craft.
Hubs like Startup, Intelligence, Quality, and House of Industry foster B2B deals and Emirati talent development. The UAE industrial heritage narrative ties tradition to modern prowess.
Photo by Vaibhav Gupta on Unsplash
Future Outlook: UAE as Global Industrial Leader
Make it in the Emirates 2026 cements the UAE's trajectory toward industrial sovereignty. With policies nurturing SMEs, tech adoption, and exports, the nation eyes tech exports nearing AED 100 billion by 2026. Challenges like supply volatility are met with resilience funds and partnerships.
Stakeholders foresee sustained growth, job creation, and global competitiveness. As Sheikh Mohammed noted, 'The UAE shapes the future through ambitious institutions and empowered talent.' Explore the official platform at miite.ae for ongoing updates.
Stakeholder Perspectives and Broader Implications
Exhibitors like Schneider Electric praise MOIAT's Industry 4.0 push, while Emirates Global Aluminium highlights ICV's economic boost (1.4% GDP). International collab, as with Oman's zones, expands horizons.
For manufacturers, the event offers actionable insights: step-by-step localization via ICV certification, financing access, and export strategies. SMEs gain visibility, contracts, and skills training, propelling UAE's diversified economy forward.
