UAE Ministers Highlight Industrial Sovereignty at Make it in the Emirates 2026

UAE’s Commitment to Industrial Sovereignty

The Make it in the Emirates 2026 event commenced on Monday, underscoring the UAE’s long-term investment in industrial sovereignty. Ministers and business leaders conveyed a unified message about the country’s enhanced economic resilience and national security, particularly in light of ongoing global disruptions.

In his opening address, Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, discussed the UAE’s recent exit from OPEC and OPEC+. He emphasized that the shift towards independence does not compromise the UAE’s global responsibilities. “The UAE has always acted as a responsible producer,” he stated, expressing hope that the nation can foster growth and contribute to global stability.

Al Mazrouei further clarified that the UAE intends to maintain bilateral cooperation with former OPEC members, but will do so on its own terms, reflecting a strategic approach to international relations.

Defense and Trade Resilience

The discussion shifted to defense capabilities, with Faisal Al Bannai, UAE Presidential Advisor and Chairman of EDGE Group, highlighting the critical role of UAE-made technology in enhancing national security. He noted that 85% of recent drone attacks linked to regional conflicts were neutralized using jammers developed in the UAE. Since the establishment of EDGE six years ago, foreign orders for UAE defense products have surged from 2% to 70%, with expectations for further growth in the sector.

In the realm of trade, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi reported that non-oil foreign trade surpassed $1 trillion in 2025, reflecting a 27% year-on-year increase. He remarked on the UAE’s robust connections with over 250 ports worldwide, asserting that the nation has defied expectations of economic downturn, achieving growth even in challenging global conditions.

Entrepreneurial Resilience and Family Business Insights

During a fireside chat, Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, UAE Minister of Sports and Chairman of the Emirates Growth Fund, characterized the UAE’s adaptability to various crises as a competitive advantage for investors. He remarked, “The agility and ability of the UAE to weather every type of shock – whether a national disaster, warfare, or even a global pandemic – is, in many ways, a blessing in disguise.”

A dedicated session on family businesses, which constitute approximately 60% of the national GDP, explored their strategies for navigating volatility. Emaar Properties’ founder, Mohamed Al Abbar, credited the UAE’s leadership for the nation’s resilience. Abdulaziz Al Ghurair, Chairman of Abdulla Al Ghurair Group, shared insights from his experience, advising patience and endurance during crises as essential for seizing opportunities.

A Vision for True Sovereignty

Badr Jafar, Special Envoy for Business and Philanthropy, concluded the day’s discussions by asserting that true sovereignty is reflected in the essentials of daily life. He emphasized the importance of local production capabilities, stating, “The medicine in your hospital. The protein on your child’s plate. The chip in your factory.” Jafar’s remarks underscored the UAE’s journey from dependence on oil to leveraging its resources for broader economic growth.

He challenged the prevailing narrative of fragile supply chains and weaponized trade, asserting the UAE’s ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the focus of the Make it in the Emirates 2026 event?

The event emphasizes the UAE’s commitment to industrial sovereignty and economic resilience.

How has the UAE’s defense sector evolved?

Foreign orders for UAE defense products have increased from 2% to 70% since the establishment of EDGE Group.

What are the key statistics regarding UAE’s trade performance?

Non-oil foreign trade exceeded $1 trillion in 2025, growing 27% year-on-year.

What advice did business leaders give regarding crisis management?

Leaders advised patience and endurance during crises, emphasizing the potential for opportunities.

What does true sovereignty mean according to Badr Jafar?

True sovereignty is measured by the essentials of daily life, including local production capabilities.