Dr. Al Jaber Unveils AED 180 Billion Industrial Opportunities at Make it in the Emirates Forum

UAE’s Industrial Strategy Focused on Resilience and Sovereignty

Dr. Sultan Al Jaber opened the fifth and largest edition of the Make it in the Emirates forum, emphasizing the UAE’s commitment to localizing over 5,000 products across critical sectors. The announcement of AED 180 billion in new industrial procurement opportunities is part of a national strategy aimed at enhancing economic, food, and healthcare security.

During his address, Dr. Al Jaber reflected on the challenges faced over the past three months, asserting that the UAE continues to transform these challenges into opportunities. He underscored the importance of resilience, sovereignty, and industrial capability as fundamental pillars of the UAE’s long-term economic strategy.

Dr. Al Jaber also acknowledged the contributions of the UAE Armed Forces, celebrating their 50th anniversary of unification, and commended frontline personnel and national institutions for their role in maintaining stability during recent crises.

Significant Growth in the Industrial Sector

The UAE’s industrial sector has demonstrated substantial growth, with its contribution reaching AED 200 billion—a 70 percent increase since 2021. Additionally, industrial exports surged to AED 262 billion, which includes AED 92 billion in advanced industrial exports. Dr. Al Jaber described these figures as evidence of the effectiveness of the UAE’s industrial economic model.

The National In-Country Value (ICV) Program was highlighted as a crucial driver of this progress, transforming spending into investments in the local economy. With the Cabinet’s support, the total value of industrial procurement opportunities is projected to grow from AED 168 billion to AED 180 billion over the next decade.

The forum also followed the Make it with ADNOC event, which unveiled procurement opportunities exceeding AED 200 billion over the next two years, reinforcing ADNOC’s role as a catalyst for industrial growth in the UAE.

Building Economic Security and Global Partnerships

Dr. Al Jaber stressed that economic security is not an import but a necessity that must be built and protected domestically. He warned that disruptions to international trade routes have wider implications for the global economy, asserting that the UAE’s position on freedom of navigation remains firm and non-negotiable.

Addressing the ongoing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, he reiterated the UAE’s commitment to safeguarding international waterways, emphasizing that any alteration to these principles poses a direct threat to global economic security.

He also articulated the UAE’s strategic decision to reposition itself within the global energy landscape, including its exit from OPEC and OPEC+. This move is aligned with the country’s long-term national interests and is intended to enhance its capacity for investment and value creation.

Technological Advancements and Future Vision

In line with the UAE government’s push for digital transformation, Dr. Al Jaber announced a significant initiative to integrate artificial intelligence into the industrial sector. He stated that AI would evolve beyond a mere tool to become an ‘industrial brain’ that redefines efficiency and productivity across factories.

He positioned the UAE as a global platform for industrial growth, offering a business environment characterized by credibility, flexible regulation, and advanced infrastructure. Dr. Al Jaber called on the private sector to prioritize domestic investment as a crucial component of economic sovereignty and stability.

He concluded with a strong message: ‘From the UAE, opportunities begin. From the UAE, industries launch to the world.’ This encapsulates the UAE’s ambition to drive industrial growth through innovation and strategic partnerships.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Make it in the Emirates forum?

It is the UAE’s flagship industrial platform aimed at localizing products and enhancing industrial capabilities.

How much is the UAE investing in industrial procurement opportunities?

The UAE announced AED 180 billion in new industrial procurement opportunities.

What role does AI play in the UAE’s industrial strategy?

AI will become an integral part of industrial operations, enhancing efficiency and decision-making.

What is the significance of the National In-Country Value Program?

It drives local investments by transforming spending into investments in the UAE’s economy.

How does the UAE view its position in global energy markets?

The UAE aims to maintain a trusted role in global energy markets while aligning its strategies with national interests.