The fourth edition of Make it in the Emirates, the UAE’s leading industrial event, concluded today at ADNEC. Held over four days, the event attracted more than 122,000 visitors and participants, setting a new record for attendance. This year’s exhibition covered 68,000 square meters, making it the largest and most comprehensive edition yet.
Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, praised the UAE leadership’s vision for transforming the industrial sector. He emphasized the event’s success reflects broad support from national leaders who toured the exhibition. Dr. Al Jaber said the industrial sector plays a critical role in economic diversification and sustainable national development goals.
New Industrial Era Powered by Innovation
According to Dr. Al Jaber, the world faces a new industrial era driven by ideas, technology, and adaptability. He highlighted industry’s role in boosting economic value, creating jobs, and building resilient infrastructure. He added that investing in manufacturing stimulates growth across related sectors, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global industrial hub.
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The event featured participation from over 720 local and international companies showcasing breakthrough industrial and technological innovations. More than 187 agreements and memoranda of understanding were signed, focusing on supply chain localization, technology transfer, and Emirati employment. New industrial projects valued at AED 11 billion ($2.99 billion) were announced during the platform.
Diverse Themes Highlight Industry Development
Each of the four days focused on specific themes to showcase the sector’s breadth. Day one emphasized the UAE’s manufacturing vision, with 34 panel sessions involving ministers and industry leaders. Day two focused on national value creation and Emirati talent, featuring 26 sessions with pioneers and experts. Day three centered on smart manufacturing, Industry 4.0, and artificial intelligence through over 35 sessions. The final day highlighted youth leadership, exports, growth, and emerging industries.
The Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology signed a landmark agreement with national banks to provide over AED 40 billion in financing for SMEs and innovative projects. Emirates Development Bank also launched a AED 1 billion Emirates Growth Fund targeting strategic sectors like manufacturing and healthcare. These financing solutions aim to accelerate industrial competitiveness and innovation.
Empowering Emirati Talent and Youth Engagement
The Industrialists Career Fair attracted over 3,000 young Emiratis, facilitating more than 10,000 interviews with private sector companies. The event also honored winners of the third Make it in the Emirates Awards, recognizing achievements across factories of the future, leadership, and traditional crafts. A new pavilion showcased 216 Emirati artisans presenting traditional crafts, expanding their global market access.
The National In-Country Value (ICV) Program reached AED 168 billion in industrial procurement, up from AED 143 billion last year. MoIAT signed new MoUs with companies including Emaar and Silal to expand participation to 35 entities. The program channels government and major company spending into the local economy to support sustainable industrial growth.
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Startups and Global Exchange Expand Horizons
For the first time, the Global Startup Exchange Program launched, connecting UAE startups with international markets and investors. The event’s Startup Pitch Competition received over 200 applications from more than 30 countries, demonstrating growing global interest in the UAE’s innovation ecosystem.
More than 2,800 media professionals covered the event, amplifying the UAE’s industrial ambitions worldwide. Exhibitor satisfaction scored 4.05 out of 5, exceeding global averages. Visitor satisfaction was equally strong at 4.25, confirming the platform’s value as a premier industrial forum in the region.
In The End
Organizers announced the fifth edition will take place from May 4-7, 2026. Eighty percent of this year’s participants plan to return, signalling strong momentum for the UAE’s industrial growth. The next edition aims to further strengthen the country’s role as a global destination for investment and advanced manufacturing.
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