Make it in the Emirates 2026 targets 5,000 local products with major expansion
UAE cabinet approves sweeping reforms to strengthen supply chains and manufacturing
ABU DHABI – The UAE is preparing to launch the largest edition yet of its flagship industrial platform, Make it in the Emirates (MIITE) 2026, as the country accelerates efforts to strengthen economic resilience and expand its manufacturing base.
Scheduled to take place from 4 to 7 May at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, the fifth edition arrives amid sweeping government initiatives designed to enhance competitiveness and ensure long-term industrial sustainability.
Held under the theme “Emerging Stronger”, MIITE 2026 reflects the UAE’s strategy to transform industrial policy into measurable economic outcomes. The platform is hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology in collaboration with key national partners, positioning it as a central hub for investors, manufacturers and innovators.
Strategic push
The event follows the UAE Cabinet’s approval of a comprehensive package of high-impact initiatives aimed at strengthening the industrial sector. Central to these measures is the creation of a Dh1 billion national industrial resilience fund, designed to support the localisation of vital industries, reinforce supply chains and accelerate the integration of artificial intelligence across production and operations.
The reforms also include expanding the National In-Country Value programme into a mandatory framework for all federal entities and companies with at least 25 per cent government ownership. This move is expected to direct more national spending towards local industries, reinforcing domestic manufacturing capabilities.
In addition, a new policy has been introduced to boost the presence of UAE-made goods across retail outlets and e-commerce platforms. The initiative will initially focus on essential products, including bottled water, dairy items, eggs, poultry, bread, flour, vegetable oils and seasonal agricultural produce.
Industrial vision
Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, highlighted the UAE’s continued commitment to advancing its industrial sector as a key driver of economic growth. He noted that the sector is entering a new phase, evolving from a domestic contributor to a globally competitive force supported by innovation and artificial intelligence.
According to Dr. Al Jaber, the newly approved initiatives represent a significant step forward in strengthening the country’s industrial model. By combining demand stimulation, financing access and improved decision-making capabilities, the measures are set to enhance the competitiveness of national companies while ensuring supply chain resilience.
He also emphasised the role of artificial intelligence in redefining industrial competitiveness, describing it as a key enabler for the sector’s future growth and global positioning.
Make it in the Emirates
MIITE 2026 is expected to bring together more than 1,100 exhibitors representing 12 industrial sectors, making it the largest edition to date. The platform will introduce procurement opportunities aimed at localising around 5,000 products within the UAE, further strengthening domestic production capacity.
Small and medium-sized enterprises will play a significant role, accounting for 61 per cent of exhibitors. This reflects ongoing national efforts to expand the industrial base and support the growth of local businesses.
Over four days, the event is projected to attract more than 120,000 visitors, including international investors, industry leaders and decision-makers. The scale of participation underscores the UAE’s growing influence as a global industrial hub and its ability to attract high-value investment.
Focus on innovation
Beyond exhibitions, MIITE 2026 will feature specialised platforms showcasing advancements in manufacturing and industrial technology. Areas of focus include robotics, autonomous systems and AI-powered solutions, highlighting the sector’s shift towards advanced and future-ready production models.
The event will also serve as a platform to connect stakeholders across the industrial ecosystem, from startups and SMEs to large manufacturers and investors. By facilitating partnerships and expanding procurement channels, it aims to translate national strategies into practical outcomes on the ground.
Alongside these developments, the Cabinet has approved the establishment of the National Industrial Data Committee, tasked with enhancing the collection and integration of industrial data. The initiative is expected to support faster decision-making and improve sector readiness by ensuring real-time access to strategic information.