Dubai Showcases Advanced Manufacturing Ecosystem at ‘Make it in the Emirates 2026’
Strategic Participation in a Key Industrial Forum
The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) is set to highlight the emirate’s advanced manufacturing capabilities at the Dubai Pavilion during the ‘Make it in the Emirates 2026’ forum, scheduled for May 4–7 at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi. This event marks the fifth edition of the UAE’s flagship industrial forum and comes at a critical juncture for Dubai, which is demonstrating operational continuity and economic resilience. The emirate aims to solidify its status as a globally connected industrial hub.
Economic Growth and Resilience
The forum, themed ‘Advanced Industry. Emerging Stronger,’ underscores the UAE’s commitment to establishing a sustainable, technology-driven industrial base. Dubai enters this forum with a notable economic performance, having achieved a 6.4% GDP growth in Q4 2025, culminating in a total GDP of AED 937 billion for the year. This growth trajectory highlights the emirate’s steady economic momentum, even in the face of global challenges. DET’s participation aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to more than double the manufacturing value-added output by 2033, reinforcing Dubai’s attractiveness for industrial investment.
A Gathering of Key Stakeholders
‘Make it in the Emirates’ serves as a significant platform that unites government entities, national champions, manufacturers, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The forum aims to drive tangible outcomes, including offtake commitments, investment deals, technology transfers, and strategic partnerships.
DET will present Dubai as a globally connected hub for advanced manufacturing, supported by world-class infrastructure and integrated logistics. Manufacturers in Dubai benefit from access to over 130 export destinations, facilitated by Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements and advanced customs measures that ensure reliable trade flows. The Dubai Pavilion will feature key entities such as Dubai Industrial City, National Industries Park, and the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), among others.
Insights from Leadership
His Excellency Hadi Badri, CEO of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), emphasized the proactive measures taken by Dubai’s leadership to ensure growth and stability. He noted that the manufacturing sector is diversified and technologically advanced, fully integrated into global value chains. Despite regional pressures, business continuity remains seamless across logistics, trade, and industrial operations. Through the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, the emirate is enhancing its value proposition for manufacturers, facilitating new investments and plant expansions through tailored incentive frameworks designed to improve cost competitiveness and reduce barriers to entry.
Engaging Investors and Stakeholders
The Dubai Pavilion will serve as a central platform for engaging investors, manufacturers, and stakeholders, providing insights into the emirate’s competitive advantages. DET representatives will participate in high-level discussions focused on industrial development, investment facilitation, and market expansion into and from Dubai.
As part of its participation, DET will showcase initiatives aimed at supporting industrial scale-up and export expansion. The Export Assistance Programme (EAP) will enable Dubai-based manufacturers to access international markets, while the Elite Buyer Programme will enhance Dubai’s position as a global sourcing hub. Additional initiatives, including Industry 4.0 enablement programs and In-Country Value (ICV) promotion, will further demonstrate Dubai’s commitment to advanced manufacturing technologies and local capacity building.
Strengthening National Collaboration
DET aims to foster national collaboration by working closely with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology and other stakeholders to align with the UAE’s broader national strategy. Several strategic partnerships with major entities in logistics and banking sectors are anticipated to be formalized during the forum, reflecting sustained institutional confidence in Dubai’s industrial trajectory.
A Platform for Future Growth
Building on the investment momentum of previous editions, this year’s ‘Make it in the Emirates’ forum represents a pivotal opportunity for translating D33 industrial ambitions into measurable outcomes for businesses across the emirate and beyond.
The DET pavilion will be located at stands A15 and A17 at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi. For further details about ‘Make it in the Emirates 2026’, please visit this link.
About the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)
The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) is tasked with positioning Dubai as a leading global commercial center, investment hub, and tourism destination. This aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to double the size of the emirate’s economy by 2033. DET is committed to enhancing Dubai’s diversified, innovative service-based economy, attracting global talent, and fostering a world-class business environment.
DET oversees the planning, supervision, development, and marketing of Dubai’s business and tourism sectors. It is responsible for licensing and classifying various businesses, including hotels and travel agencies. Its portfolio includes entities such as the Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC) and the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM).
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