UAE Launches AED 1 Billion National Industrial Resilience Fund at Record-Breaking Make it in the Emirates Event
Abu Dhabi, UAE – The United Arab Emirates has solidified its position as a leader in industrial development by sealing hundreds of billions of dirhams in industrial deals, investments, and commitments during the Make it in the Emirates 2026 event. This significant gathering, which took place over four days, marked the fifth and largest edition of the UAE’s flagship industrial platform, showcasing the nation’s commitment to ongoing economic growth and resilience.
Record Participation and Agreements
The event, organized by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, the ADNOC Group, and L’IMAD, attracted a record 146,329 visitors—19% more than in 2025—and featured 1,245 exhibitors across 12 sectors, utilizing 88,000 square meters at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi. More than 200 agreements were signed, covering various areas including offtakes, investments, projects, financing, and enablement programs.
His Excellency Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, emphasized the importance of resilience in his opening address, stating that the UAE does not merely endure hardships but emerges stronger from them.
AED 180 Billion in Cumulative Offtakes
During the event, Dr. Al Jaber announced a substantial AED 180 billion in cumulative offtakes projected over the next decade, which includes an additional AED 12 billion to an existing AED 168 billion pipeline. The initiative aims to localize over 5,000 products. In a significant move, TA’ZIZ revealed AED 104.6 billion in procurement and feedstock deals to bolster chemicals production. A new policy introduced by MoIAT, the Ministry of Economy and Tourism (MoET), and the National CSR Fund is expected to facilitate AED 2 billion in annual food import substitution through local production, supporting up to 200 food factories and targeting a 15–30% increase in local production capacity.
Investments Reflecting Confidence in the Sector
The event also showcased AED 48.5 billion in investments, signaling strong confidence in the industrial sector. TA’ZIZ and Alpha Dhabi Holding announced a capital investment of AED 36.7 billion in new industrial chemicals at Al Ruwais Industrial City. Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD) signed AED 2.1 billion in deals, while the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) confirmed AED 1.5 billion in support for new and expanded factories.
Additional agreements included AED 1.59 billion from Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) and AED 1 billion for a desalination plant signed by Etihad Water and Electricity. Mubadala announced AED 4.5 billion in investments, and ADNOC revealed AED 480 million across four new industrial facilities.
National Industrial Resilience Fund Launched
A key highlight of the event was the launch of the AED 1 billion National Industrial Resilience Fund (NIRF) by MoIAT and the Emirates Development Bank (EDB). This initiative aims to enhance the resilience of the industrial sector. Additionally, MoIAT secured AED 18 billion in competitive financing from Mashreq Bank, Dubai Islamic Bank, and EDB. The Ministry of Economy and Tourism also signed an AED 200 million agreement with Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) regarding intellectual property in the nuclear energy sector.
Future Projects and Industry Growth
ADNOC unveiled plans for AED 200 billion in projects over the next three years. The National In-Country Value (ICV) Program welcomed new participants, including Du, while Etihad Airways renewed its commitment. EGF entered an ICV agreement with MoIAT and ADNOC, aligning investment activity with national supply chain priorities. A dedicated ICV Day facilitated over 260 matchmaking meetings among 22 partners.
The sixth edition of Make it in the Emirates is scheduled for May 3-6, 2027, promising to continue the momentum established at this year’s event.
For further details, visit Zawya.
Read all the latest developments and breaking updates in the Latest News section.
Published on 2026-05-08 14:09:00 • By the Editorial Desk
